After studying art at Murray State University, Lou Nunnelley found himself pulled in a different direction by life’s demands, putting his artistic dreams on hold. However, about eight years ago, inspiration struck him anew. He brought his passion back to life by creating the Big Four Arts Festival at Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn.
Since its inception, the Big Four Arts Festival has experienced remarkable growth in both size and popularity. It is now the most attended two-day event at Waterfront Park, drawing in a crowd of 20,000 people. The year’s event, taking place September 7 and 8, will feature the incredible talents of over 200 juried fine artists, craftspeople, jewelers, artisans, and demonstration artists. It’s a celebration of creativity and artistry not to be missed.
“About 250 to 300 different artists and artisans apply each year,” Nunnelley says. “Then in May a jury selects all the participants. We work to ensure we don’t have too many of one type of art or product represented so visitors get a wide variety.”
The Big Four Arts Festival showcases established artists and shines a spotlight on emerging talent through its Emerging Artist Program. This program aims to provide a platform for new artists to connect with patrons, and establish themselves within the vibrant Louisville arts community and beyond. Nunnelley explains that 10 artists are carefully selected each year to participate in the program. Festival organizers mentor and guide these emerging artists, helping them navigate their involvement in different art festivals and events. It’s a beautiful opportunity for budding artists to grow and thrive in the creative world.
“We counsel them on the best ways to represent their art, how to display their collection, best practices on booth setup, other art festivals around the country, and how to be chosen to participate,” Nunnelley says. “We want to show them all the opportunities they have to showcase and sell their work. I think it’s surprising to a lot of people how many artists make their livelihood by traveling to art shows around the Midwest and other parts of the country. We’re very proud of the Emerging Artist Program.”
Handmade artisans bring unique creations to the Big Four Arts Festival and offer various products for sale. Among the talented artisans are candlemakers, honey harvesters, alpaca wool product makers, CBD and hemp product sellers, local bakers, upcycled clothing creators, hot-sauce cooks, and handmade soap makers. Nunnelley emphasizes that all products must be crafted entirely from scratch for inclusion in the festival.
Music also takes center stage at the event, adding to the festive atmosphere for participants and patrons. Various music makers will take the stage throughout the two-day celebration, with this year’s lineup featuring beloved acts such as Whiskey Bent Valley Boys, Tyrone Cotton Band, and Carly Johnson.
The Big Four Arts Festival is designed to be family friendly, offering a range of hands-on activities for all ages. Children can engage in rock painting and portrait drawing, and even enjoy a petting zoo courtesy of Foggy Bottom Farm. The picturesque setting of Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn, with its tree-lined walks and stunning views of the Ohio River, adds to the festival’s allure, attracting visitors from both Kentucky and Indiana.
Food trucks serving a variety of delicious options, along with beverages including beer, wine, cocktails and mocktails, line the lawn to keep guests fueled throughout the event. Tickets for the festival can be purchased on-site during the event or through the website for $5 each, with proceeds benefiting Bridgehaven Mental Health Services.
Bridgehaven offers vital community-based outpatient programming for adults dealing with mental health challenges. Janet Patterson, the vice president of development, marketing and communications, says the organization’s commitment is to provide customized care and support tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
“Currently we provide services for about 500 people in the local community,” Patterson says. “We offer various programs such as supported employment services, anger management, independent living skills, and art therapy. Beyond that, we work to remove the stigma associated with mental illness.”
Originally, Bridgehaven began as a nonprofit vendor at the Big Four Arts Festival, with Nunnelley’s aim to make mental health resources accessible to art show attendees. Upon discovering the art therapy program offered by Bridgehaven, Nunnelley saw a natural alignment and decided to make them the primary beneficiary of the funds raised annually.
“It’s a privilege to support such a meaningful cause that combines art and mental health support in such a powerful way,” Nunnelley says.
Patterson says Bridgehaven’s art therapy program provides members with a creative outlet to express their emotions nonverbally. This form of expression helps to break down communication barriers and promote healing, while also boosting confidence. Patterson even shares a success story of one Bridgehaven member who participated in the Emerging Artist Program at the Big Four Arts Festival, showcasing the transformative power of art therapy.
