This weekend's Art Fair on the Square will, weather-permitting, attract some 200,000 people to the capitol square. It is the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art's most important fundraiser (projected revenue: $2.3 million) and has become something of a Madison institution.

Started in 1959 by the Madison Art Association as a "Sidewalk Art Show," this event has grown significantly since 43 artists gathered at the Brookwood Shopping Center on Midvale Boulevard.

In her detailed release about the upcoming fair, Katie Kazan quotes several artists who continually return to the square. Key to participants are two elements -- the location and the people.
"It's a really unique, comfortable and fun show," said Debra LeAir, a ceramic artist. "The turn-out is amazing even compared to other fairs."

Attend the Art Fair on the Square between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Need more info? Try emailing artfair@mmoca.org.