The first time I went to Art Fair on the Square was probably the first time that I was living in Madison during the Summer. The summer of 1991. From my pit like sublet, I strode up there (probably for the market) and instead found the place jam packed with artists. It was heavenly. Every year since, I've made a point of trying to make an appearance, and trying to make a purchase. Even when I didn't have much money. Especially when I didn't have much money.

It is not really hard to find something cheap. I've landed on pottery, and have collected a few bowls that have served me well for many years. Pottery can be inexpensive and beautiful at the same time. I love to find pieces with lots of colors and there is a tent from the Madison Schools where student made pottery is sold. I paid $10 for a beautiful little bowl which I love.

Of course, if you have a bigger pocketbook, more will be open to you. A good option can be the silent auction. I've won some amazing things over the years by visiting the tent just before it stops taking bids on Sunday at 3. I have an original watercolor, which I got for only $30, in my bathroom. I have a pair of great dangly earrings. I have a framed print (actually several framed prints) that I found by scrambling through the silent auction tent late on Sunday, as the Fair winds down.

Art Fair OFF the Square is the little jutting out of the fair that extends off to Lake Monona, along MLK Drive. There you can find just Wisconsin Artists. And that is where you can also find a few deals. When you deal with Wisconsin artists, your money has stayed in the state, and they often have really good prices on some original and funky stuff.

When I visit Art Fair, and bring something home, I feel like I was a part of the whole scene myself, a swirling milieu of Madison pride and goodwill, and I remember that everytime I see something funky on my wall, or when I use that bowl that I picked up for a pittance.

A lot of Madison might find the Art Fair to hoity-toity, but I think it makes art accessible and fun, and I wouldn't miss it for the world.