All Posts - Blog - Art Fair Insiders

Call for Artists: Last Call - 42nd Long's Park Art Festival

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 26, 2020 at 4:00am

September 4 - 6

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

1441 Harrisburg Avenue

Presented by Long's Park Amphitheater Foundation
Friday & Saturday 10am - 6pm &
Sunday 10am - 5pm
200 Artists

Deadline: March 2

Application fee $35 Booth fee $550-$690

Over Labor Day weekend, over 11,000 art lovers make their way to beautiful Long's Park to shop for fine art and high-quality crafts. Set in an historic tree-lined park where booths follow walkways surrounding a tranquil freshwater lake, this top-rated show draws sophisticated, high-income buyers from Philadelphia, Baltimore, Central Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, DC, New York, and beyond, thanks to the quality of its exhibitors and extensive marketing throughout the region.

For our exhibitors, we offer:

An extensive social media campaign (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) along with national and regional advertising to attract educated and knowledgeable buyers to the show
In 2019 we introduced two new media categories: Functional Art - 3-D creations which serve a purpose; and Upcycled/Creative Reuse - Art which uses found objects as the primary medium.
A listing of all artists and links to all artists' websites (or Facebook pages) on our webpage: www.longspark.org/art-festival
All participating artists are highlighted in the free Festival Directory given to guests at each gate
Opportunity to purchase additional low-cost, four-color advertisement in the official Festival Directory
Easy set-up and load out. Vehicle access for loading and unloading at all booths during set-up and tear down
Ample, free on-site parking and overnight camping during the Festival
24-hour on-site security in place from setup on Thursday until 9:00 PM Sunday after the show
Free cold beverages and snacks available throughout the weekend
Hot and cold breakfast buffet on Saturday and Sunday mornings
"Happy Hour" and dinner buffet on Saturday evening
Volunteer "Ambassadors" to attend to the needs of our exhibitors
Volunteer booth sitters available each day
Free exhibitor housing available through community hosts, offered on a first-come, first serve basis

We want to encourage new and emerging artists: Emerging Artists applications are considered separately, considering both images and the artist's resume.

Marketing plan:

Both local (Central PA) and regional advertising and marketing to major metropolitan areas (Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., & Wilmington) targeting culturally sophisticated households who are likely buyers of art
Targeted social media marketing on several platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Free e-postcard for exhibitors to send electronically to their customer base
Free USPS post cards available for artists' own mailing lists
Proceeds from tickets sold benefit our Foundation's presentation of our free, public Summer Music Series

The Long's Park Art Festival treats its guests to an outdoor gallery of the best work being created, and its exhibitors to unequaled hospitality.

Apply: www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=8109

Learn more: https://www.longspark.org/art-festival
Contact:
Rick Faulkner, festivalartdirector@longspark.org, (717) 735-8883

Wickenburg, AZ Art Club's Artisan's Fair at Gold Rush Days 2020

Posted by S Brian Berkun on February 25, 2020 at 12:00pm

Just The Facts...

Show Hours and Dates: Wickenburg Art Club's Artisan's Fair and Fine Art Show at Gold Rush Days 2020. February 14, 15, 16, 2020 9 - 5 all three days. Load-in was Feb 13th from 8 - 5.

Logistics, Load-In/Out:

Load in for the show was Thursday starting at 8 am. Depending on your location load-in/out can either be frustrating or less so. Local police were assisting with the move-in but it didn't seem to make things any less confusing. Artists had to check in at the front of the library and as a first time exhibitor that also added to the confusion. Those on the south side of the library had more congestion as there were more booths set up on that side. Artists had to park in diagonal spots to unload. If you had a booth on the north or east side of the library it was much less congested.

Amenities:

There was a "continental breakfast" on Friday consisting of coffee, bagels and sweet things. This show relied on the artists to figure out their own plans for food, the usual "fair food" is available. I had leftovers and there are nearby regular restaurants and a grocery store that I got sandwiches from the night before. The occasional volunteer booth sitters came by. Water was being vended for $1 a bottle by the show.

Storage, Booth Space:

Most booths, that I could see, had some limited storage space behind/near them. Booths were in some cases irregularly spaced, some were adjacent to the sidewalk.

