Field Notes: Saint Kate’s Holiday Marketplace and 20 Ton Studios Open Studios Holiday Sale

Frank Juárez

Yesterday we drove to Milwaukee to check out a couple of holiday marketplaces, which are popular throughout the state this time of year. Two places we visited were Saint Kate’s Holiday Marketplace downtown Milwaukee and 20 Ton Studios on the north side of Milwaukee. Saint Kate was transformed into a wonderland of artistic creations ranging from ceramics to jewelry, 3D printed products to paintings, and wearable arts to photography. 125 vendors were sprinkled throughout the first floor, The Arc Theatre, foyer, and the Grand Ballroom. The place was full of holiday spirit.

Afterwards, we headed to 20 Ton Studios. I love experiencing new creative spaces such as this former Milwaukee Electric Railway and Light Company (TMERL) building built in 1911. It closed in 1981. From 1981 to 2015 it housed multiple businesses until the 20 Ton Studios collective purchased it in 2016. This space is utilized as artist studios, exhibition space, metal and wood workshops, screen printing, photography, and social events such as their annual open studios. A lot of history still remains in this space such as original tiles, 20 Ton crane, and signage.

Although these events bring people from all walks of life, let’s remember that the vendors/exhibitors are working artists seeking opportunities to sustain their practices. Let’s support them by purchasing unique, original and creative works as gifts or even for ourselves.

Here are a couple of purchases.

Saint Kate’s Holiday Marketplace

Ends December 12, 4pm

20 Ton Studios Open Studios Holiday Sale

Ends December 11, but you can check them out at www.20tonstudios.com