Renton Arts Update: Explore Vibrant Exhibits, Join Workshops, and Celebrate Community Creativity!

RMAC newsletter heading

Dragon's Delight: 5th Anniversary Celebration!

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us in celebrating the 5th anniversary of Renton's iconic rooftop dragon! Your presence illuminated our city streets with joy and creativity. Special thanks to the talented artists and performers who brought our vision to life, infusing our community with the magic of public art. Let's continue to soar together in the spirit of creativity and unity!

 

Dragon event

Erasmus's 5th anniversary celebration was a vibrant tapestry of artistic collaboration and community unity. The day commenced with the Dragon Dash 5k/10k race, setting the stage for a day filled with creativity and camaraderie. 

Downtown Renton came alive with artistic flair, featuring sidewalk chalk art by Gabrielle Abbott and a bustling pop-up market hosted by The Hatchery Co-op, showcasing local vendors. Businesses enthusiastically joined the festivities, offering specials and unique experiences to patrons, all in celebration of our beloved downtown mascot.

Attendees were enchanted by Sweet & Petite Party Designs' stunning balloon art installation and the crafts led by the Renton High School art club. Throughout the day, captivating performances by the Mutiny Mermaid Pod, Adria the Juggler, the Minstrel Darius, and the jeweled scarab belly dancers delighted audiences of all ages. Giggles Entertainment added a splash of color with their face painting, and a surprise visit from the Queen and her court added regal charm to the celebration.

A special thanks to all the artists and performance groups who contributed their talents to make the celebration truly memorable. Additionally, a heartfelt gratitude to Ted Warner for capturing the essence of the day in a photo album, which can be found on our Facebook page.

 


Art Lounge April

The Renton Art Lounge in April was a delightful journey into canvas painting led by the talented Renton artist, Richard Jahn. 

Looking ahead to May, the excitement continues with Nikky Jost taking the reins. Nikky will lead an engaging session on paint pouring at the Black River Cultural Arts Center on Wednesday, May 15th. Don't miss this opportunity to explore your artistic potential and connect with fellow art enthusiasts in a supportive and inspiring environment. Secure your spot today and embark on a colorful journey of self-expression!

 


Neighborhood Picnic

Missed our first Neighborhood Picnic of the year last weekend? Don't worry, we've got another exciting event lined up for you! Join us on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Earlington Park for the next gathering at the 2024 Community Celebrations hosted by the City's Neighborhood Program. This time, we're celebrating Bike/AAPI Month with a special theme. Mark your calendars and get ready for a fun-filled day of community, food, and festivities!

 


Upcoming Events & Opportunities


4Culture Cultural Producers Fund

Join us at the Black River Cultural Arts Center on April 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Cultural Producers Recovery Fund Application Workshop, sponsored by 4Culture. If you're a resident of King County and engaged in arts, heritage, preservation, or public arts, you qualify as a "Cultural Producer." Attend this in-person workshop to receive assistance with your application on the spot! Remember, applications are due by 5 p.m. on May 8, 2024. Don't miss this chance to secure funding for your cultural initiatives!

 


RTC Gallery Event

Explore a vibrant collection of paintings, photographs, and limited 3-dimensional art that showcase the diverse perspectives and artistic expressions of the RTC community. The show is open now through May 10 at the Culinaire Room in I-Building.

 


Look listen learn

Join Look, Listen & Learn TV for the 2nd Annual P.A.L. Playdate—an event filled with FUN, FLOWERS, and FRIENDS! This free community gathering will feature cooking, art, and movement activities, along with a kid-friendly interactive story time showcasing featured LL+L book titles. Follow Look, Listen & Learn TV on Facebook and Instagram for updates on the 2024 Fun, Flower + Friends P.A.L (Possum and Auntie Lena) Playdate. Saturday, May 4, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Family First Community Center. Registration is open—click here to sign up now! Come out and play!

 


Kettleworks

The Dragon's Return: A whimsical tale unfolds at the Dancing Dragon Inn as innkeepers spin a dragon yarn to lure heroes. But what happens when the truth is uncovered? Find out in this heartfelt musical at Carco Theatre May 3 and 4 (shows at 7 p.m.). Get tickets at kettleworksperformingarts.com.

 


Body Language Studio Ribbon Cutting

Join us for International Dance Day! The Body Language Studio invites you to a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 4 at 12 p.m. Enjoy giveaways, free classes from 1 - 3 p.m., dance performances, and a breaking battle! Celebrate community and joy through dance. Click here for event information

 


Let's Go Renton Guide

Get ready to make the most of your summer with Renton Parks and Recreation! The Let’s Go Renton! Recreation Guide is now live online at rentonwa.gov/letsgo. Discover a wealth of programs, activities, and events to fill your days with fun and excitement. Plus, registration is open for classes and activities, including a full lineup of art courses tailored for everyone from kids to seniors. Don't miss out – pack your summer full of unforgettable experiences!

 


River Days Join 2024

Attention artists and crafters! Get ready to showcase your creations at the 2024 Summer Bazaar during Renton River Days! Taking place on July 27 and 28 at the Renton Community Center, this juried show offers a fantastic opportunity to share your unique talents with the community. Whether you specialize in handmade crafts, original artwork, or one-of-a-kind creations, we welcome your participation. Booth setup is available on Friday evening and Saturday morning, with a booth fee of $200 for approximately 10x10 space. Apply now for your chance to join us and share your artistry with the world!