Demographics/Buying Trends:

Can't speak to "buying trends" as I didn't see much buying going on. I guess that is a trend in-and-of-itself! Low end was the rule of the show. I didn't see much large artwork walking by on my side of the show. Although the show started early, 9 AM, people didn't start to turn up till after 10, it was even later on Sunday.

Quality/Range of Art:

The range of "art" was very wide. From my survey of booths content was variable. There was some "fine" art and a lot more craft items, jewelry and wearables.

Food:

You either brought your own or went to the typical "fair food" vendors. See above for more details.

Weather:

The days were sunny and bright. Although earlier weather reports that I had read suggested temps in the mid 60's it turned out better as temps were in the mid 70's. I was hoping for some respite from the cold in Denver but not so as my booth was on the back (north) side of the library it was pretty chilly most of the day.

Reflections:

Wickenburg is a nice little town to the Northwest of the greater Phoenix metro area. Far enough away so that it has no association with the hub-bub of the larger city. It has a nice historic downtown with shops and restaurants of varying flavors. This was a first time show for me. I was looking for something new to do in February as I haven't participated in the typical Thunderbird or other Arizona shows for a while, snowbirds and older second home owners are not buyers at those shows. I thought that a rodeo, car show and parade might make a good mix for my work, not so. This is what I would consider a nice little local show though I suppose there are exceptions to every rule. It should be noted that this wasn't the only show going on in the general area. The Chamber of Commerce also sponsors a show right across the street from this one with booths featuring replacement windows, realtors and the ubiquitous blow up toys. Interspersed were the occasional artist/vendors. This time of year in Arizona is when all the activities are happening and the hotel rates sky rocket. It is not cheap to stay in the area unless you are camping, live nearby or use flight miles to pay for lodging.

Okay, now for the star rating! I'd give this show 2 ✩ out of 5, as far as the buying goes, I'd give it 1 ✩ and that's being way too generous. I will not be returning.

Call for Artists: Northville's 11th Annual Arts and Acts Festival - Three Events

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 25, 2020 at 4:00am

June 19 - 21

Northville, Michigan

Presented by Arts and Acts Festival

Friday 3pm-8pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, & Sunday 10am-4pm

75 Artists

Deadline: March 1

Application fee: $30 Booth fee: $300-$600

The Northville Art House invites you to the 11th annual, 3-day festival held in historic Downtown Northville, an affluent and picturesque enclave between Ann Arbor and Detroit, Michigan. Held under the umbrella of the Arts and Acts Festival, over 100 unique fine artisans and crafters are featured in three fairs: Art in the Sun, Maker's Mart, and Young Artist Juried Art Fair.

The weekend also showcases musical performances on two outdoor stages, food vendors and a variety of art, literary, and children's activities. Annual attendance estimates are 20,000. This is a free event.

Artist Amenities:

Booth Sitting
Overnight Security
Unlimited Bottled Water
Drive up Load In / Load Out
Monetary prizes up to $2000
Volunteers available throughout the festival
Free overnight parking within walking distance of the festival
An Artist Brunch on Sunday morning in town square
Heavily marketed in print, online add, social media and signs
A picturesque Victorian town as a backdrop located halfway between Ann Arbor and Detroit.

Apply: https://northvillearthouse.org/artsandacts/artfairs/

More information: https://northvillearthouse.org/artsandacts/

Contact: Jennifer Creighton, events@northvillearthouse.org
(248) 344-0497

Art Fiesta, New Smyrna Beach— more fiesta than art

Posted by Nels johnson on February 24, 2020 at 1:57pm

Sorry, I am way behind on my blogs— busy show schedule.

So I will blog about my most recent, last weekend in my home town.

This is more a craft show than an art show.

People walking their dogs vastly outnumbered any buyers.

I have yet, in 45 years, ever sell a piece of my art to a dog walking fair- goer.

Maybe it is just me.

The dog senses my intent and secretly alerts his master. “This guy is trying to get you to part with hardwon cash. Save it for my dog biscuits.”

Dog always wins.

I wish they were walking their cats. I get along great with the felines.

Oh well.

Nels will you fricking tell us about the fiesta. Were the piñatas easy to penetrate?

No, I could not find any piñatas or margaritas.

Boring Show.

If you have decorated toilet seats, carved tiki totems, colored food carrier bags or the usual art on the stick, you can make a lot of money here.

