Mesquite Art Show

The Texas Mesquite Art Festival returns to San Angelo April 17-19, showcasing the best mesquite artisans.

Roger Ellison, San Angelo festival director, says artists from around the state and beyond will gather at Fort Concho for a three-day celebration of the exquisite and attractive mesquite. “Besides seeing the absolute best of mesquite, visitors will enjoy one of the largest gatherings of mesquite artisans,” Ellison says.

The festival, like mesquite wood itself, has come a long way since the first festival, held in 1992 in Fredricksburg, Texas, and is still going strong today.

Visitors will be treated to collections of sculpted wood from the world’s absolute finest mesquite craftsmen. Items range from large furniture items such as beds, dressers and chairs made entirely from mesquite, to unique craft and gift items such as beautifully turned lamps, delicate scroll work, handsome pen and pencil sets, unique Christmas tree ornaments, sturdy gun stocks, sculpted vases, and dimensionalized artwork, all carefully crafted of mesquite.

Once viewed as a nuisance, mesquite has become the darling of architects and retailers. Mesquite’s growing appeal comes in part from the high profile offered by the Texas Mesquite Association and both festivals, according to Ellison. Articles praising mesquite’s quality and value have appeared in such magazines as Texas Highways, Veranda and Fine Woodworking.

“Architects now vie to install mesquite accents in upscale homes,” Ellison says. Mantles, doors, flooring, art items, dining sets, tables, and other furniture are increasingly requested in mesquite.