Blog

I did six of Amy's shows last year including Art at the Glen, Port Clinton, Gold Coast, Esat side Milleniuum, Barrington, and Arlington Heights.  Her shows are very well run.  The booth fees are a little high but no worse than the good shows in the east and many shows in Florida.  Art in the Glen sales were almost double last year for us.  East Side Milleniuum is a great show for sales if the weather holds.  Next to Grant Park with all the high rise apartments and businesses.  Many businesses rotate their lunch hour so their employes can see the show.  Fridays sales were great but had rain on Saturday and Sunday which kept many patrons away.  Can't do Gold Coast this year because of change in date.  It has the potential to live up to its'  previous reputation.  The other northern suburb shows can be hit or miss depending on the weather.  Barrington was 95 degres and people still came out.  Port Clinton is Port Clinton.  If you have the right product, you will sell.  Best show I have had in years.   Also Amy has a discout lodging with Extended Stay America Hotel in Buffalo Grove/Deerfield at $49-59/night.  Full kitchenette and large size rooms.  Within 20 minutes of all the northern suburb shows (Barrington, Arl. Heights, Glenview, Glenco, Buffalo Grove, Port Clinton (Highland Park), etc.  Also many great restraunts within 15 minutes of the hotel.  Great one in Buffalo Grove called the "Buffalo Restraunt".  Family owned and I guarantee you won't go away hungry and fairly priced.  It's on Lake Cook Road toward Buffalo Grove.

Sales were up for us at  each show other that East Side Milieinuum which was due to weather.

Ed Schmidt

Wooden Toys

Thanks to the auditors from AFI who came in to help select the following noteworthy blogs that appeared on the site this year. Please make your choices - up to five and email me your list as soon as possible so we can reward the winners. Email me: info@artfaircalendar.com!

Here they are:

JANUARY
1.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/late-december-letter-to-fellow
[David Hipwell: January 2, 2010 - Personal status]

2.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/kumquat-festival-2010
[Bill Sargent: January 31, 2010 - Good Information]

3.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/heres-how-im-achieving-my  
[Jackie Jacobson: January 26, 2010 - Informational]

4.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/walking-zombies-at-suncoast
[Michael Lee: January 25, 2010 - Good report]

5.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/creativeness-over-mass
[Larry Jelf: January 23, 2010 - Good commentary]

FEBRUARY
1.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/coconut-grove-2010-the-fobots - "Coconut Grove 2010 - The Fobots Perspective" Phil Crone 2/18
 
2.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/our-coconut -"Our Coconut" Bill Sargent 2/17
 
3. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/st-stephens-art-festival -  "St. Stephen's Art Festival" Greta Anthony  2/17
 
4. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/artigras-2010-is-it-the - "Is It the Weather?" Jim Parker 2/17
 
5. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/art-fest-ft-myers-lots-of - "Art Fest Ft. Myers - lots of folks, few bags, no award $$" Bert Herrera 2/8

 
6.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/crafts-on-the-river-aka-the - Geoff Coe
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/crystal-river-manatee-festival- "Crystal River Manatee Festival" Roxie Spell  2/5
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/suncoast-arts-festival-january - Jennifer Simpson 2/4

MARCH
1.    Please Talk Among Yourselves – Connie Mettler
Blog post discussed problems occurring on the board while moderator was away and suggestions for fixing.  Generated lots of discussion on readers views of problems and their solutions to fix them.
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/please-talk-amongst-yourselves

2.    Tarpon Springs: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly-R. C.  Fulwiler
Good review of show.  Gave reader a  good idea of the park set up and his problems with set up, weather, and awning problems.  Addressed the promoters problem with understanding what was meant with “Give me the
same booth as last year”.  Provoked good discussion on weather problems.
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/tarpon-springs-the-good-the

3.    Shoplifting-Pat Falk
Good blog post on a problem that all show artists are facing.  Generated good discussion on other artists experiences and their solutions.
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/shoplifting-1

4.    Gasparilla-The Good, The Bad, The Ugly-Barry Bernstein
Very informative.  Discussed several show problems such as booth location, judging from slides and loading and unloading as well as good things such as the prize money and hotels.  Generated good discussion.
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/gasparilla-reviewthe-good-the

5.    I Put Fine Art Registry Security Tags On The Back Of All My Paintings- Joseph and Sari Grove
    Very good discussion about a problem concerning all those who have work on consignment in shops or galleries.  Took us step by step.  Good discussion
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/i-put-fine-art-registry

#6 is here in case you decide to go against my wishes and pull the blog post that you did.

