Good news from leaders of Art on the Square, plus what’s ahead for the 2024 show
Last year, Art on the Square chose the theme “Art is the Buzz.”
The swarm of volunteers, sponsors, and over 100 artists have given Art on the Square something to buzz and boast about again in 2024: two top 10 rankings.
Art Fair Source Book placed Art on the Square in the “Top 10 Fine Art Shows,” ranking AOTS No. 9 in both the fine arts and fine craft categories.
ATX Fine Arts ranked AOTS No. 8 among “The 10 Best Art Festivals in the US for 2023.”
Art on the Square has celebrated numerous Top 10 rankings since its inception in 2001. Carol Bartle and Stephanie Dorris, co-directors of Art on the Square, were thrilled to see the show return to its top rankings.
We knew we just had to get past COVID and get our crews up and running and the results would be rewarding. What is self-evident about this show is that its volunteer spirit will not let it fail. This community has so much pride and perseverance.
Art on the Square is a juried art show. This year’s show will feature 105 artists from 35 states. Seven jurors composed of art professors, gallery/museum curators, and art specialists chose the artists. The jury process resulted in 50 new artists being invited to the show this year.
While the rankings certainly help to draw the artists, 85% of the artists that applied indicated that they heard about the show from other artists. It is the continued high-quality of the show that is the real draw. Artists and fair goers have the opportunity to interact and understand the creative process while strolling through the quaint downtown Belleville setting.
Every conversation about Art on the Square would not be complete without bragging on the volunteers and sponsors that make this event so special. The community has and continues to support the art show in so many ways from monetary donations, in-kind donations, and donations of time and ideas.
Art Cash is a simple way to support the show. Art Cash can be purchased in increments of $50.00 and serves as a pledge of community support to the artists. It also makes a great Valentines, wedding, graduation, or Mother’s Day present. If you would like to purchase Art Cash, go to Artonthesquare.com.
It is amazing how a collision of ideas and art can be a catalyst for a community. The city comes alive with possibilities and positivity that keep the community buzzing for a while.
So come down to Belleville’s Public Square from May 17th through 19th and immerse yourself into the transforming power of art.