MARYSVILLE — Marysville’s Third Street merchants took the time to invite local artists to help them create an “Artful Third Street” June 27.

From noon until 5:30 p.m., those strolling along Third Street had a chance to talk to artists, and watch them create new works. Artist and art teacher Janet Myer painted on the sidewalk, and offered passersby brushes and paint to contribute to a “community canvas,” while a similar crowd gathered to watch Gene Cyrus paint in Carr’s Hardware.

“I love to watch murder mysteries and paint,” Myer said. “Each painting is like a whodunnit.”

“Janet was the biggest hit,” said Mary Burns, owner of the Bookworks on Third Street, whose in-store gallery displays and sells the work of the local artists who took part in “Artful Third Street.” “The merchants like how the street feels when folks are meandering among the stores rather than merely going to a destination store. With an event like this we see people who don’t normally come into our shops, for whatever reasons. It isn’t all about the sales, but it’s about the experience.”

Looking ahead, Burns reminded the public that Marysville’s 26th annual HomeGrown Festival is accepting applications for vendors. This outdoor event is also located on Third Street, and takes place Aug. 14-15. This is a non-commercial event, accepting only quality handmade arts and craftwork, produce, plants and flowers.

For an application or further information, contact Burns via e-mail at bookworks@verizon.net, or by phone at 360-659-4997.