6.    Estro Gine Arts Show @ Miromar Outlets-Geoff Coe
Good review of show.  Discussed show problems such as lack of restrooms, confusion over weather and show closing, customer complaints about traffic and getting into show.  Also discussed good things such as promotion, staff organization and set up.
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/estero-fine-arts-show-miromar

APRIL
1. A Dream Realized - Terri Drake  April 14

2.  Copy Kats Beware - Heather Jordan April 21

3. Proving you Actually Did Make It - Walt Bennett  April 15

4.  Art and Craft Show Scam MI  Ap 15

5.  Michigan Painter Jan Dorer - Gil Dorer   April 7

MAY
1.  Surprises! Blue Crab Festival, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Heather Jordan 5/20
    Well written. What a good lesson for us all….  Attitude is everything.

2.  East Nashville Arts Fest- Martha Bennington  5/27
    Informative . . . . Love the fact that she considers it “One artist’s perspective” instead of     “This is it …these are the facts!

3.  40 Questions Craft Artist Blog Series Question #20 - Michelle Sholund  5/25
    Educational

4.  Free supplies to anyone who is interested - Christine Heisler  5/21
    This is what networking is all about.

5.  Lakefront Artist Fair, Racine, WI - Linda Anderson  5/2
    Perfect format, Great info!!

JUNE
1.  "Bad Things Happen When You're Not Where You're Supposed to Be"  - Posted by Munks on June 28, 2010 at 1:30pm
 
 What can I say, the Munks has a way with words.  This one is my favorite overall.

2.  Downtown Denver Show/ or sticking my toe back in the water - Posted by mark zurek on June 8, 2010 at 12:07pm
 
I chose this one because Mark managed to get all the important info in and made the reader enjoy it at the same time.  I especially enjoyed the people watching bit.
 
3.  Salina Kansas- Smoky Hill Riverfest Art Fair- Posted by Patricia Hecker on June 15, 2010 at 2:00pm
Ok I must confess that I only chose this one because of the comments made by the Salina Native (I suspect one of the promoters).  A very well written slap across the face.
 
4.  Artists Beware - NO art fair at Orchard Lake, MI, June 26-27 - Posted by Connie Mettler on June 21, 2010 at 11:57am
 
I really like the way you put it out there and did not try to be one bit politically correct.  Easy to get the message when it’s that forward.
 
5.  Highland Park, IL Festival of Fine Craft-Posted by geri wegner on June 28, 2010 at 2:20am

How great is it to have a shopper’s perspective. 

JULY
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/port-washington-fish-day-is-a - David Hipwell 7/29
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/discounts-and-taxes - Jackie Russo 7/29
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/jackson-hole-artist-banned-for - Connie Mettler 7/29
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/no-money-for-booth-fees-but - Richard Rothbard 7/23
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/ann-arbor-summer-art-fairs - Patricia Hecker 7/19
 
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/cherry-creek-lakefront - R. Michael Wommack 7/9

AUGUST
1.  Arts in the Gardens, Sonnenberg Gardens, Canandaigua New York-Pat Sorbini - Nicely written show review.
 2.  Brighton Fine Arts Festival, Brighton Michigan-Nancy Grimsley
Good review of show with a couple of good pictures.  Others who have done thE show also commented.
3. Bits & Pieces on Winter Park, Howard Alan Frisco & Park City art shows, maybe. Other stuff too. –Robert Leuallen  Good review of shows and Howard Alan in particular.  Generated comments from others about their experiences.
4.  Cleveland Caravan: Willoughby, Medina, Akron, Lakewood and Chardon, OH -Leo Charette- Gave good insight on smaller shows.  Lots of comments on smaller shows.
5.  From Passion to Survival-Larry Berman
Good report on a thought provoking subject.  I don’t necessarily agree with all his comments but it did generate lots of good conversation on the subject.
6th Annual Blues Festival - Robert Louallen

SEPTEMBER
1.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/the-plaza-kansas-city-a - The Plaza Kansas City - a review, R. Michael Wommack
2.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/disasters-in-atl - Disasters in ATL - Paul Flack
3. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/again-through-faith-my-life - Again Through Faith my Life continues to be blessed, Katherine McNeill 9/17
4. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/st-louis-art-fair - Bert Herrera  9/13
5. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/arts-beats-and-eats-review-or - Arts, Beats & Eats Review or Fun, fun, fun - Barry Bernstein  9/12
6. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/early-fobot-reportlongs-park - Early Fobot Report --Longs Park, Amy Flynn 9/3

