The Providence Journal / Frieda Squires
R.I. Gov. Lincoln Chafee speaks at a press conference Friday at PPAC announcing the first annual Ionafest in honor of former Arts Council chief Iona B. Dobbins.
IONA DOBBINS in 2012
On Friday, Governor Chafee and local arts leaders announced plans for "IonaFest," a statewide festival designed to showcase the talents of local artists while calling attention to the economic impact of the arts in Rhode Island.
The event, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28, honors Iona Dobbins, a longtime arts advocate who died last July.
"The arts have always played a central role in Rhode Island, back to the days of Gilbert Stuart," Chafee said. "IonaFest continues that legacy."
Intended to be held annually, IonaFest will feature a daylong series of events, including exhibits, performances and a parade through downtown Providence. For more information, visit ionafest.org.