I was in shock when I hopped out of the car with Ashley and Sarah at the corner of Fulton and Fuller on Sunday. I couldn't believe that I didn't know this wonderful arts and crafts market existed a brief 15 minutes from my house! My friend Dionel is a photographer and she had text me around 10am saying "Come visit me at the Fulton Street Artisian Market, I'll be here 11am-3pm". In addition to already being someone who gets slightly giddy just being near local art I would of course go to support one of my best friends on a beautiful fall afternoon. The market was established in 2004 and the goal is:
To be a traditional, open market that is affordable and inclusive. We want to increase the City of Grand Rapids' visibility on the emerging artist and artisan scene. Our focus is giving a high profile outlet to artists who may not otherwise be able to reach their audience.
They hit their goals dead on. The FSAM allow artists to pay $7 for an 8ft booth fee from 11am-3pm. SEVEN DOLLARS. That is so awesome. There were still a handful of booths available when we arrived at 1pm but by no means was it empty. I would guess there were between 40-50 vendor booths up so plenty of variety in craft and medium. The prices were totally reasonable, the people were incredibly friendly and overall it was a wonderful experience. Not to mention attending the market is a great way for local artists to connect with one another.
I wish I had known about it earlier in the summer because I certainly would have gone. The market has been running on Sundays since June 13 and the last weekend is September 26th.For $7 you really can't go wrong. You also have the option of getting a double booth for $10. I am out of town this coming weekend but I think I am going to try to attend Sunday, September 26th. I'll keep you posted if I do!
I am excited to live in a city that is promoting arts at such a basic level. Having a place to display your work on your own terms without having to pay anyone a commission is a blessing for an artist and I think it is a true gem (thanks to my beautiful friend Dionel for introducing me)!