OCTOBER
1. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/a-little-stupidity-in-memphis - A little stupidity in Memphis - Bonnie Blandford 10/27
2. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/memphis-river-arts-fest?xg_source=activity - Memphis River Arts Fest - Mary Beth Shaw 10/25
3.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/fly-on-the-wall - Fly on the Wall - David Plank 10/18
4.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/40-question-craft-artist-blog-263 - How do you spot re-sell at Art Fairs - Michelle Sholund  10/17
5. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/st-jamesview-from-the-inner  St. James/View from the inner court - Mark Zurek  10/4

NOVEMBER
http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/lake-mary-heathrow-festival-of
Lake Mary Heathrow Festival of the Arts
Posted by Joe Clifton on November 8, 2010 at 4:27pm (Great review)

http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/chastain-park-art-festival
Chastain Park Art Festival (Atlanta)
Posted by Melanie Rolfes on November 8, 2010 at 12:56pm (Great review)

http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/estero-fl-fine-arts-show-nov
Estero (FL) Fine Arts show, Nov. 6-7, 2010
Posted by Geoff Coe on November 8, 2010 at 12:30pm (Great review)

http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/halifax-daytona-beach-florida
Halifax - Daytona Beach, Florida
Posted by Alison Thomas on November 8, 2010 at 6:32am (Great review)

http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/mayday-underground-crafts-amp
MayDay Underground Crafts & Art Luau
Posted by Stefani Tadio on November 7, 2010 at 10:03am (Great review)

DECEMBER
1. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/did-i-really-make-a-living DID I REAlly make a living selling art? Merri Pattinian  12/11
2.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/here-is-my-tequilaelvis-what Tequila/Elvis/Meaning of Life Report - Nels Johnson 12/21
3. http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/spreading-the-good-spirit-a Spreading the good spirit a bit - Mark Zurek  12/10
4.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/cleveland-by-hand-after-a - Cleveland By Hand after a month to reflect - Judy Goskey 12/6
5.  http://www.artfairinsiders.com/profiles/blogs/wake-upsmell-the-censors - Jack Stoddart 12/5

Email me NOW - awards going to the top ten blogs....info@artfaircalendar.com

Then stay tuned for the rest of the awards -- coming soon!

Wishing everyone a happy new year and a successful 2011. Larry Berman
Digital Jury Services
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100

Our mission:
t o encourage people to purchase original fine art, and to enhance that experience by interacting with the artists who create the pieces.
 
What began as a local art event in 1994 has become the best known art festival in the region, attracting artists from across the country and from across our southern and northern borders. Each year, the festival attracts seasoned collectors as well as first-time art buyers. The event takes place in San Diego's hip and historic Little Italy district, well known for its artistic community, outstanding restaurants and picturesque streetscapes.  Filling 16 blocks of Little Italy with fine art of all kinds, many participating artists consider it their highest-grossing event of the year. 

Your registration fee includes:

• high quality 10' by 10' tents that are also 10' high. Load-in and load-out are made simple as you can drive your vehicle directly to your tent.
• A page on the Mission Federal ArtWalk web site that will remain up until 2012
• An opportunity to be considered to be one of the event's 12 Featured Artists
• Listing in ArtWalk Magazine and Event Brochure/Map 
• Featured Artists receive prominent placement in the event's publicity campaign
• Opportunity to submit news items for our monthly eGram newsletter                                       
  

Bravo to you and your team for making artwalk a wonderful event *again*. We had a blast, and the show was a success for me - even in this dicey economy.  Kudos to you and your staff for making it so.  Belinda DelPesco

2010 was a rough and tumble year for many of us.  Personally, I did 41 shows.  Way too many!  But, hey, "when times are tough... " you know the rest.  In my prime, I did 30 to 35 shows a year and made a decent middle-class living traveling and selling my photographs.  Lately, I do not feel middle-class.  I still travel (too much), but the selling of my photos has gone down.  I don't buy a new van every 4 years anymore.  My current one is 6 years old and though I haven't missed a show due to a break-down, I came really close last summer.  With a new transmission and $4200, I was able to make it to Ann Arbor and continue my schedule of shows. 

But that was last year....  2011 is going to be better.  I'm optomistic about my chances.  New work, strong jury slides and a logical schedule will put any artist back on his or her feet.  You start with your next application....

I see a bright, shinny new Sprinter in my future.

Best Wishes to all, and to all a bright, shinny New Year.

