Make Art MKE is an outdoor event on the grounds of Mount Mary campus Directed by Lit MKE.

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The Mount Mary Starving Artists' Show was a staple in the Milwaukee art community for over 50 years and like many others, Mike Bate, the owner of local business Lit MKE, didn't want to see it go. 

Seeing an opportunity to step in and revive this long lasting art fair, Mike's vision for Make Art MKE is all about honoring the history of the Mount Mary event, while pulling in local makers of handmade goods, and a focus on supporting the surrounding neighborhood. A portion of proceeds from the 2026 art fair will go to art programming at Milwaukee German Immersion School and the revitalization of Cooper Park.

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With the guidance of re:Craft and Relic in directing Make Art MKE, Lit MKE is passionate about connecting small businesses to the community around them and is excited to help breathe new life to this art fair.

As a newer event with new, outside organizer, we want to carry on the spirit of the Starving Artists Show and fill the Mount Mary grounds once again with artists, makers and creatives, supporting one generation while inspiring the next.

We would like to thank our lead sponsor Knight Barry Title Group for making it possible to experience 165 artists gathered to show their work with the majority of their art priced under $125. El Sazon Dominicana, EZ TIKI, and DoHP Wood Fired Pizza food trucks/vendors in our Free food court. Miss Mollys Cafe serving in the lounge within the shopping center w/ Live Music from Paul and Olivia Rebek though out the day. On site Pet grooming from Cosmic Cuts and Colors sponsored by Fancy Pants Pet Grooming available for walk up pet services in the free food court area and open to the community. Art Club MKE meeting in the Lounge area of Make Art MKE assisting in exercising every persons creative side and every guest is welcome to join.

Free Parking entering into the main parking lot on 92nd street off of Burleigh coming from north and off of Center Street coming from the South.