The Teton Arts Council’s First Friday Art Walk is slated to kick off its fifth season with live music, local artists and new businesses all participating, weather permitting, this Friday, April 4.

“It’s looking better than ever,” said Teri McLaren, Teton Arts Council chairwoman and event host.

This first round of the Art Walk centers on finally shaking off cabin fever. McLaren intends to showcase works inspired by and created in the throws of winter blues. There will even be a book signing by a local author, a live painting demonstration by Scott Berger, winner of the Dig Driggs Plein Air Festival, and sidewalk chalking in at The Local Galleria.

“Most people are just dying to get out and mingle,” said McLaren. “In the winter, you don’t get as much opportunity to get that.”

As the snow continues to melt, more and more the street presence will grow. McLaren hopes to see musicians on every street corner and performers of all sorts as summer settles in. In the past, spectators have even been awed by fire jugglers.

“The idea is to really incorporate all forms of art,” said McLaren.

The event will run the length of Main Street from the Driggs City Center to Casual Observer on Wallace Street and encompass the store fronts and sidewalk space of Local Galleria, 3 Peaks Dinner and the Chamber of Commerce.

“We’re trying to increase street presence,” said McLaren. As business owners permit it, is helping artists and artisans to set up along Main Street.

An exhibition of high school projects will take place in the Chamber of Commerce while the work of local professionals will be on display at the Driggs’ City Center.

First Friday Art Walk will run through December from 5-8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. Sponsors include The Local Galleria, Teton Arts Council and Downtown Driggs Community Association.

This article appeared on the Teton Valley News website on April 2, 2014.