2023 Chatham Art in the Park

Chatham Art in the Park

Visit Kate Gould Park this summer for a whale of a good time to see the Chatham Art in the Park on display! Decorated whale cutouts of all kinds make up this year’s Chatham Art in the Park. The annual event began in 2013 as Sharks in the Park and has at times involved mermaids, the shape of the Cape, and now whales for the last several years! The whales are one-of-a-kind pieces, beginning as Versatex cutouts compliments of Stello Construction and are then given to local artists where they evolve into unique pieces of art, each with their own creative, unique, and fun designs.

Some of this year’s Whales in the Park designs include oyster shells, sailboats, sunflowers, stained glass, lighthouses,  abstract patterns, and much more! Visitors will enjoy strolling through rows of whales, admiring the creativity and fun of the event! Enjoy picking out your favorites and admiring all the different techniques and mediums used. You can even bid on your favorite whale and could be lucky enough to take it home! The bidding for Chatham Art in the Park lasts until August 19th so be sure to check back into the site frequently to update your bid.

The event serves as a fundraiser for the Chatham Merchants Association, part of the Chamber of Commerce. The whales are sponsored by a business or local organization and decorated by skilled local artists to celebrate the scenery and charm of the Cape. The whales can be seen in the park from June 23rd until August 18th. The artists receive half of the proceeds, and the other half goes to “The Chatham Merchants Association’s investment in making Chatham a wonderful and fun place in which to live, do business, stay and visit, shop, and enjoy all the attractions of this great town.” Last year’s Chatham Art in the Park auction raised a record-breaking $82,000!

While you’re out and about in Chatham, keep an eye out for the Oars in Stores, a scavenger hunt of decorated oars. Visit the Downtown Visitor Information Booth at 533 Main Street for a scavenger hunt booklet. Complete the hunt by visiting local businesses, and you can win a prize! The event is a great way to showcase the talent and creativity of Chatham while raising money to support the Merchants’ Association’s events and programming.