Kew Gardens Community Arts Day - Annual Art Festival
Annual community arts festival showcasing local artists' work with 35+ vendor spots, live music, and creative activities in Kew Gardens, Queens.
The Kew Gardens Community Arts Day (KGCAD) is an annual celebration that has been supporting local artisans for 13 years. Held at Austin's Ale House outdoor patio on Austin Street, this community festival welcomes 35+ artists to showcase their work to hundreds of attendees. The event features a diverse range of artistic mediums including illustrations, jewelry, greeting cards, art prints, and other handmade creations. Artists participate from both Kew Gardens and other NYC neighborhoods, creating a vibrant marketplace for creative expression. The festival also includes live music performances staged at Kew Gardens Cinema, sidewalk chalk art activities, and other creative programming. Co-founded by Carol Lacks and Anthony Mavilia, the event emphasizes community building and provides crucial exposure for local artists. Past participants include illustrators, mural project coordinators, greeting card designers, and various craftspeople. The festival typically takes place in late September, marking the end of summer with artistic celebration. This opportunity is particularly valuable for Queens-based artists seeking to connect with their local community, sell their work directly to neighbors, and participate in a well-established arts tradition. The supportive environment fostered by the organizers has created what many vendors describe as a 'family' atmosphere that strengthens community ties and promotes local creative economy.
How to Apply
1. Step 1: Contact co-founders Carol Lacks and Anthony Mavilia to inquire about participation in next year's event
2. Step 2: Prepare a portfolio of artwork suitable for outdoor vendor display and direct sales
3. Step 3: Monitor QNS.com and local Kew Gardens community announcements for application details for the next annual event
Application & Contact
Contact: Co-founders: Carol Lacks and Anthony Mavilia (specific contact details not provided)
Source: https://qns.com/2025/09/hundreds-kew-gardens-community-arts-day/