To me, Rochester’s Public Market always seemed to be a natural gathering place, one of the few sites within our community where people from all backgrounds came together. I couldn’t think of a better place for aspiring artists and artisans to show their work.
By good fortune, when a local group of dedicated volunteers came together in 2005 to form the Friends of the Public Market, I eagerly joined and pitched my idea for a community arts fair to celebrate culture created in our own backyard.
After much planning and tremendous effort by volunteers, Artist Row at the Public Market was born in October 2005.
From the start, I saw the need for a community-based art fair committed to diversity, affordability and, above all, new and quality art. There were many well established fairs in the area, but none that were affordable to artists launching their careers. Similarly, many fairs charged steep admissions fees, furthering limiting the diversity of the audience. That’s why Artist Row remains free to the public and maintains very nominal entry fee for artists.
In addition to artists and artisans, Artist Row Artist Row made a commitment to feature live music, dance and theatrical performances, as well as outreach for those in need. especially the at risk youth from the neighborhoods adjacent to the market proper.
For a century people have come to the Public Market for the necessities of life. I firmly believe that these necessities encompass more than bread or produce. Art, culture, community are also the stuff of life.
Now entering its 4th year, Artist Row has continued to grow and routinely attracts crowds of 7000 or more. The number of artists participating has grown, too, increasing from 68 at the inaugural show to 129 at the most recent event.
Many artists and artisans possess the talent and the vision to create new and substantial works of art. Often the greatest barrier they face is financial. They’re simply priced out of the venues where they could gain recognition and perhaps a following.
It’s one reason that the show remains juried. In fact, since Artist Row began, its judges have included some of the more renowned members of the Rochester arts community.
I identify with the struggle of those on the fringes, or on the outside looking in. I came to art relatively late myself. I like to believe that a work speaks for itselL but realistically every work -- and every artist -- exists in a realm that includes an audience and a critical community. Artist Row may provide both to many artists for the very first time.”
I’m proud that many people feel I am the public face of Artist Row, but so much depends upon the volunteers in the Friends of the Public Market, and the core group that has adopted Artist Row as a signature event for the organization. They have worked tirelessly and diligently to make Artist Row the success it is.
I’d like to think every community can stage an event like Artist Row. I have been invited to speak regularly on the subject of public art, community and art for children and youth, and I make an effort to be available to consult with organizations and businesses on art fairs and public art.
For more information about Artist Row, visit:
