Spring Art Show

Spring events are happening in Greater Cleveland even though spring hasn’t quite committed to staying here yet.

Some outdoor events have had to be altered because of bad weather, but one show that will go on is this weekend in Lakewood. The Spring Art Show & Open Studios at Screw Factory Artists Lofts will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Two things fit CLE on the Cheap’s criteria: free admission and free parking. Apparently, someone is running a scam selling tickets to the show. Organizers have put the word out that there is no charge to attend or park on site and no tickets are needed for admission.

Here you can get idea of the goods that will be for sale. Often the people who made those goods are selling them at the show and are happy to answer your questions. I’m often stunned by the amount of talent in our region and I find it a real treat to talk with the artists about what they have made.

I have attended a similar event at the Screw Factory in December the past few years and found several gifts for Christmas. I imagine the offerings will be different for a spring-themed show, but I’ll bet it won’t be hard to find gifts to buy — for someone else or yourself.

A few pointers:

• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll do a fair amount of walking if you want to see everything that’s for sale on multiple floors. There are stairs, but I don’t believe there are elevators, and there aren’t many places to sit down.
• Bring cash, preferably small bills. Most vendors accept credit cards, but occasionally you’ll find one who doesn’t.
• Bring a reusable shopping bag. It’s easier to carry all your purchases in one big bag. See item above about walking.
• Be patient. The parking lot is large, but it can fill up quickly, especially on Saturdays. People come and go throughout the show, though, and I’ve found they’re good about signaling other drivers when they’re vacating a parking spot.