When you are the crown jewel of all the shows put on by one promoter, you expect to see great things.
Sadly, that was not the case at this year's Port Clinton show. The art at this show is usually good and that was the case this year, for the most part, but there was art that would not have gotten in, in past years and there was nothing that was spectacular or must have.
The crowds arrived early but I didn't notice a lot of packages being carried. There was no energy at any of the booths, totally different than what I felt at Morning Glory earlier in the month. The food was much better than the usual festival because this show is combined with Taste of Highland Park. It provides a pleasant break as this is a large show and it gives you a chance to enjoy some decent food, good music and figure out what you want to go back and buy.
I spoke with a lot of artists who said they would not be back next year. The sales did not justify the high expenses of doing this show.
You hear of artists who zeroed at a show. Unless you count the food I bought, I bought nothing at this show. I can't remember the last time that happened, especially with a show that is supposed to be one of the best in the nation.
Comments
Thank you Geri! Sorry I missed you and hopefully, looking forward to seeing you next year :)!
I have never understood why people complain about that parking area. I have bought lots of things there. And it isn't a hidden area at all. Everyone knows it is there. You were busy the two times I walked past your booth so I didn't stop in. It's been a couple of years since I have seen you. I know what you mean about a lot of shows having "those" booths but that was never the case before at Port Clinton. Coconut Grove doesn't have 'those" booths and neither does Lakefront in Milwaukee. Don't think Old Town did either. So, it is possible. I am referring to the upper tier of shows. Glad you had a good show, hope to see you next year!
Hi Geri, I was there for the first time. I had been a bit concerned about my booth location (up in the parking lot area), but that was unfounded. We had traffic all weekend except for the last few hours of the show when it did get really, really slow and it was hot on Sunday... I had a good show there and I know my neighbor did too but I cannot speak for all the others (I sold multiple works off the wall and booked a great large commission work). In fact, being there alone I did not get a chance to see it all although I would have loved to. It seemed to me that there were booths there that I wondered how they got in but I have to tell you: it seems like it is that way every place I ever go so I tried not to dwell on it. There were many high quality people there too but it was an expensive show to do no doubt but I would gladly go back.