Ocean City, Md. Hosts 16th Annual Fine Arts Show at North Side Park

Arts Alive in Ocean City, Md. has evolved over its 16 year existence, each year adding new artists and attractions.

Arts Alive is Ocean City’s annual fine art show, featuring artists selling treasures, receiving ribbons and competing for $5,250 in prizes. Brenda Moore, Arts Alive event manager, says the event began on the boardwalk and moved to North Side Park in 2001. At its inception, there were 15-20 vendors. Currently, there are 90-100.

The artists and their displays are set up around the picturesque lagoon on 125th Street and the bay, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere. In addition to checking out the artists, spectators can listen to live music and enjoy lunch from Big Thunder Roadside Kitchen and Maui Wowi.

Moore says beer and wine, including Dogfish Head’s 60 Min IPA, will be available for purchase, thanks to the Art League of Ocean City.

“The Art League of Ocean City has been a big support to us!” Moore says.

All of the artists involved with the event are professionally juried and will be judged for several prizes throughout the weekend. Arts Alive awards include Best of Show, The Mayor’s Choice Award and six Judge’s Choice Awards in any of the following categories: Drawing, Sculpture, Jewelry, Glass, Furniture, Fine Wood, Ceramics, Painting, Photography, Fiber, Printmaking, and Mixed Media.

While the grown ups browse the vendors, kids can create their own art pieces.

“It’s a pretty day in the park—the location is amazing,” Moore says. “You go to art shows inside and this one is outside, around a lagoon, the park is in full bloom and it’s a great location to have the art.”

Frank Miller, director of special events for the Town of Ocean City, says there is no other event like it.

“As busy as Ocean City gets, you come a block off Coastal Highway and it is serene and tranquil, a beautiful setting for an art show,” Miller says.