The Art of Buying Local: Starting and Growing Your Art Collection

July 10, 2024

Summer is here, and it brings with it a Madison favorite, the Dane County Farmers’ Market on the Square. The vibrant stalls are filled with fresh, colorful produce, the friendly farmers are eager to share their stories, and the feeling of community is powerful as you select the perfect items for your meal. Just like those market finds nourish your body and soul, local art enriches your life with creativity and authenticity.

This season marks Overture’s 20th Anniversary, and we're celebrating 20 years of supporting and sharing local and regional art! Why not treat yourself to the “farm-to-table" experience by purchasing from local artists and galleries and bringing their unique creations into your home? Here are three reasons to buy local and original artwork this season.

1. Boost your local art economy and environment

Shopping locally isn’t just good for your soul, it’s great for the economy and the environment. When you buy art locally, your money goes directly to the artists, galleries and small businesses, sustaining their livelihoods and keeping the local economy vibrant. Investing in the arts can lead to more support and funding for projects that enrich the cultural landscape. Many people assume that original artwork is out of their budget, but local art often includes options at various price points.

Local art purchases also reduce the need for shipping, which lowers carbon emissions and material waste compared to mass-produced art from distant locations. Feel free to ask where the artists are from and define how "local" you want your purchases to be. Supporting artists from your immediate community or the wider region still makes a significant impact. Many artists also use sustainable and eco-friendly materials, methods and processes in their art, inspired by their own surroundings and environment.

2. Add a unique and personal touch to your space

Local artwork can transform your home or workspace, adding uniqueness and personality. Art can elevate your mood and serve as a great conversation starter. Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a charming small artwork, your collection will reflect your personality and spark interesting discussions. Unlike mass-produced items, local art often boasts higher quality and craftsmanship. Plus, these pieces are usually one-of-a-kind, making your collection truly unique.

One of the joys of buying local art is meeting the artist and learning the story behind the piece. This connection can add sentimental value and a deeper appreciation for your purchase. Building a relationship with local artists can lead to commissioning custom pieces, tailored to your tastes. Whether your collection is all mass-produced art or a mix, you'll develop an eye for what resonates with you and your space, and perhaps grow more inclined to support local talent.

3. Engage with your community

Supporting local art fosters community engagement and cultural enrichment. Engaging with artists, galleries and festival organizations allows you to connect with your neighbors and fellow Madisonians. Art galleries frequently host events and exhibitions, providing opportunities to meet artists and other art enthusiasts. These gatherings are excellent for socializing and getting to know your community better. Being a patron of the arts instills pride in contributing to the cultural development of your community. Your support helps sustain the local arts scene and encourages others to participate.

Discover Local Art

Don’t miss these upcoming art festivals in Dane County:

Art Fair on the Square
- Saturday, July 13, 9am-6pm and Sunday, July 14, 10am-5pm
- Hosted by MMoCA
Art Fair Off the Square
- Saturday, July 13, 9am-6pm and Sunday, July 14, 10am-5pm
- Hosted by Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople, Inc.
- All Wisconsin artists
Mount Horeb Art Fair
- Saturday, July 27, 9am-5pm and Sunday, July 28, 10am-4pm
Agora Art Fair
- Saturday, August 17, 10am-5pm
- All Wisconsin artists

Dane County is also home to numerous galleries that display and sell local art year-round. Some include:

Overture Galleries has art for view and purchase all year, and there is no better time than now to start or expand your art collection while supporting local artists and makers. This summer, take the opportunity to explore local art, support your community and add some unique flair to your collection. Happy art hunting!

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