Abstract
“To inspire meaningful change and strengthen community through visual arts” – Mission of the Krasl Art Center
“To further the mission of the Krasl Art Center by raising funds through an event grounded in the arts” –Purpose of the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff
Scope of work
The origins of The Krasl Art Center (KAC) date back to 1962 when local artists held an art exhibit along Lake Bluff Park in St. Joseph, Michigan. These artists formed the St. Joseph Art Association, and in 1979, built the 17,500 square foot art center facility. The KAC includes public galleries, studios, a wet darkroom, a gift shop, and a collection of 41 permanent sculptures. The 2021-2026 strategic plan lists six strategic goals:
1. Provide leadership for arts and culture communities to make SWMI a destination for the arts
2. Present progressive and relevant arts based exhibitions and programs as a catalyst for social transformation
3. Develop a master plan for the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff 4. Optimize income to achieve financial sustainability
5. Maximize use of current and potential facilities, grounds and virtual resources
6. Model excellence in diversity & inclusion
The art exhibit along Lake Bluff Park continues today as the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff (KAF). In 2021, the KAF had 150 artists, attracting over 14,000 attendees. Historically, the KAF was a free event, however, in 2021 a $5 admission fee was added. This fee will help cover the $130,000 in costs to host the KAF. The admission fee raised $62,077, with the remaining costs covered by artists’ fees and business sponsorships. Any remaining funds will be used to support the 2022 KAF.
This report outlines the economic impact generated by KAC and the KAF.
COVID-19 disclaimer: This economic impact study does not factor in the economic or social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ScholarWorks Citation
Glupker, Christian, "An Economic Impact Study prepared for Krasl Art Center" (2021). Other Faculty Publications. 11.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/eco_otherpubs/11
