For emerging artists, Great Lakes–area art fairs offer some of the best opportunities to gain visibility, sell work, and connect with serious collectors—all within a manageable travel range. These events balance community support with professional exposure, making them essential stops for artists who want to grow their careers and stay active on the regional art circuit.
Here are some of the top Great Lakes art fairs to consider applying to in 2025–2026.
For the Love of Art Fair (South Bend, Indiana)
One of the region’s most artist-focused boutique shows, For the Love of Art Fair welcomes both established and emerging artists from across the Great Lakes region. Collectors from Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Kentucky attend to discover new talent and support fine art in a warm, community-driven environment.
Why Apply:
- Focus on emerging artists
- Strong mix of mediums and price points
- Engaged, supportive buyers and collectors
- Convenient, central location for artists within a 4–6-hour radius
Several artists who exhibit at For the Love of Art Fair also participate in other leading shows in the region, making it part of a well-established circuit for Midwest artists.
Apply Now – For the Love of Art Fair Call for Artists
Ann Arbor Art Fair (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
Spanning several city blocks, the Ann Arbor Art Fair is one of the largest and most respected art events in the country. Its prestige and scale make it an ideal opportunity for artists seeking major exposure.
Why Apply:
- Hundreds of thousands of attendees annually
- Excellent platform for building credibility
- Broad variety of accepted mediums and styles
Many artists who participate in Ann Arbor also exhibit at For the Love of Art Fair, creating strong continuity for those building their audience throughout the Great Lakes region.
Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff (St. Joseph, Michigan)
Located along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff attracts a sophisticated crowd of collectors and art enthusiasts from across the region. It’s a juried event known for high-quality curation and professional organization.
Why Apply:
- Excellent buyer engagement
- Beautiful lakefront setting
- Strong artist amenities and hospitality
This fair is a favorite among Michigan artists who also participate in For the Love of Art Fair, making it a natural companion event on the regional circuit.
Penrod Arts Fair (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Often called “Indiana’s Nicest Day,” the Penrod Arts Fair is one of the largest single-day art fairs in the Midwest, held on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. It attracts a diverse audience and is well-loved by artists from across Indiana and neighboring states.
Why Apply:
- Large, art-focused audience
- Excellent exposure for regional artists
- Strong local support and sales potential
Many For the Love of Art Fair exhibitors also show at Penrod, which helps them build recognition with overlapping audiences in Indiana and the Great Lakes region.
St. James Court Art Show (Louisville, Kentucky)
A long-standing favorite for artists in the Great Lakes and Kentucky regions, the St. James Court Art Show draws collectors and artists from several surrounding states. It offers a balance of prestige and community warmth that makes it a valuable stop on the fall art fair circuit.
Why Apply:
- High-quality, juried selection
- Excellent sales opportunities
- Historic neighborhood setting with loyal collectors
Several For the Love of Art Fair artists also participate in St. James Court, extending their reach to southern audiences within a short travel distance.
Tips for Applying to Great Lakes Art Fairs
- Submit professional-quality images of your work.
- Keep your booth design clean, consistent, and inviting.
- Apply early—deadlines for top shows fill quickly.
- Engage authentically with visitors—your story and process matter.
The Great Lakes region offers a thriving circuit of high-quality art fairs—each one bringing together passionate artists, loyal collectors, and supportive communities. Whether you’re seeking the large-scale visibility of Ann Arbor or the boutique atmosphere of For the Love of Art Fair, every show on this list provides meaningful opportunities to grow your career and connect with art lovers close to home.