The Asian Festival On Market Square

"The Asian Festival On Market Square" By Eric Buechel

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The Asian Festival on Market Square, Knoxville

This painting was a true joy to create, as it encapsulated the vibrant spirit and rich cultural tapestry of the festival. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and excitement as I watched the young people dressed in various anime costumes, each one meticulously crafted to reflect their favorite characters from beloved shows. It was delightful to see them acting out scenes, their enthusiasm infectious, as they posed for photos with friends and family. The day itself was notably hot and sticky, a typical summer day in Knoxville, but our group of friends managed to find plenty of shaded spots beneath the lush trees that lined Market Square. We took advantage of this natural canopy to enjoy refreshing drinks from local vendors, providing a much-needed respite from the heat while we soaked in the lively ambiance of the festival.

Of course, the food at the festival was nothing short of fantastic. The array of culinary delights available was a feast for the senses, with enticing aromas wafting through the air and colorful dishes beckoning to be sampled. From savory dumplings to sweet mochi, each bite was a delightful experience that brought us all immense joy. The festival not only celebrated Asian culture through visual arts and performances but also through its diverse culinary offerings, which we all enjoyed to the fullest. As an artist, I found this gathering to be an excellent opportunity to capture moments that would serve as inspiration for future paintings. In the past, I always had my camera ready for such events, meticulously documenting every detail. However, with the advancements in technology, particularly the impressive image quality of today’s iPhones, I have found myself relying less on my traditional camera and more on my smartphone for capturing these fleeting moments.

After returning home, I dedicated a week or two to assessing the images I had taken, carefully considering which ones could be transformed into compelling paintings. Once I chose the first image that resonated with me, I faced the next important decision: selecting the medium that would best convey the vibrant energy of the festival. Initially, I almost opted for watercolor, envisioning the fluidity and transparency that could beautifully capture the essence of the scene. However, after starting my preliminary sketches, I quickly realized that oil paint would be more suitable for the depth and richness I wanted to achieve in the final pieces. The texture and layering capabilities of oil paint would allow me to create a more dynamic representation of the lively atmosphere.

Ultimately, I completed four distinct paintings that each told a story of the festival, and I was thrilled to exhibit them at the Mason Fine Art Gallery in Atlanta. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and I was fortunate enough to sell all four paintings, along with four others from my collection, totaling eight paintings that found new homes with a prominent collector. This success not only validated my artistic endeavors but also encouraged me to continue exploring themes related to cultural celebrations in my work.

Looking ahead, I am excited to share that this year's festival will be held at the expansive World's Fair Park, a venue that can accommodate the significant growth the festival has experienced over the years. I am eagerly planning to attend again, with hopes of creating more festival-themed paintings, this time experimenting with watercolor to capture the vibrant scenes and emotions in a new light. The opportunity to immerse myself in the festival atmosphere once more, surrounded by art, food, and the joyous spirit of the community, is something I greatly anticipate.

Asian Festival

By Eric Buechel

In the heart of a vibrant town,

Colors swirl, and laughter drowns,

Lanterns glow like stars at night,

A tapestry of cultures, pure delight.

Spices dance in the fragrant air,

From sizzling woks, aromas flare,

Silken noodles and sweet dumplings steam,

A feast of flavors, a culinary dream.

Traditional dancers, graceful and bright,

In flowing silks, they twirl in the light,

Drums beat a rhythm, a pulse of the past,

Stories of heritage, woven to last.

Artisans showcase their intricate art,

Crafted with love, each piece a part,

Of history rich, and tales untold,

In every brushstroke, a legacy bold.

Children's laughter, a joyous sound,

As they explore the wonders around,

Friendships bloom like cherry blossoms fair,

In this festival, love fills the air.

So come one, come all, let’s celebrate,

The beauty of cultures that resonate,

At the Asian Festival, together we stand,

United in spirit, hand in hand.

Eric Buechel Fine Art

P.O. Box 277

Pleasant Hill Tennessee 38578

(931) 881-7806

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