The Story:
The year was 1972. It was yet another time of unrest in our nation. A band of young artists had an idea that had shown great promise in the mountains of Vermont. Outfitted in their tie-dye T-shirts and jeans, they traveled from Mt. Snow and Stowe, VT, to the

Street Art Fair 1905 from vintagephotoarts.co

fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY. They were pursuing a venue with a potentially larger audience for their new creation, an arts and crafts fair. Unfortunately, a very skeptical fair manager informed them that he had no intention of turning his beautiful fairgrounds over "to a bunch of pot smoking hippies!" Because they had traveled a distance to get there, the manager told them that they could come back and make their "pitch" to the Ag. Society for a more favorable response, if they wished.

The young artists returned later minus the tye-dyes, minus the
aroma of musk and incense, and now outfitted in their Sunday
best. The Society members listened to their plea and responded affirmatively. Thus, the American Crafts Council brought their first event to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. That inaugural show was open to artists from thirteen east coast states. In June of 1984, Crafts at Rhinebeck was born and has remained the premier arts and crafts show in the Northeast to this day.

Call for Artists:

June 18 & 19
Rhinebeck, New York
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
180 exhibitors
Deadline: January 15
   
   Friday June 18:       9am-6pm  Set up
   Friday, June 18th    VIP Preview & Wine Tasting 6pm-8pm
   Saturday June 19    7am-9:30am Set-up
   June 18 & 19: Sat.  10am-6pm; Sun. 10am-5pm  

For nearly 35 years hundreds of creative artisans have

Dave Piper and Rick & Linda Bachman ready for the buyer

traveled across America to participate in the renowned Crafts at Rhinebeck, the finest showcase for American crafts on the East Coast. The June Show is a contemporary show that features handmade jewelry,
glass, woodwork, clothing, sculpture, ceramics and fine art presented in a comfortable indoor setting on the beautifully landscaped, Dutchess County Fairgrounds.  With nearly 10,000 in attendance, the tradition of
excellence at this famous destination continues.

The show features both indoor and outdoor spaces as well as an "Art in the Garden" exhibit area.

Be part of this legend, visit our website for more information and to download the application:  www.craftsatrhinebeck.com and join us in June.

ANY QUESTIONS?
Call  845-876-4000 from 9am-5pm EST
Fax  845-876-4003
Email: vimperati@dutchessfair.com or info@dutchessfair.com

Write to us at PO Box 389, Rhinebeck NY  12572
Physical address:  6550 Springbrook Ave, Rhinebeck NY  12572

Looking for more art fairs for your 2011 season? Visit www.callsforartists.com

This is a special edition of our Call

for Entries. Listed below are fourteen Chicago area professionally run art fairs by Amdur Productions.

Headed by Amy Amdur, these events exploded on the art fair scene 28 years ago when the Port Clinton Art Festival appeared in the affluent community of Highland Park, Illinois. Since then Amy has continued to produce and organize nationally recognized festivals in high-profile suburbs and popular metro areas.

With the addition of two new festivals, including a Winter Art Festival and the Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival, and the second year of producing the renowned Gold Coast Art Fair in its new location, Chicago's Grant Park, Amdur continues to make an indelible impact on the arts community by hosting a selection of the most desirable juried art festivals.

Amdur Staff

Amdur's hard work and unparalleled eye, coupled with a strong marketing outreach, have made Chicago a destination for artists and art buyers from the Midwest and around the world.

Take a look at these fourteen events to fill your art fair schedule and your pocketbook!

Visit the website: AmdurProductions.com for full disclosure on each of the events and apply today! Deadline January 5.

May 28 - 29
10:00am-5:00pm
Barrington, IL
140 Artists

Amdur Productions proudly kicks off its 28th season with the second annual Barrington Art Festival. Known for its grand mansions and horse farms, the affluent suburb of Barrington boasts a wealthy population with a deep appreciation for the arts. Located 36 miles northwest of Chicago, Barrington has a population of 40,000 and an average household income of $125,000.

Amy says: Wealthy, art-loving area & lots of local support! Nice downtown layout. Memorial Day Weekend (still have your Monday off). Average temperature 70.


Eastside Millennium Art Festival
June 3 - 5
10:00am-5:00pm
Chicago
150 Artists

Located blocks from Chicago's bustling Millennium Park, the Eastside Millennium Art Festival returns to downtown Chicago for its third year. More than 175,000 people visit the area daily whether for work or play at the neighboring Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Cultural Center or Millennium Park. Show opens Friday to a busy lunch crowd. $25 city permit is required.

Amy says: Just north of Millennium Park, this show boasts a great location in the heart of downtown. Chicagoans and tourists love and patronize this show. Average temperature 71

Promenade of Art - Arlington Heights
June 25 - 26

NEW! Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival
July 1 - 3
10:00am-5:00pm
Glencoe, IL
80 Artists

The Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival returns after a much missed absence. This exclusive 80 artist festival will be held July 1, 2, and 3 over the holiday weekend. Art of a botanic theme, material or use is encouraged. The Chicago Botanic Garden is located about 1/2 hour north of Chicago and is one of the top 5 visitor attractions annually in the Chicago area. Booths on grass and pavement.

