With all this preparation for the show season I thought it would be a good time to take a look at evaluating potential art shows. First its important to know your audience. Is your work more appropriate for a small community craft fair or for a juried fine art show? For me, I know my work is just not appropriate for local craft fairs. In my part of the Midwest these shows commonly attract people looking for crafts for about $20 and under. Don't get me wrong there are some pieces that sell for more however since I make jewelry I would have to be competing with jewelry made from cheap import components selling for about $5 per piece. I don't even want to be compared to that type of jewelry. So, for me the best fit is a juried fine art show.
Once you know what is your best fit begin your research. Here is a list of things I evaluate when looking at a show.
1) Is the show indoors or outdoors?
This actually is a key factor. Do you have all the proper set up and display items necessary for either? For outdoor shows you usually have to provide your own canopy as well as all tables, display items etc. Usually a much larger investment factor. While many indoor shows provide space and at least tables. Probably a better fit if you are just starting out and trying to learn all the ins and outs of the business
2) What are the application criteria and deadlines for the show.
Do you need professional slides made? Do you need business references and an artists bio?
3) Is there a theme or preferred type of art/craft?
Is the show a contemporary show, country show, etc? Will your art fit?
4) What are the recommended price ranges for this show?
5) What are the costs involved in the show?
Booth fees, electrical fees, membership fees, parking, publicity etc. Many shows have costs above and beyond the application and booth fee. Its wise to know these before applying.
6) How are selections made? Juried, spaces assigned by date applications are received, limited number of spaces per category, free for all, etc.
7) Who are the Jurors? Professional artisans or a chairperson etc.
8) How many applications were made last year? How many total spaces are there?
9) When are selections made.
10) When are exhibitors notified? (When is your payment actually deposited?)
11) Is there a tenure for returning artists?
12) What was last years attendance? How does this compare to previous years?
13) Will the show promoters provide artisan references?
14) How many years has the show been in this location?
15) What types of advertising do the show promoters do?
16) Are there awards and incentives?
As you can see there are many things to think about. The list can be overwhelming to the new artist/crafter however the very beginning artisan probably will not be choosing the type of show that would require asking all these questions.
I would recommend that the newest artists be familiar with the local art shows. Attend the shows in your area then pick a couple to begin with. Don't be afraid to ask other artists in your area for their recommendations.
I wish you all the best of luck with your shows and business.
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Self Representing Artist Cindy Craig speaks up about the business of creating and selling glass lampwork beads.
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- Artglass Adornments
- Janesville, WI, United States
- My name is Cindy Craig. I’m a glass and jewelry artist living in a small town in Southern Wisconsin. I’m originally from the southern California but moved to Fargo ND to attend art school where I discovered the magic of glass. I’ve been making glass beads and small sculptures since 1994. Besides glass I have always been fascinated with ancient archaeology and many of my beads and sculptures show that influence. Other arts that I have explored in my career include large scale bronze sculpture, raku ceramics, re-creating early viking and anglo-saxon adornments, felting, weaving and cooking. I have to say however that since I began creating glass beads and sculptures many of my other artly pursuits have gone by the wayside. I consider myself blessed to be able to do what I love every day and to have other people appreciate my work. I can't imagine a life that would not allow me to play with glass and fire every day.