They just do not want to spend even $75 for art.

But, they will buy three carved totems at $250 each.

Go figure.

Last year, my first time here, I did almost $2K, in my own back yard.

This year I did not even break a thousand.

This Show is about one month after Images. It is a lovely craft show. About 220 booths with a $225 booth fee.

It used to be an easy setup the day before. They closed the streets off at noon and you could amble in.

This year they changed. No setup til after 6pm.

Trouble was we had 20 mph plus winds. Almost nobody setup.

Saturday morn it was tedious to get a van near the booth.

Saturday was a chilly, windy day. The walls were shaking. It was not fun and almost nobody was buying anything of significance. Lots of art on the stick going by,

I did $300 worth of biz. My neighbor with the tiki totems sold at least eight of them.

All I could sell was $30 photos. Not my crowd.

I went home whipped that nite. Drank way too many Manhattens. They were yummy at the time. But their was hell to pay the next day.

Sunday we had beautiful weather and moderate crowds, dogs still outnumbered buyers.

I saw maybe eight 2-D pieces go by the whole day.

They Just were buying cheap here.

I got out in an hour. I had Position A with my van. Some day, after I retire, I will tell you how to get successful PA. I have been perfecting it for 45 years.

Off to Gasparilla this weekend in my old hometown. Sure could use a great art show.

So far this season, they have been very elusive.

4 Festivals Make Big Changes: Chicago, Palm Springs, Seattle & Hong Kong

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 24, 2020 at 11:00am

Okay, so we know two art fairs that announced their closing in recent weeks: in Columbus, OH and in Novi, MI. Here are some more big changes:

Chicago's (Evanston, actually) Custer Fair, a major summer art and crafts festival that has drawn as many as 120,000 visitors, is moving to Hammond, IN, after nearly a half century in Evanston.

Organizers Tammy and Steve Szostek plan to relocate the art fair that's had as many as 400 vendors to The Pavilion at Wolf Lake Memorial Park after 48 years in downtown Evanston. She said Evanston forced them to install expensive crowd control barricades last year ... read more

And this in the Palm Springs, CA, area: Palm Springs denies a long standing event held in Frances Stevens Park, the Desert Arts Festival, a permit to use the park.

"The city is denying the festival's permits for March saying it has outgrown its location. Local artists who depend on this festival say they are stunned by the city's changes." read more

And this in Seattle: Bumbershoot, Seattle’s music and arts festival for the past 48 years, is likely to return this Labor Day, though in a smaller, scaled-back form. I know this is a music festival, but wanted to include it here because of the trend that seems to be appearing.

"The forecast for Bumbershoot has been cloudy for several years, but became particularly stormy last fall when megapromoter AEG decided to step away from its contract renewal option, putting the future of the festival in doubt. " read more

And just in case that doesn't make you pause for thought, how about this? The big, biggie, gallery events: Art world fights coronavirus with digital shows in wake of mainland China and Hong Kong event cancellations

How would you like to be showing your work only digitally??? Scary. Read more.

Call for Artists: The Art of Fire - Clay, Glass, & Metal

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 24, 2020 at 4:00am

June 13 & 14

Royal Oak, Michigan

Downtown on Washington St.

Saturday 10 am-7pm & Sunday 11am-5pm
110 Artists
Deadline: March 9

Application fee: $25; Booth fee: $355 (doubles & electricity available)

A unique event, featuring 110 clay, glass, and metal artists. The nation's only show dedicated to clay, glass and metal.

What you'll find:

Extensive demos in each medium
An educated audience that loves this art and supports it with their purchases
Artists that demonstrate or offer hands-on projects get additional space at no charge.
A narrow focus on work created with minerals and heat attracts an audience specifically looking to purchase these items.

Our artists tell us it is a pleasure having customers who understand their work and techniques. Drive up to unload; convenient artist parking.

Apply:
https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=8023

Presented by the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce with the assistance of Integrity Shows, info@integrityshows.com

Integrity Shows - Intentional events for extraordinary results.

Integrity Shows are produced by Mark Loeb. Mark is a well-connected show organizer, recognized throughout metro Detroit. Mark and his team have been organizing, consulting and operating successful events since 1982.

Integrity Shows uses a three-year jury system. Artists are guaranteed a space for 3 years provided they apply by the deadline and abide by the show rules. We adjust the size of the show accordingly to assure that half the spaces are available in any given year.

