So this is my first year trying to do a lot of art fairs. I have either been accepted or waitlisted to all but one show I applied for. Which is good and bad, because I don't know exactly what to plan for. I have mostly planned my scedule around they shows I was accepted into, but I was waitlisted for Belleville and that could really change how my spring goes. I decided to keep that weekend open just in case, since there were no other big shows I was considering that weekend and I already had three other shows around the same time.
So my question is, generally, what are the odds? I don't imagine it a show that many will pass on if they get in, but since I am in town I will be able to do the show last minute if needs be. They didn't tell me at all what position I am in on the list. But what do you find are the odds of getting in from the waitlist of a big show like Belleville?
Replies
My first 2 years doing shows I got off of no wait lists, but recently I have gotten off most of them. If you really want to get off the wait list and into the show, actively pursue it. If it's a show I really want to do I will contact the show every few weeks by email or by phone. Ask if there is an order to the waitlist and if there is, what is your number. Also, find out the date that artists have to accept or decline and then pay for the show. That may be a good time to call and see if there is an opening. A couple times I have shown up to the show the morning of set-up just before the artists were due to arrive. I introduced myself to the director, gave him/her my card and asked if I could get a spot if there was a no-show. This worked both times i tried it. If you do this you may want to tip off the show organizers that you are doing this and ask where to show up and at what time.
This works for some shows. Others expressly prohibit it in the show rules and regs.
Good point, reading the rules first usually helps. :+)
Gas prices may affect some people coming from a long way so there may be a better chance this year. Your being able to do the show at the last minute may help you. I got into a show close to me that way. I informed them several times that they could let me know as late as 12:00 (set up time) that day and I would be there. The last email I sent was the Tuesday before the show and they let me in. Just let them know a few times without harassing that you are ready and willing to do the show.
I was thinking of doing that very thing Allison. I was going to get my things packed up the day before just in case.
Not good. Belleville is actually a very small show with good sales (usually) and I would imagine that anyone who got in would do their best to be there.