KALAMAZOO, MI.- In the summer of 1952, the first “Clothesline Art Fair” in Bronson Park, an event designed to help Kalamazoo citizens “become conscious of how things creative can enhance the joy of living,” drew 15,000 curious visitors.

Today, the KIA Art Fair is the second oldest, continuously running art fair in the nation. The 56th annual KIA Art Fair will take place Saturday, June 2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo (rain or shine). Admission to the Art Fair is free, and it is just one of numerous events that celebrate Kalamazoo’s “Super Saturday,” the unofficial kick-off of the summer season.

An estimated 60,000 people will visit the Art Fair, where 200 artist booths will feature original works from regional and national artists, hailing from Maple City, Michigan to Plant City, Florida and many points in between. Included will be paintings, prints, drawings, photography, ceramics, sculpture, fiber works, jewelry, glass and “mixed media” pieces, all available for purchase.

Participating artists are selected to exhibit through a jury process, and cash awards are given for first, second and third place. The KIA Art Fair also offers activities for kids of all ages, including the Children’s Art Yard, a special space for kids to create their own art to take home, a face-painting booth and a button factory. Bands performing on the Rotary Stage will fill the park with classical, jazz, swing and bluegrass music throughout the day. More than a dozen food vendors will provide edibles for every taste.

The KIA Art Fair is sponsored by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan, Harding’s Market, the Kalamazoo Gazette, Panopoulos Salons, AM 590 WKZO and WVFM, 106.5 FM.