So, I was an artist in Artist Alley at the Penguicon this weekend at the Westin Hotel in Southfield, MI. The Penguicon is a science fiction, open source software and gaming event. Since I am also an Extra Class ham radio operator, I felt quite at home. This was my first ever anything kind of con event. I received a lot of compliments on my work. I received a good amount of sales over the three day event. And one of the featured guests purchased my work.
So, this got me thinking of other types of events like this. Since much of my work consists of vintage Fisher Price Little People and Lego ® minifigures - so should I apply to other events like this? I know art fairs have been good to me, but a little extra income on those off weeks when I am not at an art fair and some sort of con-event where everyone understands my work...
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Oh yes! I'd love to do it again if Judy Foley lets me in again...
Does that mean everyone participating is a con artist?
Scott, I think you should absolutely do that event again. Do it for fun. Have a great time.
But I do have to ask, why is it called a con? What is a con?
Hi, Scott. So you've gotten into cons, eh? I was a Guest of Honor last weekend with ConStellation V at Lincoln, NE and it was a blast. I've been exhibiting in fantasy & science fiction conventions since 1999 when I started with World Fantasy Convention at Providence, RI. I've been in a number of these since then, including art shows at four WorldCons, three World Horror Cons, four World Fantasy Cons, four San Diego International ComicCons (Artist Alley), and other regional and local cons throughout USA & Canada. I was slated to feature at 2003 DragonCon, but a last minute change in schedule caused me to cancel that and I've not been able to schedule a trip to Atlanta in August since.
If you have any specific questions, ask away. I'll be happy to answer for you whatever I can. WOOHOO!
I know a couple who do really well at cons. Their work is kinda industrial(jewelry) but not really sci-fi themed. I was asked by one of the cons here to do their show, but I haven't yet as it is always 4th of July weekend and i'm not sure if I want to commit to something that weekend. But that seems like it would be a great place for your work!
Hey, if your work sells there and you feel you are getting a good price for it, I would say go ahead and do it. The whole purpose of creating your work is to sell it. What difference does it make where you sell it? Plus, you have fun at those events, right?