The City of Lakes Art Fair drew hundreds of visitors to the Bde Maka Ska lakefront this weekend, offering local artists a chance to sell their work.

​​The event marked the debut of City of Lakes Art Fair, a new celebration of local artists and food. Organized by Homespun Events, the festival aimed to make art more accessible by bringing it outdoors in the fall, turning the lake’s walking path into an open gallery. 

Ben Cooney, owner of Homespun Events, said the event is one of the only art fairs along a lake in the city. 

“I think the unique location makes it stand out, right along the shores of the lake,” Cooney said.

Cooney said the cooler temperatures of fall also set the event apart. He added that many artists preferred the location and timing of the art fair to show off their work. 

“Being in the fall gives an opportunity to extend the art fair season a bit that typically ends about a month earlier,” Cooney said.

Planning the first-year fair required multiple approvals, according to Cooney. 

“There’s a lot of parties that need to sign off on it being in a public space, the city and the park board, and we’re also using part of a private parking lot,” Cooney said. “It took quite a while to get all the approvals.” 

Local artist Nicole Houff displayed her Barbie-inspired artwork at the fair.

“I’ve been doing this for 18 years. Everything’s done in the studio,” Houff said. “I love Barbie and the ‘50s and ‘60s aesthetic, that real Americana feeling.”

Houff said she enjoyed being part of the first art fair because of the lakefront location. 

“It’s the perfect spot, great energy, people enjoy it,” Houff said. “If they have it next year, 100%, I’ll be here.”

Conney said the community turnout exceeded expectations.

“We had tens of thousands of people show up yesterday, which was a phenomenal turnout,” Cooney said. “We’re always hopeful the community is going to get behind the artists, and they absolutely did,”

Brad Johnson, a local food vendor with the Saint Paul Spice Company, said the setup went smoothly despite being a small staff. He said organizers and local law enforcement had added that extra manpower was needed.

“It’s really well organized,” Johnson said. “They communicate great, tell us exactly where to drop stuff, when to come and go. Cops locked off spots to keep the street safe.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also visited the fair, stopping by after attending the Bakken Museum’s 50th anniversary.

“We decided to swing by, check the place out,” Frey said. “I mean, you can’t beat it, it is probably the most beautiful day you could imagine.”

Frey said the turnout showed strong community interest in the arts. When asked if he would like to see more events like this, Frey said, “Bring it on.”

“People are coming out in droves to experience local artists, makers, cooks and chefs,” Frey said. “It’s a beautiful mix of products and creations that make Minneapolis unique.