What is the Bubbler?
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library is a hub that connects artists to the community and the community to artists through free, hands-on making, exhibitions, and community-wide events.
Learn more about the Bubbler and all the programs it offers on the Bubbler's website.
You can also check out all the programming for teens and examples of projects created during that programming over on the Teen Bubbler website.
Newsletter
Get updates on innovative lectures, demonstrations, and make-and-take workshops offered by some of the most interesting makers in the area.
Featured Programs
Making Justice
Making Justice is a community-based learning program for at-risk and court-involved teens, which includes weekly art workshops and an artist-in-residence program. The program annually serves over 500 at-risk and court involved teens in collaboration with Dane County Juvenile Court Detention Center, the Dane County Juvenile Court Shelter Home, the Neighborhood Intervention Program (NIP), and The Madison Metropolitan School District.
Educator Resources
Materials and links created by Bubbler staff and gathered from external sources that have influenced how we work. Includes information on professional development and research, as well as maker kits and downloadable project guides.
Artist-in-Residence Program
The Artist-in-Residence program is designed to create opportunities for the community to connect with their creative side. It fosters emerging and established artists by providing space, materials, and connections necessary to deepen their practice, pursue new projects, and engage with the community.
Funding provided by the Friends of Madison Public Library
Projects
Collaborative projects are a core part of The Bubbler’s operations, and while most residencies, exhibitions, and events have a project component, sometimes they have a life of their own. Bubbler staff facilitate and collaborate on a variety of activities and adventures that impact our local community by inviting artists to collaborate or branching out to connect with different groups in the community,
Maker Kit Database
The Bubbler staff, artists, and community partners have developed 20+ school-aged maker kits that range from low-tech coding to foam printing to exploring maps and mazes. These portable kits travel around the city of Madison offering diverse maker experiences for all ages.
Exhibitions
Gallery spaces at Central Library include galleries on first, second, and third floor, site-specific installations, and a video art screen. Shows rotate every 2-4 months and work is juried in annually by a committee.