Fun events, seriously

Call for Artists: 45th Edina Art Fair

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 23, 2020 at 4:00am

June 5 - 7

Edina, Minnesota

50th and France neighborhood

Presented by 50th and France Business Association

Friday-Saturday 10am-7pm & Sunday 10am-5pm

280 Artists

Deadline: March 1

Application: $45 Booth fee: $450 - $895

The Edina Art Fair has grown to 300,000-350,000 visitors throughout the 3-day weekend, while displaying 280 artists' diverse collection of art, entertainment, kids zone, craft beer gardens, food trucks and more.

The Edina Art Fair is the first art fair of the summer and is rated one of the top 50 art festivals in the nation. The fair is held annually on the streets of 50th & France. 50th & France is the pre-eminent shopping destination in the Twin Cities, known for its luxury and lifestyle boutiques!

This unique neighborhood has a reputation for bringing a lifestyle that caters to distinction - a distinction its members take pride in.

Testimonials

"Great communication and written updates much better than most shows - EXCELLENT!!!"
"This is my second year doing art fairs and my first year exhibiting at the Edina Art Fair. I was dreading the set-up/tear-down process; literally I lost sleep because I anticipated chaos! I was delighted with how smooth it went; I loved the organization."
"The Edina Art Fair has a good reputation among customers and many faithful attendees; many customers I talked to said that this was their favorite art fair to attend."
"Our block captain was friendly, helpful, visible, and always smiling!"

Apply: http://www.edinaartfair.com/

Contact: Rachel Thelemann, director@50thandfrance.com
(952) 922-1524

Call for Artists: 31st Annual Manayunk Arts Festival

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 22, 2020 at 4:00am

June 27 & 28

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Presented by Manayunk Development Corporation
Saturday 11am-7pm & Sunday 11am-6pm

300 Artists

Deadline: March 1

Notification Date: April 1

Application fee: $30 Booth fee: $495

The Manayunk Development Corporation is pleased to announce the 31st Annual Manayunk Arts Festival. This year we invite you to join us at the tri-state's largest outdoor, juried arts and crafts festival. We look forward to celebrating three decades of presenting an eclectic variety of fine arts and crafts from across the country. Nearly 150,000 collectors, buyers, and designers will fill historic Main Street Manayunk over two days for this event.

Each year we receive an exciting and unique pool of artisans and our jury is faced with the challenge of selecting 300 artists from an annually increasing application pool. We thank you for your interest in our show and look forward to seeing the art that is submitted!

Named a National Historic District in 1983 and a Classic Town by The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission in 2007, Manayunk is centrally located just 15 minutes from Center City Philadelphia, King of Prussia, Chestnut Hill, and The Main Line. Nestled along the banks of the Schuylkill River and the Manayunk Canal and Tow Path, the commercial district is lined with renovated Victorian storefronts and mill buildings giving you an urban experience with small town charm.

All artists must have a plain 10'x10' white tent.


	Heather Lynn Gibson - Oil Paintings

Ten notable jurors will examine one category at a time. They will have a round table discussion for each piece of art work submitted, assess the work, and individually score it. Artists are reviewed on many different criteria including: medium, quality, creation process, uniqueness, price point, booth display & signage, and overall presentation of work.

APPLY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7812

More information:
http://manayunk.com/events/manayunk-arts-festival.html

Contact:
Megan Douress mdouress@manayunk.org (267) 270-3075

Call for Artists: Park City Kimball Arts Festival

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 21, 2020 at 4:00am

July 31 - August 2

Park City, Utah

Historic Main Street

225 Artists

Deadline: March 1

Application fee $50 Booth fee $575 - $1850

The Park City Kimball Arts Festival is a three-day, award-winning visual arts festival located in the heart of the world-famous resort community of Park City, Utah. Every year, roughly 225 professional artists are selected by a blind jury to showcase their work, and more than 50,000 art enthusiasts from around the world converge on Park City's historic Main Street to purchase it. In 2019, reported artist sales totaled $1.2 million!

Offering 13 visual arts media, this annual event also features live music, gourmet food and drink, and a host of creative and collaborative activities. Proceeds from the event support the Kimball Art Center, Park City's nonprofit community art center since 1976.

