Macon's monthly "First Friday" tradition is going to be pinker than ever in February. The Pink Poodle Parade will be the very first event of the year presented by the Think Pink Committee. This group has a number of events that will lead up to the Cherry Blossom Festival, and the first kick-off event hopes to bring Macon's artistic community together.
Melissa Macker, a representative for the art opening, spoke about the upcoming event’s origins.
“The Pink Poodle Parade is organized every year by the Think Pink Committee. The Think Pink Committee is a group of dedicated volunteers committed to supporting the Cherry Blossom Festival in collaboration with the local art community,” she said. “The painted poodles are inspired by the Cherry Blossom Festival mascot, Blossom, a pink poodle.”
Blossom is a fan favorite local mascot of the International Cherry Blossom Festival in Macon, so it is fitting that she’ll be the honorary theme for the Pink Poodle Parade.
“Thirty different local artists will be featured in this exhibit. Each artist will have a painted poodle on display, as well as a piece of original artwork hanging on the wall,” she said.
This art exhibit’s history is steeped in Macon’s history and icons. Macker explained the process that the artists took in order to create their pieces.
“Each artist chooses their own theme for their poodle, which in the past has included poodles featuring famous musicians, as well as well-known Macon landmarks,” she said.
At the opening reception for the exhibit, guests will be encouraged to vote for their favorite poodles. The entire exhibit will be open through the month of February, up until the 25th, and people can drop in at any time.
At the conclusion of the Pink Poodle Parade, the various poodles will be given out to local businesses for display during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Be sure to check out the opening reception of the Pink Poodle Parade on Friday, Feb. 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The 567 Center for Renewal located at 456 First Street. No tickets are required, and it is free entry for everyone.
Preview: Pink Poodles at February’s First Friday
