Lost in the Student Art Market

This week the Office of Student Engagement (OSE) held its biannual Student Art Market. And might I say, it was one of the best Art Markets I have attended so far. On Tuesday, April 5, and Wednesday, April 6, thirty-plus artists showcased their handcrafted, handprinted and photographed works in the SUB Ballroom. The large space provided a great opportunity for people to roam and for artists to have a decent-sized booth perfect for lots of people to flock.

“Pretty much everyone gets in. They can just apply on our CatsConnect page and they can show work as long as they qualify as an MSU affiliated individual,” Sarah Budeski, one of the organizers and print artists at the Art Market, said. Budeski summed up the mission and overall feel of the event. “The Student Art Market is a great opportunity for artists across campus — from students, to alumni, to faculty and staff — to put their work up in a sales environment where they don’t have to be there to do it, [since OSE] runs all the sales.” Budeski also explained the profit aspect of the event, mentioning that 85% goes to the artist. “It’s just a really cool way to bring the community together and also to represent artists across campus, because not just art students are in the market, but any student on campus can participate.”

There were a large variety of vendors at the event from different different disciplines. “We have a couple science majors, so that’s really cool to see. There are diverse studies in the market,” Budeski said. Alumni are welcome to participate in the sale as well. 

With the exception of more laborious works, this Art Market was rather affordable, but certainly not lacking in quality – a great combination to meet the wants and needs of the college student demographic. Whether in search of simple prints, colorful and abstract paintings or awesome upcycled and hand stitched clothing, there was something for every customer. Oh, and for the sticker fiends out there this market was heaven. I’ve never seen such an abundance of stickers in all my years. There were so many standout artists who put so much of themselves and their time into this event.

Franklin Alongi had awesome molded candles of female silhouettes and yarn balls that were adorable, colorful and affordable. Trixie’s Trinkets and Cowgirl’s Hands each sold hand beaded jewelry, and Graceful Art has some awesome abstract-design earrings.

All in all, there was no shortage of variety and amazing talent at this spring’s Student Art Market. The next time it rolls into campus make sure to participate and give some local artists some love by supporting their amazing work.