Get ready to rock and roll, GVL – Artisphere, presented by TD Bank, is just four days away. ICYMI: The annual arts + culture fest returns May 7-9, with a few key changes — like a new location, limited capacity, + the option to reserve a timeslot in advance.

Just like past years, though, Artisphere 2021 has a schedule packed full of activities + entertainment. In addition to shopping the work of 100+ local and regional artists (hello, home decor makeover), attendees can also enjoy live musical performances, art demos, crafts + activities for the kids and more.

The work of 100+ local and regional artists will be on display at Artisphere 2021. | Photo provided by Artisphere

We rounded up 7 #MustDo picks to have on your radar when heading through the festival gates:

Brushing Up with Artisphere

New this year, the Wells Fargo "Brushing Up" series will feature three artists — one each day of the festival — creating large-scale paintings from scratch. Friday’s artist will be fine artist Jessica-Scott Felder; Saturday will feature graffiti artist and muralist Nick Burns; and artist Meredith Piper will top it all off on Sunday.

Drum Percussion Studio

Don’t miss a beat. Head over to the Legacy Early College booth, where there will be drum and percussion demos, grab-and-go crafts, and four parades throughout the weekend: Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m. + 6:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m.

Kidsphere Arts & Crafts

Stop by the Spinx booth with your fam to snag a grab + go craft activity for the kids from their “Craft-o-Matic” machine.

3D Chalk Art

3D chalk artist Chris Carlson creates groovy 3D images on pavement using chalk. Each day of Artisphere, he'll create a new 6'x6' piece somewhere on the festival grounds — so be on the lookout. (Bonus points for snapping an Instagram and tagging @Artisphere + @GVLtoday.)

Glassblowing + Metalwork Demos

Throughout the festival, glassblower Ryan Gothrup and metal worker Ryan Calloway will offer live demos of their eclectic mediums at Truist Demo Row, located at the south end of the festival, just outside of the entrance to Fluor Field.

Ryan Gothrup will provide live glass blowing demos at Artisphere 2021 | Photo provided by Artisphere

Clemson University STEAM Exhibit

Students, faculty + staff from Clemson University will combine art with science, technology, engineering and math at this year’s STEAM Exhibit. The showcase will include displays, demos, and activities families can do at home.

Live music

Local musicians will take the stage throughout the weekend, with live piano, violin, trumpet + acoustic guitar performances. Plus: Large screens will be located throughout the festival site, looping recorded performances by artists from around the Upstate.

As a reminder, attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets online in advance. Ⓟ

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