Experience Art-A-Whirl in Minneapolis: A Guide to the Largest Art Crawl in the U.S.
Minneapolis is a city brimming with arts and culture, and there's no better time to experience its vibrant creative scene than during Art-A-Whirl. This annual event, the largest art crawl in the United States, transforms the Northeast neighborhood into a dynamic hub of artistic expression. If you're planning a visit, VacayStayLee offers комфортабельные accommodations in the Minneapolis area, specifically in Tonka Hills off I-494 and Hwy 7 in Minnetonka, MN, providing the perfect base for your Art-A-Whirl adventure.
What is Art-A-Whirl?
Brought to you by the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA), Art-A-Whirl is a three-day celebration of art in the Northeast neighborhood of Minneapolis. This isn't just an art fair; it's an immersive experience that connects you directly with artists. With over 800 artists showcasing their work in more than 60 locations, you'll have the opportunity to meet and buy art from a diverse range of creators, including painters, jewelers, photographers, and woodcarvers.
Art-A-Whirl offers a unique glimpse into private artist studios and galleries, along with demonstrations, mini-workshops, installations, and special exhibitions. The event is free and open to the public, with local businesses throughout the area also participating with special events.
When is Art-A-Whirl?
Mark your calendars for May 16-18, 2025!
Where is Art-A-Whirl?
The event takes place in studio buildings, art galleries, home storefronts, and local businesses throughout Northeast Minneapolis. To navigate this exciting event, be sure to check the official Art-A-Whirl map.
Key Details and How to Get Around
- NEMAA Directory: Use the OnLine Directory: SHOP to find participating artists by type (artist, business, food & beverage, etc.), medium, location, and whether they are open for in-person visits or online only.
- Getting Around: Art-A-Whirl provides free trolley rides that stop at various artist locations throughout the NE Minneapolis Arts District. Check the trolley schedule for exact times and locations. Free parking is available near most artist locations and on-street parking is also available. Metro Transit offers free bus rides throughout the Art-A-Whirl weekend. Visit the EVENT WEBSITE HERE event website for detailed transportation information.
- I Bought Art Sticker: If you purchase original artwork, be sure to get an "I Bought Art" sticker! Participating local businesses offer discounts to those wearing the sticker. A list of participating businesses and their deals can be found on the NEMAA website.
- Shop Online: For those who want to start browsing or can't make it in person, check out the online shop featuring thousands of artworks by NEMAA members. Shipping and curbside pick-up options are available.
Fun Activities During Art-A-Whirl
Art-A-Whirl is more than just browsing; it's about experiencing art in action. Here are some of the unique activities you can participate in:
- Lampwork Glass Demos: Witness live lampwork glass bead-making demonstrations on the front porch studio, where artists use a torch to melt glass and create beautiful beads and small sculptures (weather permitting).
- Gelli Plate Printing Demo: Experiment with printing using Gelli Plates at the Flux Arts Building (Upstairs). Explore this exciting process using acrylic paints and simple household pattern makers to create unique designs that you can take home.
- Travel Sketching with Patricia Canney: Learn how to capture the essence of a place through travel sketching with Patricia Canney at the California Building, Studio 406. Patricia's sketches span 50 years and include locations from West Africa to Paris.
- Sock Knitting Machine Demo: See how socks are made on a hand-cranked circular sock machine at [Check Location on Event Website]. These machines, similar to those used in the early 1900s, were even used to make socks for troops during both World Wars.
Where to Stay in Minneapolis
For your Art-A-Whirl visit, VacayStayLee offers a wonderful option in the Minneapolis area. Our Tonka Hills property, located off I-494 and Hwy 7 in Minnetonka, MN, provides convenient accommodations.
- Tonka Hills Vacation Rental: Remodeled one bed/one bath, modern, cozy, and pristine clean. This location provides easy access to Northeast Minneapolis via I-494 and other major routes, allowing you to easily experience all that Art-A-Whirl and all the Twin Cities have to offer.
We invite you to book your stay with VacayStay at the Lee’s and immerse yourself in the art, culture, and excitement of Art-A-Whirl!