Amy says: An exceptional location which attracts a discerning audience of art lovers. This year marks the return of a beloved tradition we began a decade ago. Average temperature: 74

EARLIER DATE, LONGER DAILY HOURS!
Gold Coast Art Fair
July 9 - 10
9:00am-7:00pm Chicago
400 Artists

The 54th Annual Gold Coast Art Fair returns to Chicago's Grant Park in July!

Heralded as the "granddaddy" of art festivals, this famous event draws artist and visitors from around the world. The Gold Coast Art Fair is the third oldest and one of the best attended festivals in the country! Booths are on grass and pavement. The 2011 show will feature a new, improved layout with wider aisles and longer daily show hours over the two day weekend. Flighted day before load-in makes for a relaxed setup.

Amy says: Grant Park is an incredible venue for this festival. With the lake and Chicago skyline serving as a backdrop, this Chicago venue is amazing. The location serves as a destination for tourists and Chicagoans visiting The Art Institute, Lake Michigan, Buckingham Fountain and more. Average temperature: 75.

Buffalo Grove Invitational Fine Art Festival
July 16 - 17
10:00am-5:00pm
Buffalo Grove, IL
160 Artists

The festival is held northwest of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, a community of 44,000 and home to a large Jewish community. The show offers plenty of close artist and patron parking and a history of great sales. A huge community volunteer corps provides booth-sitting and artist assistance with a smile. A $20 Village permit is required. All booths on concrete or pavement.

Amy says: All themes, all price points. Bright, contemporary art does well. The crowd also loves jewelry and wearables. Average temperature: 76

North Shore Festival of Art - Old Orchard

Glencoe Festival of Art
July 30 - 31
10:00am-5:00pm
Glencoe, IL
120 Artists

The Glencoe Festival of Art takes place in the prestigious Frank Lloyd Wright influenced community of Glencoe, Illinois, blocks from Lake Michigan in Chicago's famous North Shore area. Held downtown among boutiques and cafés, parking is close and free. The crowd is wealthy, educated and loves art. Fine art and fine craft are featured. All booths are on pavement. Held in cooperation with the Glencoe Chamber of Commerce.

Amy says: Held in an extremely wealthy community near Lake Michigan where the average home price is 1.2 million. With a highly educated crowd of discerning art lovers, all art does well here. Average temperature 75.

Art at the Glen Town Center
August 6 - 7
10:00am-5:00pm
Glenview, IL
200 Artists

Sales rank among the highest at this high quality show. Showgoers flock to this festival which is situated in a master planned community, boasting some of the finest stores in the Midwest. Festival streets are filled from opening to close with thousands of art buyers. All booths are on pavement.

Amy says: Great show, better for experienced artists. Big crowds. All art, all prices do well. Average temperature 75.

Lincolnshire Art Festival
August 13 - 14
10:00am-5:00pm
Lincolnshire, IL
130 Artists

The Lincolnshire Art Festival is situated around a tranquil fountain in an upscale community 30 minutes north of Chicago with plenty of restaurants and hotels in the area. Booths are on grass and pavement. Visitors are from the north and western suburbs. Artists' parking is free and close. The festival features all types of fine art and fine craft. Taking place at a later date in the season, the Lincolnshire Art Festival proudly celebrates its 14th year as a summer institution.

Amy says: All themes, all price points do well. Good for new artists as well as experienced artists. Average temperature 71.

Port Clinton Art Festival
August 27 - 28
10:00am-6:00pm
Highland Park,
Illinois
260 Artists

The Port Clinton Art Festival is a high-selling show located in downtown Highland Park, an upscale community 30 minutes north of Chicago. Those who attend are art savvy and have high disposable income. Only originals are allowed to be displayed in artist's booths. City permit required.

Amy says: Top fine art and fine craft only. Only for experienced artists. Average temperature 72.

Downtown Downers Grove Art Festival
Sept. 10 - 11
10:00am-5:00pm
Downers Grove,
Illinois
125 Artists

A cherished community tradition for the past 35 years, the festival will be directed by Amdur Productions for the second year. Historically a one day show, the festival now spans two days with optional set up for artists on Friday night. All types of art are featured at this festival located in a charming downtown area. All booths are on pavement.

Amy says: This festival has a great following. Art in the mid-price point does particularly well. Average temperature 68.

