St. Joseph City Commissioners have urged the Krasl Art Center to follow a “name your price” model this summer when it comes to charging admission to the Krasl Art Fair.
The event, held at Lake Bluff Park each summer, has traditionally been free to attend, but the Krasl started asking patrons for a $5 donation coming out of COVID. Discussions last year between city commissioners and Krasl leadership led to commissioners asking for a different model. That’s because the fair is held on public property.
At the city commission’s regular Monday meeting, Krasl Director Tami Fauver pitched two options to commissioners. One was to charge $5, but allow anyone free acess with no questions asked if they so request. The other option was to ask visitors to make a donation of their choice, while also allowing free admission if requested.
St. Joe Mayor Brook Thomas told us that sounds reasonable.
“I think it’s important that we are following both the legal aspects of our city policies and procedures, and I think that we are going to come to an agreement that meets both of our needs and still have a fabulous art fair,” Thomas said. “I look forward to it this summer.”
The Krasl is preparing its event application to be considered by the commission next month and wants to have the admission fee question answered before then. Commissioners urged the Krasl to proceed with the “name your price” model for patrons. The museum will be be back in February with the full event application for commissioners.
Attendees will receive wrist bands so the Krasl can keep track of attendance.
The Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff is scheduled for July 12 through July 14.
