MCAD Art Sale – Return to Magenta

I always find myself to be so lucky when I remember I live in the Twin Cities. Sure, when people think of an artsy city they think Chicago or New York, but we really are a hidden gem when it comes to art. Whether it’s performing arts, singing, music or visual art, I love it and there is always something new and exciting. 

The MCAD Art Sale is the nation’s largest college art fair, and serves as professional development for students and alumni. Cindy Theis, VP of Institutional Advancement, described it as a beloved annual event that “engages MCAD emerging artists with the wider public.” This is the 24th year this event has taken place and is a tradition that has generated close to $4 million for emerging artists. 

This art sale is held every year over Thanksgiving weekend, and over 80% of all sales go directly to the individual artists. Not only that, but the additional proceeds go toward a scholarship fund that provides vital support for creatives starting their careers. 

“On sale is affordable, one-of-a-kind artwork by talented young artists who are creating not only what’s new, but what’s next,” says Theis. 

With thousands of locals shopping the sale yearly, whether online or in-person, this is a true community event. In a normal year without a pandemic, the halls of MCAD would see on average about 3,000 guests peruse its halls. However, even a pandemic hasn’t kept art lovers away as last year transitioning to partially online they had over 13,000 guests with over 73% of the artwork sold. 

“This year, we are again hosting the sale online to keep our current students safe,” says Theis, “and we’re excited to offer shipping nationwide on select prints and eligible items. Shipping will allow our local event to be accessible to an entirely new audience and will increase exposure to our talented artists.”

The MCAD Art Sale is truly a celebration of art and young talent. There is something for everyone to find and take home. Every piece is priced at or below $1,500 and on average the press for a piece is less than $100. There is even an early access that’s available on Thursday, November 18 – 20. 

Theis continues: “Nearly 400 artists will be selling this year, with an anticipated 3,500 pieces of original artworks available in a diverse range of mediums—including paintings, prints, photographs, sculpture, furniture, toys, clothing, jewelry, accessories and more.”

For more information, visit www.mcad.edu/artsale.