Highwood Last Call Art Fair
September 17 - 18
10:00am - 5:00pm
Highwood, IL
120 Artists

The Highwood Last Call Art Fair features great art at great prices. The show gives the public the chance to buy end of the season original art, left over inventory, slightly damaged, bruised and odd pieces at discounted prices. Artists decide how much to discount their work and can use festival stickers to mark work at 10% to 50% off.

Amy says: End of season opportunity for you to sell off inventory at reduced prices. Artists and/or their representatives welcome. Average temperature 63.

Winter Art Festival - NEW!
December 3 - 4
Friday noon-7pm Sat. and Sun.:
10am -5pm
Highland Park, IL
50 Artists

In response to artist demand Amdur Productions launches a new Winter Art Festival, an indoor art and fine craft show in Highland Park, IL. This show will be a small boutique show featuring about 50 artists during a preholiday weekend. All types of art will be featured with special emphasis on holiday fine art and fine craft gifts.

Amy says: Artists have been asking for a Winter Art Festival for years. Jewelry, fine art and fine craft gift items are expected to do exceptionally well. Offers artists the opportunity to return to a strong art market and a chance to reconnect with clients from the summer.

Have some fun with this cool link. Visit: www.elfyourself.com, upload a photo and dance like you haven't danced in a long time!

Let's see, should it be disco, hip hop or a mambo?

Well it has been a while, so I thought I would leave this little "bon mot" under your electronic Christmas Trees.

Recently, in Tampa, I have discovered this great little diner on Florida Avenue called Nickos.  It is an old railroad car diner run by a Greek family who does everything right.  Generous portions, cheap prices and great service.  It is frequented by undercover cops, working trademan and even an occasional artist or two.  Heck, Elvis Presley ate in this diner in 1956.

How do I know?  Because it is boldly printed on all the menus.  So today, I went in for breakfeast and sat down at the second booth in from the door.  I happened to look over where all the condiments were stored, and lo and behold, there was this little metal plaque attached to the window.  It basically  said that Elvis had sat in this very seat after one of his shows in Tampa in 1956.  It made me think a lot.  About Elvis and the life we live at being artists who sell on the street.

In 1956, Elvis was just getting started, he was a new whirlwind phenom, nobody had ever seen the likes of him before.  Justin Bieber don't have anything on Elvis, hell, he couldn't hold his pancake fork, but anyway, back to Elvis--and us.

I wondered if Elvis was experiencing a real high after his performance.  I wondered if it was anything akin to how I felt back in 1999 when I almost sold everything I had at the Kansas City Plaza Art Fair (don't worry, this blog is not going to be all about me--this just served as an apt metaphor).  I wondered if he ever had to deal with daily rejection like we experience when we get our little electronic blips on the internet which tell us "thumbs up! or thumbs down!."  Back in the days when we all got those SASE letters in the mail, remember that.  Yeah, you could feel for slides in them, right away, you knew you were out.  Except a few shows could still fake you out.  The slides would be in there along with a much coveted letter that began with "Congragulations."

One of the coolest ways you knew you were in, was when you got an SASE from Harvey and Audrey.  They were the original founders and promoters for the Cain Park art fair, in Cleveland, back in the 80's and into the early 90's until their passing on.  Anyways, what made their response so cool was how they sent the SASE.  If you were accepted, Harvey would write above your name on the SASE,"Good News for" Nels Johnson, or Munks or whoever it was addressed to.  We don't get those little highs anymore, I kind of miss them.

As I sat eating my plate full of homefries with perfectly cooked onions along with the cuban toast which only costs ten-cents extra, I thought some more about Elvis.  I said to myself,"Heck, he was more famous than I will ever be, but I outlasted him.  I am still trucking along making my art, doing my 35 shows a year, still playing golf and still eating and drinking good."  There is lot to be said for that.  I figure, with luck, I got maybe 15 more years in the biz.  That equates to about 325 more possible shows, give or take a few.  I wonder how many of them could be a Cherry Creek, A Grove, A Kansas City--heck, maybe even a St. Louis or two.  You gotta have hopes and dreams, and baby, always have lots of them.  And I hope you all do to.

So this is my kuleana (that is a  Hawaiian word that means a gift of the spirit) to all of you out there.  HOPES AND DREAMS.  Never give up.  We are all special.  Nobody can fire us, not a lot of people can feel that way.  You are your own boss, nobody gets to tell you what to do.  You are the supreme creators.  You make the art, and in turn it helps make you.  It define who you are, it leads you on a path of good life.I don't think Elvis ever got to know how lucky he was.  We do, and we are on the right side of the growing grass.  Cherish these moments and thoughts.  This is the moments of our lives, embrace them with fury that knows no bounds.

