The event was such a hit that it will be back in November

ATASCADERO — Art lovers of all ages hit the downtown streets of Atascadero on Friday, Sept. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m., for the first-ever A-Town Art Hop. The Art Hop was a free, self-guided art tour blending local shops and businesses with art and bringing a whole new life to Atascadero’s downtown.

The event was born when photographer Linda Macchia and Amy Beams of Traffic Way’s Golden State Goods teamed up for a group showcase at Beams’ store back in June. It got the cogs spinning, and with the addition of Erik Davison, the three got to work and created the event, which teamed up downtown Atascadero businesses and Californian artists of all kinds.

“Our goal was to foster a connection between commerce, artists, and the community where we can all thrive,” Macchia said. “A true synergy collaborating with one another. Our mission statement reflects this: The A-Town Art Hop mission is to inspire, from the Latin root meaning ‘to breathe life into,’ by connecting art, commerce, and community for the enrichment of our community.”

Downtown was bustling as 37 different businesses participated. Between those 37 shops and spaces, over 40 artists were able to showcase their work and chat about it with the locals who came through.

Photos by Rick Evans/ATNc

“I am so proud to have participated in the first Art Hop and so grateful to the event organizers and my business host, Masons. Everything was very smooth and well thought-out. You wouldn’t have guessed it was the first one,” said hand-pressed linocut artist Liz Lucas of The Verdant Studio. “From live music spread throughout town, food trucks, and a good number of businesses participating, it was a lively event. The only downside was not getting to check out more of the event myself. And the fact so many locals came out and were genuinely interested in meeting with the artists felt really special to be a part of.”

The main stage for the Art Hop’s live musical performances was on El Camino Real and featured sets from Alexander Parlee and the Ellipses, and Kris Chavez. Sarah Blackburn also played a set at Nectar and Noble. The live music just added another way for businesses and artists to collaborate.

“The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with businesses showing both openness and enthusiasm,” Macchia said. “Many eagerly joined in, with some planning their own collaborations with artists, while others appreciated our help in finding the right match. The sense of community and shared creativity has been truly inspiring. I’m deeply grateful to every business that has graciously opened their doors and believed in us to bring this event to life.”

Just about every kind of art was represented at the Art Hop, including sculpture, painting, poetry, printmaking, ceramics, and more. Macchia also added that it was a lot of fun hand-selecting and matching the artists who participated with the vibe of each business. Though most of the artists were local to San Luis Obispo County, there were artists from all over California who rolled up.

“The central question of ‘What is art?’ has guided us throughout this process,” Macchia said. “Our vision is to showcase unique approaches that celebrate all forms of creativity, honoring tradition while keeping things fresh and funky. Initially, there was some confusion, with some people thinking the Art Hop was more of a vendor pop-up event.However, our focus is on fostering a creative experience rather than just a selling opportunity.”

Both artists and shop owners stated that even though they didn’t really get to leave where they were set up for the night, they still got a chance to explore some of the other artists and businesses around them and that it was great for networking with other artists and the general public.

“While I haven’t talked to every business yet, the initial feedback is overwhelmingly positive,” Beams stated. “My shop was bustling that evening, and many customers mentioned the vibrant atmosphere downtown — exactly what we aimed for. Sales were strong, and even in the days before, artists and vendors were trying to join in at the last minute, suggesting good marketing and a promising turnout.”

The team of three behind the A-Town Art Hop is planning on hosting the event in downtown Atascadero quarterly and has the next event scheduled for Friday, Nov. 1.

If you would like to find out more or want to be a part of the next A-Town Art Hop as an artist or a business, go to atownarthop.org or email the team at atownarthop@gmail.com.

Feature Image: Cindy Albert (right) of Design De Cuisine 805 and Heidi Petersen (left) of Heidi Petersen Ceramics who makes handcrafted tableware pose for a photo at the inaugural A-Town Art Hop on Friday, Sept. 6. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN