Art by The Falls, a juried fine art and contemporary craft festival sponsored by nonprofit Valley Arts Center, returns for Chagrin Falls this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7—continuing a tradition that is more than 40 years standing.

Cigar box artist Howard Mishler.The family-friendly event provides a vivid look at the local and regional arts scene while guests enjoy the natural beauty of the Cleveland Metroparks’ Polo Field in the South Chagrin Reservation, 3814 Chagrin River Road, Moreland Hills 44022.

A variety of handmade fine art and contemporary crafts are displayed by artists from across the United States. Last year’s event drew 161 artists and performers and more than 25,000 visitors attended—making it the largest attendance of any Art by the Falls in the Art Center’s 55-year history.

Food and fun
Food vendors and live music make the event even more appealing. Saturday’s musical acts include Christopher Reynolds, Dan Holt, Brady Dean, and Jack Windsor. On Sunday, Chicago Blues Review, Triplets of Bellville, and Hip to That will take the stage.

Food truck and vendors include Cousins Maine Lobster, Wheely Good Food, Pop Culture CLE, Piccolo, Dolce, Coyne's Caribbean Coffee, Grateful Grub, Corbo's Bakery, bRaised in the CLE, Boba Fusion, Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop, and The Real Chef Food Truck.

Other delightful draws include local culinary treats, kids’ and family activities, art demonstrations, an informational area, music, art raffle, and trolley rides to downtown Chagrin Falls.

Past artists
As the event name suggests, there is never a shortage of interesting and beautiful art at Art by the Falls. Some of the highlights from previous years include:

• Children delighted by mother-daughter team Jennifer Grotjahn-Buddie and Eileen Buddie, and the whimsical creatures they create.
• Star-struck visitors admiring award-winning astrophotographer John Chumack and his photos of stars and the galaxy—many of which are published in his book, “Galactic Images.”
• Impressionist painter Don Reed displayed colorful paintings notable for their highly textured surfaces.
• Howard Mishler always steals the show with his cigar box guitars made of recycled materials and wood, along with the live music generated by these remarkable instruments.

Landscape artist Don Reed.

In 1983 Art by The Falls began with 120 exhibitors. Notable exhibitors through the years include

• Artist Tim Niewiadomski, who displayed his handcrafted bowls and delicate boxes crafted from woodturnings. He has worked in this demanding medium for more than 30 years.
• Painter Michael Miller, who produces images of rural America where he says beauty and truth lies. His award winning art is featured on the cover of “ The Clearing “ by Cassandra J. Kelly.
• South Euclid native and landscape artist Tom Hanicak sold copies of the book he wrote while living in Alaska as a U.S. Forest Service Artist in Residence in 2023, “ Field Notes: Voices of the Wilderness Tongass National Forest Alaska.”

It’s very likely that this year’s event will provide an even greater variety of things to see and do.

It’s certainly worth the trip to find out.

Thanks to the Valley Arts Center and the Chagrin History Center for their help with the background for this story.