I've exhibited at various Bonita Springs Art fairs over the years, including at the mall many years ago. I've done well there in the past off and on, but never great. Two years ago was the last time I did Bonita and took home $4000. I was a happy camper. This year I did around $950. This is my poorest showing in 4 years at any show. I'm jealous of you artists who were at Gaparilla. I was wait-listed this year.
I can't complain too much because the four previous art fairs were good for me this winter and it was just a matter of time before the bottom dropped out. Not sure why I did so poorly. I just couldn't connect with this crowd.
It's a nice setting for a show, in a park in old Bonita Springs along old highway 41. The show is spread out all over the place making it confusing for patrons to navigate. There are five distinctly different areas where exhibitors put up their tents. We were in a paved parking lot near the train tracks. The furthest away area was across old 41 where police were on hand to stop traffic to allow patrons to cross. Other areas were in grass where the wind kicked up a lot of unwanted dust and debris. A nice setting, but not a great layout for an art fair.
Turnout was low at this show, and, from my perspective, was mostly retired people who had "no more wall space" or were "downsizing." My work is surrealistic with fantasy and humor thrown in. Its also digital, which could be hard for some retirees to get their head around. Whatever the reason, I didn't connect. Other artist around me seemed to do OK, so it wasn't a bust for everyone.
Another subject of discussion among us artists was the fact that this is the third Bonit Springs art fair of the winter. They have one in January and February as well. For non-retired, and non-snowbird people... actual full time residents who have jobs, they probably got their fill of art fairs with the first two. These are the people who typically buy my work. Also, Bonita is close to Naples where there are about one million art fairs over the winter months. Yes. this area is saturated with art fairs.
Anyway, I've got another "filler" art fair next weekend to round out my winter schedule. I'll be at Brooksville, a small show where I don't expect much. Nels laughed at me when I told him I'd be at Brooksville, but he laughed at Bradenton too. I did OK there. Maybe I'll do OK at Brooksville. Can't be much worse than my showing at Bonita.
Comments
Sometimes shows can be hit or miss. It is hard though when we've seen success at a show, then take a downturn, especially by that much. Thanks for sharing your story and best wishes on your other shows.
Love the truth telling as always, John. Such a fine area for high income folks, but we never did well there and could never put a finger on it. SW Florida wasn't interested in our work, regardless of the quality of the show.
Maybe it is the timing thing for you, as you said. Another reason why this area supports so many shows is that the population is always changing with the seasons, or the months, luckily bringing fresh eyes and wallets to the show.
Seems strange to have part of the show on the other side of the highway. Why would that be?