Merry Christmas and a happy 2011--things will get better.

PS Haven't written a lot lately, don't know how much I will write in 2011, depends on how much "meat" is thrown out there, or the lack of.  It is good to see new names out there contributing to our lives.  I still think a little bit more info could be included in those reports, but at least people are contributing.

Today I posted a fun video on my website. See the largest street fair in Palm Springs CA. It was done the weekend before Christmas. It definitely will make you laugh. Enjoy and happy holidays to all.  http://ning.it/fIlF8R

Does any one have any info or opinions on Amy Amdur Shows. I know the Highland Park show, but wonder about some of the newer shows, like the one in Glenview at the old Navel Air Station, now a shopping center.

In 2011, Rose Squared Productions, Inc., celebrates its 30th year successfully promoting Fine Art and Craft shows in New Jersey.

Four of their six shows are outdoor events in beautiful Essex County Parks in northern New Jersey.  The parks, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park in New York City, are lovely venues, perfect backdrops for unique, handcrafted fine art, photography, sculpture and fine crafts. The Anderson Park and Brookdale Park shows have been selected as Top 200 Shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine numerous times.

The two indoor shows are held at the Westfield Armory in Westfield, NJ. Each booth is pipe and draped and the aisles are carpeted to create a sophisticated setting for the exhibitors' work.

Known as the exhibitor's promoter, Rose Squared is committed to presenting balanced shows with handcrafted work by the exhibitor only. There is a rolling jury. There are no set deadlines since each category closes as they reach a specific percentage of the show's expected total number of exhibitors. Jewelry usually fills first with approximately 20% of a show's total, which is fair to the participating jewelers and the public looking for a balanced show. Exhibitors are notified within two weeks of applying. Jewelry will begin jurying on December 15, 2010. Jurying has begun for all other categories.

All shows are heavily advertised:

• 28,000 full-color postcards mailed first class to past attendees
• Billboards, posters and advertising postcards are distributed throughout the appropriate locations
• 3000 email blasts are sent to past attendees
• Large display ads and press releases are placed in daily and weekly newspapers
• At the indoor, paid admission shows, all exhibitors receive as many complimentary tickets as they desire and for all shows,
• Exhibitors are given full-color publicity postcards to send to their mailing list and distribute at their other shows
  

Rose Squared's Six Fine Art and Craft Events:

April 9 & 10
Spring Fine Art and Crafts at the Westfield Armory
Westfield, NJ
Set-up: Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 6am-9am

Show hours: Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 10am-5pm

130 exhibitors
Paid admission

For artists who are not familiar with Westfield, it is an affluent town in Central New Jersey, a bedroom community of New York City. The  median family income in Westfield is $147,000.

The high end, tightly juried show will be in its second year in 2011. The Armory is located near the Garden State Parkway, Routes 22 and 28 and is approximately 35 minutes from New York City.

Each booth is pipe and draped with 8 foot white drapes. The aisles are fully carpeted. Move-in is easy with extra help and dollies available for those that need it.

More info: www.rosesquared.com/armory/westfield

May 14 & 15

25th Annual Fine Art and Crafts at Verona Park
Verona,  NJ

Set-up: Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 6:30am-9am

Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 10am-5pm

140 exhibitors
Free to the public

Verona Park is a beautiful Essex County Park in Verona, New Jersey. The park boasts a boat house with rental boats and canoes, a lovely lake and many flower gardens. Located on busy Bloomfield Avenue in Verona, it is an excellent location for an outdoor fine art and fine craft show.

This park is next to Montclair, West Orange, and Cedar Grove with easy access to Route 280, the Garden State Parkway, Routes 46 and 80 and is approximately 30 minutes from New York City.

In 2010, the show boasted two beautiful days with the police estimating attendance at 12,000-14,000.

Learn more: www.rosesquared.com/verona-park

June 18 & 19

23rd Annual Spring Fine Art & Crafts at Brookdale Park on the border of Bloomfield and Montclair, NJ

Set-up: Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 6:30am-9am

Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 10am-5pm

170 exhibitors

The park is located a half a mile from the Garden State Parkway, close to Route 280, Routes 46 and 80. A few minutes from affluent, arty downtown Montclair, the park is a lovely setting for a quality, outdoor fine art and craft show. The event is celebrating its 23rd year.

The beautiful park is very accessible to the public and exhibitors. The show is along a winding path with offering both sun and shade. Exhibitors may drive to their booths to setup, and with a backdrop in place, have their vehicle behind the booth. The show is free to the public.

