Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park will transform into a massive outdoor gallery and performance space this month during the Boston Arts Festival. Now in its 23rd year, the two-day festival showcases more than 50 local artists with dozens of booths of visual art and a stage hosting all-day music performances.

All media are represented, visitors will spot paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, ceramics and more. Artists are on-site to chat with visitors about their process and style.

On stage the two-day lineup includes Fly By Brass Band, Nicolena Cronin, Ivan Korn, Ava Valianti, In Lieu of Flowers, Tyler Casavant, Shira Laucharoen, Ty Fleischut, blindspot, Katie Dobbins and Nick Zaino.

Painter, sculptor and muralist Joseph Mushipi has participated in the festival for the last four years through rain and sun. Originally from Zambia, Mushipi paints vibrant portraits and natural scenes inspired by his African heritage. He does well selling work at the festival, but he really comes for the connection to others.

“I always look forward to the festival,” said Mushipi. “Art changes people. You never know what people are going through. I’ve seen my art transform a very sad face into so much joy and so much happiness.”

The festival dates to 2003 when Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the City of Boston’s Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events launched it to promote various open studio events happening around the city. In 2016 the festival merged with the Beacon Hill Art Walk to create the expansive festival we know today, including the addition of live music and a wider spectrum of juried and local visual artists and makers.

The Boston Arts Festival runs Sept. 12 and 13 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. It’s free to attend. Folks are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics to fully enjoy the waterfront park. Dogs are welcome and the event is rain or shine.

“Over the years this festival has taken on special meaning for all of us. It is more than just an art show; it is a celebration of the city and the incredible creative people that call it home,” said Jen Matson, Boston Arts Festival organizer. “It is incredible to be able to sit back and take it all in as families and art lovers fill the park, enjoy great live music and experience the wonder that is Boston in the summertime.”

ON THE WEB

Learn more at bostonartsfestival.org