By Brian Kamsoke

Correspondent

NORWICH – Each year the Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival attracts 14-15,000 people to East and West Parks in downtown Norwich the first weekend after Labor Day. They enjoy a free festival of juried art and music in an interactive atmosphere featuring artist demonstrations, free arts activities, a student art exhibit, a competitive poetry slam, and creative food vending.

But there is so much more that goes on “behind the scenes” in preparation for that one weekend event. And much of it couldn’t take place without the generous support of Colorscape’s partners.

“Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival is free of charge through the generosity of our many partners,” says Colorscape Chairperson Lucy Funke. “Their extensive sponsorship of the arts contributes to the quality of the cultural life in our rural area. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our many sponsors as they help further arts education, foster civic pride, expand tourism and stimulate economic development.”

“Economic development” is not something one might relate to an arts festival. But indeed, many local businesses enjoy a noticeable boost in business during the Colorscape weekend.

“We always have an increase in customer traffic during the Colorscape weekend,” says Bill Tyrrell, owner of Smith Ford, LLC, whose generous support allows for the popular Colorscape T-shirts. “Colorscape is great for the community.”