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Art Shows
I do oil painting, mostly still life, portraiture, realism. I was thinking of going to and trying to sell my art at an Art In the Park in a near by town. The show is two days long. This is be my first time and I would like to hear from those of you that have done some kind of festive, art show etc.
1- What quantity of art did you do for the show?
2- Was the show worth it? Did you sell some or none?
3- There are start up expenses. A 10 x 10 tent, having your art photographed for the submission and a web site, business cards, travel, hotels room. If I broke even I think that would mean success.
All words of wisdom are very welcome.
1- What quantity of art did you do for the show?
2- Was the show worth it? Did you sell some or none?
3- There are start up expenses. A 10 x 10 tent, having your art photographed for the submission and a web site, business cards, travel, hotels room. If I broke even I think that would mean success.
All words of wisdom are very welcome.
Comments
A good idea is to attend a few art shows. Take a camera and notebook. Talk to the stall holders or exhibitors.
We discussed art art show participation here;
http://forum.drawmixpaint.com/discussion/8330/participating-in-a-summer-art-festival#latest
Denis
Since you have never done one before, I would definitely not spend money on a hotel or travel. Unless you are supremely confident your work will sell. I really think you should start small - with fairs within (close) driving distance.
There are probably strong opinions about this, but I would consider photographing your work yourself. Once you start making money, then you can pay a professional to do it. There are tutorials on how to do it.
Whatever you decide, good luck!
for your first show you could also try renting some of the equipments, like panels, tents, etc... unless you know you will be doing it every year and think its wiser to invest by buying....
I use square all the time with my vacation rental business - have never heard of someone not being able to use it - you should be able to get $1,000 worth of free processing with that link - it has even worked for European friends of mine who set up an account. https://squareup.com/i/JULIANNART That little card reader is invaluable at art fairs. I don't understand why you cant set up a square account? that's a huge bummer.
@Onerom1945 fairs are very hard work, exhausting physically and emotionally but can be fun and a great experience. I highly recommend having some smaller works that are reasonably priced for the general public - I sell a ton of 2x3 little oil paintings with little easels - if not for the smaller items, it's difficult to make a profit unless you get lucky and someone comes in and plops down a large sum for a large painting. Good luck - you never know unless you try!
Personality is key - I see so many artists who sit in a corner and look at their cell phone in their booth all day and wonder why no one comes in and stays - people want to engage - if you're not an extravert or friendly, I highly suggest having a partner who is. Patrons want to feel a connection to the artist - the story.