Rebel Art Fest returns with 115 South Bend Artists

The Rebel Fest highlights local creativity and talent.   

This year’s Rebel fest included 115 local artists, 15 bands and food vendors.    

Vendors say art is important to them. 

“I think these events are really important to the local art market and everybody who is here really appreciates those who came out to support,” said Lindsey Harlan, the owner Artists & The Academic Kasey Clear.

“It’s just an enjoyment thing. It’s important to people in general not just the South Bend community,” said Laurie Moore, the owner of Moore Than Portraits.

“It’s a huge art community. It’s like a brother and sisterhood, everybody has each other’s back. It’s great for networking,” said Justin Geddes, owner of JJ Spray.

“It’s a form of expression and it helps with your mental health,” said Jasmine Aldefer, owner of Knitted Moon & Crafts.

Co-founder of Rebel Art Fest Michelle Fitzgerald said this year has definitely grown with a bigger turnout compared to years past.     

“Seeing the art community in South Bend grow over the last ten years or more, it’s really important to encourage the people who are doing that work by coming out to the events that they do. Showing your support by buying their work or supporting their music. It's not only helping your neighbors, any of the dollars you’re spending on art and music, can be kept local in that community. It bolsters the whole local economy focusing on the local art scene,” Fitzgerlad said.  

Fitzgerald says next year’s fest date is still to be determined, but will be announced late next spring. Applications will then be available to those who are interested in being a vendor.