What an incredible weekend! The 2024 Lakeview East Festival of the Arts was a huge success, and we can’t thank our community enough for showing up and making it special. With beautiful weather, amazing artists, live performances, and plenty of delicious food, this year’s festival was truly something to remember.

The heart of the festival was, of course, the art. Artists from all over the world came to showcase their talent, and it was nothing short of inspiring. From paintings and sculptures to ceramics and jewelry, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Festival-goers got to meet the artists, hear the stories behind their pieces, and even take home some unique creations.

We’re thrilled to celebrate this year’s art show winners, each of whom brought something truly remarkable to the festival

Best in Show: Scott Hartley

Scott Hartley’s breathtaking watercolor paintings capture the beauty and detail of the urban world with incredible precision. His vibrant use of color and light brings urban landscapes to life, inviting viewers into picturesque scenes.

Third Place: Greta Sandquist

Greta’s abstract paintings wowed the crowd with their bold colors and rich textures. Each piece felt like it had its own energy, drawing viewers in and making them feel something deeply personal.

Second Place: Chuck Meyers

Chuck’s work is a beautiful mix of urban landscapes and plein air paintings. His ability to capture cityscapes in real time made his booth a must-visit for anyone who loves the vibrancy and character of city life.

First Place: Taylor Mazer

Taylor’s incredibly detailed black-and-white architectural drawings were a festival favorite. His pieces, which often feature quiet streets and alleyways, captured the beauty in everyday moments, and his precision had everyone talking.

This year, we were lucky to have Greta Sanquist as our featured artist. Her abstract paintings, full of life and color, captured the attention of everyone at the festival. Greta has an incredible talent for using texture and bold hues to evoke emotion, making each piece feel alive and full of movement. Her work was a true highlight of the festival, and we’re proud to have her as our 2024 featured artist.

The art wasn't the only thing people raved about – the food was just as much a part of the experience!

• El Taco Cart served up mouth-watering tacos that had people lining up for more.

• Brazilian Bowl brought a taste of South America with their delicious bowls packed with flavor.

• Clark Street Dog kept it classic with Chicago-style hot dogs and other local favorites.

• Chicago Sugar Daddy showcased something a little different from their usual sweet treats! They showcased some of their savory, authentic Filipino dishes.

With such a great variety, there was something for every craving, and it all paired perfectly with the sunny September weather. Be sure to check out our fabulous food vendors all year round!

We owe a huge thank you to our volunteers. They worked tirelessly behind the scenes, helping everything run smoothly from start to finish. Whether it was setting up, assisting artists, or keeping things organized, their hard work and dedication were what made this festival happen. We couldn't have done it without them! 

We’re proud to announce that a portion of the funds raised from this year’s Lakeview East Festival of the Arts has been donated to two wonderful organizations: the Chicago Spirit Brigade and Dignity Diner. The Chicago Spirit Brigade is a volunteer-based performance group that uses their high-energy cheer routines to raise funds for local charities. Through their dynamic performances, they bring joy to audiences while directly supporting nonprofits in our community.

Dignity Diner provides hot meals and vital support services to homeless individuals and those in need, creating a welcoming and safe environment every week. Their work helps restore dignity and hope to those who need it most, offering not just food but a sense of community.

We’re thrilled to support these organizations and their efforts to make a meaningful difference in Chicago.

As we wrap up another successful year, we’re already looking forward to next year’s festival which will be celebrating it’s 20th year! Thank you to everyone who came out, supported the artists, and made this event a true celebration of creativity and community. Until 2025!