LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Next to the first Saturday in May, the other date circled on many calendars across Kentucky is the first Friday in October. That’s when the annual St. James Court Art Show kicks off in Old Louisville.
There’s a new reason to celebrate this fan-favorite this year. The Art Show was named the #3 “Best Fine Art and Design Show in America” by Sunshine Artist magazine, just behind Columbus’ Winterfair and Denver’s Affordable Arts Festival. The list is based entirely on revenue; the St. James show is one of most profitable art festivals in the country based on artists’ reported sales in 2023.
“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized as one of the top 3 Best Fine Art and Design Show in America,” said Howard Rosenberg, Executive Director of the St. James Court Art Show. “This accolade is a testament to the incredible talent of the artists and the dedication of our team. It inspires us to continue elevating the art experience for everyone involved.” Rosenberg concluded.
The acknowledgement by Sunshine Artist magazine is more impressive when you realize the voters are artists. The magazine says it asked artists to list the top ten most profitable shows they exhibited in during 2023. Artists also shared their gross sales at each event and then the results were tabulated on a weighted scale based on four different sales levels to make sure events compete against each other fairly.
The 68th annual St. James Court Art show begins Friday, Oct. 4 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 6. The show takes place rain or shine and admission is free. Artists from across Kentucky and the country come to the show nestled in the historic Victorian homes in Old Louisville. Show organizers say visitors will discover works in 17 artistic mediums, from clay to glass to textiles. Food and drinks are also available throughout the show.