Starving Artists’ Show sees increased attendance

Mount Mary University’s Starving Artists’ Show took place Sept. 11 on campus. And even after 47 years, this annual favorite among arts lovers still generated the same level of enthusiasm and anticipation.

The outdoor show featured original artwork for $100 or less, and a portion of the proceeds builds the Alumnae Endowed Scholarship for Mount Mary students.

“We saw an increase in attendance this year, and that translates into an increase in student scholarships for this year.”

Andrea Miller

Director of Alumnae Relations

This year, the early morning rush was much like Black Friday. People brought chairs and blankets and sat outside the show grounds hours before it started, waiting for the Notre Dame Tower Bell to be rung to signal the start of the show. Some show goers made it a tradition to huddle together in lawn chairs — their coffee, breakfast and company keeping them warm and entertained from 4:30 a.m. to show time.

“We saw an increase in attendance this year, and that translates into an increase in student scholarships for this year,” said Andrea Miller, director of alumnae relations.

This year also saw more diversity in the variety and mediums of arts. Artists submit a portfolio of their work to a jury, maintaining the professional quality of the show. More than 200 local and national artists participate, and their work spans fiber art, photography, glass art, jewelry and pottery to metal art.

“We are pleased with the quality of artists,” said Miller. “There were over a dozen new, fresh faces.”