Bella Vista Arts Council Honors "Bella Vista in Bloom" Co-Directors

The Bella Vista Arts Council is proud to recognize the co-directors of "Bella Vista in Bloom"—Debra DeVilbiss, Teresa Oller, and Barbara Pelton—as part of the June 2024 Artist Spotlight program. These talented fiber artists have made significant contributions to the community through their creative efforts.

A public reception, hosted by Bella Vista Mayor John Flynn, will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, at the Gear Garden at Blowing Springs Park, 948 Blowing Springs Rd. This event will celebrate the achievements of these artists and their role in the vibrant "Bella Vista in Bloom" project.

Now in its third year, "Bella Vista in Bloom" is a temporary public art installation that will be on display until July 11. The installations can be found at several locations: the Gear Garden, Bella Vista Public Library, Bella Vista Historical Museum, the chain link fence behind Bella Vista Fire Station No. 1 facing U.S. Hwy. 71, and the Loch Lomond dog park. The colorful yarn bomb installations, created by area fiber artisans, bring bursts of creativity to the town.

Debra DeVilbiss is known for her inquisitive nature and dexterous hands, mastering various crafts from crochet to beading. Starting with finger-crocheting as a child, Debra's journey led her to freeform crochet and designing intricate patterns. As Creative Director of "Bella Vista in Bloom," she integrates her love for community art, previously participating in yarn bomb projects in Colorado and Arizona.

Teresa Oller found her passion for crochet about ten years ago. After moving to Bella Vista in 2019, she joined a local crochet group and soon became involved in "Bella Vista in Bloom." Teresa's work with the project has expanded her creative skills and showcased her love for the versatile and meditative art of crochet.

Barbara Pelton rediscovered crochet after a 40-year hiatus, inspired by the bold, colorful, and communal nature of yarn bombs. Her involvement in "Bella Vista in Bloom" has allowed her to explore new creative possibilities and contribute to this unique public art display.

To volunteer and support community art, join the "Bella Vista in Bloom" Facebook group for updates on needed items and schedules for assembly and installation. No needlework skills are required for the take-down stage, making it easy for anyone to get involved.

The Bella Vista Arts Council, established in 2016, promotes the arts in Bella Vista and recognizes local artists through the Artist Spotlight program. The council is led by Demara Titzer (President), Gina Porter, and Barbara Pelton.