Learn more:  www.rosesquared.com/brookdale

September 17 & 18

28th Annual Fine Art and Crafts at Anderson Park

Upper Montclair, NJ

Set-up: Fri. 11-6, Sat. 6:30-9

Show Hours: Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 10am-5pm

160 exhibitors

Rose Squared Productions, Inc. presents its oldest show: the 28th annual Fine Art & Crafts at Anderson Park in Upper Montclair, New Jersey. Upper Montclair is home to many "cottages" where each home is more amazing than its neighbor.

Anderson Park is a lovely county park, one block away from the main street in Upper Montclair, an affluent, arty area in northern New Jersey. It is close to the Garden State Parkway, Routes 280, 46 and 80 and approximately 30 minutes from New York City.

Exhibitors may drive to their booths to setup and, with a backdrop in place, have their vehicle behind the booth. The show is free to the public.

Learn more: www.rosesquared.com/anderson-park

October 15-16 12th Annual Fall Fine Art and Crafts at Brookdale Park     the border of Bloomfield and Montclair, NJ Set-up: Fri. 11am-6pm, Sat. 6:30am-9am Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 10am-5pm 170 exhibitors In 2010, after surviving a windy Saturday, Sunday the weather gods smiled and police estimates for Sunday alone were 10,000-12,000.   The park is located a half a mile from the Garden State Parkway, close to Route 280, Routes 46 and 80. A few minutes from affluent, arty downtown Montclair. The park is a lovely setting for a quality, outdoor fine art and craft show. The event is celebrating its 12th year. The beautiful park is very accessible to the public and exhibitors. The show is along a winding path offering both sun and shade. Exhibitors may drive to their booths to setup, and with a backdrop in place, have their vehicle behind the booth. The show is free to the public. Learn more:  www.rosesquared.com/brookdale November 12 & 13 Fall Fine Art and Crafts at the Westfield Armory Westfield, NJ Set-up: Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 6am-9am Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm 130 exhibitors Paid admission   For artists who are not familiar with Westfield, it is an affluent town in Central New Jersey, a bedroom community of New York City. The  median family income in Westfield is $147,000.   The high end, tightly juried show will be in its second year in 2011. The Armory is located near the Garden State Parkway, Routes 22 and 28 and is approximately 35 minutes from New York City. Each booth is pipe and draped with 8 foot white drapes. The aisles are fully carpeted. Move-in is easy with extra help and dollies available for those that need it. Learn more:  www.rosesquared.com/westfield-armory and apply today!

Well, I traveled long and hard this year and I think I will be staying closer to home with all the traveling expenses and all.....to make a long story short, I added the expenses and what I netted.....That was alot of traveling and work to only make a few hundred dollars a show! So I decided to stay closer to home and try the smaller shows in my area plus it was taking a toll on my health. I'm getting very creative on where and how I'm displaying my work and extending my subject manner to things I haven't painted in years. It seems to be working or the economy is starting to pick up...slowly but surely.

I ask you fellow artists, what have you been doing to keep on going?

It is the end of the year. ArtFairInsiders.com has had a great year and we'd like to pass out a few awards to thank the members who have had been instrumental in its growth. We'd like to recognize those who have made the most contributions to this site in 2010. Here is what we'll do first:

1. Will you help us choose the best blog posts? To make it easier I need 12 people to comb each month's blog posts and choose the ten best from each month. Then we'll let the membership vote for the best of the month and the best of the year.
   
   Will you please volunteer to do this? I'm sure there are 12 of you who have participated or even lurked for a long time who can do this. The volunteer will only have to do one month, not the whole year.  You won't have to come out in public even if you're shy. Email me to volunteer.
2. Will you suggest some topics for the awards? E.g., the most erudite, the most outrageous, the most insightful, the best show review.... Please add those ideas below.

Let's give back to those who have inspired us this year and made us think, get angry and laugh.

This is your site. I notice even when I go away for two weeks and then come back you are still here and the site is alive, even though there was a near lynching the last time.

Let's send this year out with a good wrap up of the State of our Industry for 2010 then we'll go get 2011!

Comment below and email me now to help!

P.S. This site's traffic has moved from #899,286 in the Alexa rankings to as low as #124,385* in recent days. This is amazing! What it tells me is that there are a lot of you out there who we never hear from, but we know you are visiting. Thanks for that. I hope you've found us helpful and fun.

Here are our today's stats:
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*Sites that track some of the same topics we are cover rank #785,719, #818,698, #1,265,026 and #4,168,320. Yes, in case you haven't noticed - we rock! What a great group of people we've gathered here.