Art Fairs

​This information was originally featured in the seventh edition of Creative Copy, a service of the Wisconsin Arts Board.

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Art Fairs​

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Biennials, art fairs, and art exhibitions are all events in which the primary purpose is centered on the display, or exhibiton, of art. Yet, this week, we want to focus on art fairs, and share some resources on how to best navigate them. First, what is an art fair?

Sotheby's Institute of Art describes art fairs as "vibrant worlds of opportunity for artists, gallerists, and collectors alike, offering a space for people to explore and discover art, network with others in the community, and support artists and the arts".


Art fairs typically showcase a diverse range of artworks, in size and mediums, but the fairs themselves typically take place in large venues where galleries and artists can display their art in booths or specific areas, creating mini galleries, in a way. Art fairs are typically aimed at public viewing and appreciation, and are great places for artists to directly interact with patrons, students, art collectors, gallery representatives, and other art professionals. Some art fairs also feature educational programs, talks, or seminars.


Art fairs come with a lot of variability... as an artist or gallery, you might find a lot of sucess at an art fair, or not so much. This open essay ​by Amie McNee talks about her recent experience at an art fair, and explores how "your art is worth it, even if it makes no money".


Art Fairs... in Wisconsin?​​


Wisconsin has many, many art fairs. In fact, there are many art fairs coming up in June alone (thanks to Frank at Artdose for alerting us to a few!);

Door County Contemporary Art Fair
June 5 - 8, 2025
Fish Creek, Wisconsin

ART 64
June 6-7, 2025
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Lakefront Festival of Art
June 13-15, 2025
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Arts & Peony Festival
June 13-15, 2025
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Artspire La Crosse 2025
June 14, 2025
Neenah, Wisconsin
Website

Walk in the Woods Art Fair
June 14, 2025​
St. Germain, Wisconsin

Art At The Mill
June 21, 2025
Richfield, Wisconsin

ArtJune
June 21, 2025
Baraboo, Wisconsin

Great Lakes Invitational Art Fair
June 28 - 29, 2025
Kewaunee, Wisconsin

Spring Green Arts & Crafts Fair
June 28-29, 2025
Spring Green, Wisconsin



If you want to delve deeper, and find even more art fairs in Wisconsin, our friends at Travel Wisconsin have a wonderfully robust events calendar with more information here.