Thursday, March 7th marked yet another First Thursday event in the town of Manchester, Connecticut. The "IMAGINE Main Street" events have been gaining much attention since its onset in June of 2012 and for good reason. Local interest is increasing with every subsequent event and so is its popularity. Founded by a committee of volunteers, the goal of IMAGINE Main Street is to bring a greater presence of Art and Culture to Downtown Manchester.
Providing a wonderful platform for supporting artists of all backgrounds and skill sets, IMAGINE Main Street has quickly become an event that has both participants and attendants enthusiatic for the future of the downtown area.
This once a month event has provided an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy fine arts, crafts, musical performances as well as street performers and live painting. It is truly an event that attendants can find a little something for everyone and is fun for the whole family.
Returning sponsors and vendors have included local Moonshine Distillery, Onyx Spirits Company featuring the first ultra premium moonshine to be made in New England, as well as Aruna Chocolates, locally made raw chocolate that is organic, vegan, free of refined sugars, preservatives, additives, soy, dairy and gluten.
As one can "imagine", there is much to do and see along Main Street during the First Thursday IMAGINE events, but one location not to be missed is certainly the up and coming shop and gallery space, Wicked Chic. Located at 974 Main Street, Wicked Chic has become a supportive and welcoming environment for a variety of artists. Creatively inspired shopping with art for the walls and to wear is their mantra. Patrons of the shop can find everything from fine art, handmade jewelry, vintage items and even a whole section dedicated to the art of duck tape, as well as a different visual artist featured every two weeks along the gallery wall. One of the best and most unique aspects to this shop is that the artists that exhibit there are often in the shop, providing an opportunity for patrons to engage with them and hear about their creative process.
Other must see stops along Main Street include the Pinewood Furniture store and the new Manchester Community College Gallery, MCC on Main. The restaurants along Main Street also participate in the fun by offering certain specials during the events. IMAGINE Main Street is truly an example of arts and culture showing its importance and need in the community and that community couldn't be happier it is gaining such momentum.
Comments