Uptown Whittier was transformed on Sept. 28 when the Whittier Art Crawl Festival was held in the area and community for a grand one-day art fair.

More than 150 artists were showcasing their art for guests to enjoy. The Festival was held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and attracted hundreds of art enthusiasts to experience the creativity of these artists.

Crepes and Grapes restaurant owner, Sandra Hahn, created and organized the festival along with Marie Ortiz, the owner of Majestic Marketing Creations and the Uptown Association.

The festival included many unique and very diverse artists, dance performances from various age groups, talented musicians, and amazing culinary creators. All of the artists were from Whittier or from nearby surrounding cities, allowing attendants to support their neighbors.

Booths were put up all along Greenleaf Avenue and were filled with pop-up galleries that held art pieces, photo booths, clothing, and jewelry. Many of the shops and restaurants in the area participated in the festival by hosting artwork hanging on their walls.

Everyone in their booths thought it was a great way for artists to be showcased. It was a way for them to be seen, noticed, and allowed for new clients and art admirers to be made.

The sights and sounds along the streets featured fun, creative and vibrant vibes as the aroma of food filled the air and upbeat music played in the background.

The art itself was extremely colorful and very diverse, giving something for everyone. Art themes ranged from Dia de Los Muertos, mermaids, paintings of buildings, photos of landmarks, colorful art, black and white, and art according to the artists individual mood.

The next art event in Whittier will be the upcoming exhibition “Celebrate” at The Whittier Art Gallery which will run from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1. The theme of celebrating will be highlighted by the gallery’s 75th anniversary. A birthday party will be held at the gallery on Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The artist reception for the “Celebrate” exhibition will be on Oct. 14 at City Hall from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Art will be on display at the gallery the same day from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for special night hours.

For more information, visit http://www.whittierartgallery.org/.