The City of Lakes Art Fair is set to debut in Minneapolis this October, marking a significant expansion of the city’s art fair season. Taking place at Bde Maka Ska Lake on October 11-12, 2024, the event aims to bridge the gap between the summer and winter art markets. This initiative was prompted by local artists’ need for more outdoor opportunities in the autumn months.
Nichole Showalter, events manager at Homespun Events, emphasized the need for such a fair. “Artists see a big kind of space between summer and winter markets and events, and oftentimes there aren’t many outdoor ones, particularly in Minneapolis in the autumn,” she stated. The fair has already generated excitement among the artistic community, with applications for artists, food vendors, and musicians opening last week. Interested parties have until August 15 to submit their applications.
The inaugural fair will feature approximately 140 artists from both national and local backgrounds, along with live music and food vendors. The event will take place on the northwest side of Bde Maka Ska, specifically along the lakeside paths between W. Lake and W. 32nd St., providing a picturesque backdrop for attendees.
Homespun Events is known for organizing several popular fairs, including the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Art Fair and the Edina Art Fair. The addition of the City of Lakes Art Fair reflects a growing trend to create more accessible art events throughout the year.
Reactions from artists within the summer fair circuit have been mixed. Some express enthusiasm for the additional opportunity, while others are hesitant, citing previous commitments or fatigue from the busy summer season. Among those opting to participate is Joy O’Conner, ceramicist and owner of EARTHENjoy. O’Conner, who has already participated in six art fairs this summer, sees this new event as a vital addition to her income stream. “I make so many one-off pieces. My customers know that the place they’re going to find the biggest selection from me and the newest work is always at the art fairs,” O’Conner noted.
Conversely, Sarah Butala, owner and designer of Strey Designs, specializes in handmade leather goods. While she was eager to apply for the City of Lakes Art Fair, prior travel plans will prevent her from attending this year. Butala derives about 80% of her income from art fairs and intends to apply next year. She views the fair as an opportunity to revive the spirit of the Uptown Art Fair, which has been rebranded and relocated.
“I loved the Uptown Art Fair because it wasn’t just your typical art fairgoers. It brought people from all diversities and income brackets,” Butala explained. She expressed hope that the City of Lakes Art Fair could bring back that vibrant mix of attendees, fostering an inclusive environment for both artists and visitors alike.
The City of Lakes Art Fair represents a significant endeavor to enrich Minneapolis’s cultural landscape. With the promise of a diverse array of art and community engagement, it aims to become a staple in the local art scene. As the October dates approach, anticipation builds for what could become a cherished autumn tradition in the city.