Accolades from our 2019 Participating Artists:

"It's a great show and our communications with the powers that be were stellar. The quality of the show is top notch."
"(The Kimball Arts Festival) provides us with the opportunity to be successful as artists. The show is extremely well organized and extremely profitable. What more could we ask? I have no suggestions for improvement because it is a record show every year. Not to mention we have a blast at the show."
"Fantastic audience and sales! Everyone really appreciates the high quality available."
"Thank you for putting on such an awesome event! My sales are the best of any art fair each year. Keep doing what you are doing!"
"Just LOVED the show the people and the town! Wow. I consider myself lucky."
"This is our most profitable and enjoyable show every year!"

Artist Services and Support:

- Artist Reception on Saturday, Aug. 1st for Artists and one guest.
- The Art Center partners with a variety of hotels and other accommodations in Park City. Expect special artist discounts from our lodging partners!
- Website listing with artist images and link to artist website.
- Customized map just for Artists with addresses and important locations.
- A Welcome Tent with bagels and coffee at the Artist Check-In location Friday morning.
- Artist Lounge with coffee and all-day refreshments, plus electrical outlets for charging devices for Artists
- Early morning load-in option for those with long or delicate set-ups.
- Staggered Assigned load-in time for organized load-in with space to unload.
- Complimentary artist parking for one vehicle (and 1 trailer) per artist in dedicated lots, including over-sized parking.
- Boxed lunches available for purchase delivered directly to Artist booth during the Festival.
- Water and snacks delivered by volunteers
- Booth sitters available via text
- Experienced, helpful, and friendly staff to help answer application and event questions.

We hope you apply to the

51st Annual Park City Kimball Arts Festival!

Applications on Zapplication!

https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7930

For more information: https://parkcitykimballartsfestival.org/

Contact: Hillary Gilson, artsfest@kimballartcenter.org

2 Chicago Festivals - Deadlines tomorrow!

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 20, 2020 at 8:30am

41st Fountain Square Artisan Fest

June 20 & 21

Evanston, Illinois

Sherman and Church Street

Saturday & Sunday 11am - 7pm
150 Artists

Deadline: February 21

Application: $30
Booth fee: $450 (10'x10'),
$650 (10'x20'), $100 corner

NOTEWORTHY:

150+ artists and craftsmen
25,000 Attendance
Booth Sitters
24 Hour Security
Friday Evening Set Up
Assisted Load-In and Load-Out
Artist Air Conditioned Lounge
Event Staff onsite for entire show
Discounted Artist Parking

For three decades, the Fountain Square Artisan Fest has won acclaim as one of the most prestigious art festivals in the Midwest. With more than 150 artists, it's the largest and oldest juried arts fair on Chicago's North Shore. The festival is located on six city blocks in downtown Evanston with the fest's eponymous "Renovated Fountain Square" sculpture garden serving as its focal point. This urban setting creates the perfect ambiance and embodies the word "sophistication" with an audience of more than 25,000 discerning, upscale art aficionados and collectors.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS on ZAPP:

https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=8205

Application Deadline: February 21, 2020

Jury Notification: March 23, 2020

Booth Payment Due: March 27, 2020

More information: https://www.chicagoevents.com/

Contact: Exhibitors@chicagoevents.com, (773) 868-3010

22nd Annual Festival of Fine Arts

June 26 - 28

Highland Park, Illinois

Downtown lining the street

Presented by:
The Art Center Highland Park

110 Artists

Deadline: February 23

Application fee: $25

Booth fee:

$435 (10'x10') & $725 (10'x20')

NOTEWORTHY:

Limited to 110 artists
Easy drive-up load-in and load-out at booth space
Organized, friendly staff onsite for entire festival
Artist lounge with snacks and refreshments
Extensive PR and Marketing
Artist cash category award prizes
Overnight security
Close day and overnight parking for artists
Booth sitting
Local restaurants provide fabulous festival favorites

The Art Center Highland Park's Festival of Fine Arts is located just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. This will be TACHP's 22nd annual summer festival and their biggest event to date, attracting art collectors from all over the midwest.

Artist booths outline the street starting on the lawn of the host facility, a year-round gallery featuring professionally curated, challenging exhibits, popular event space, and offering over 400 arts classes with 2,400 enrollments a year. Community support is high and we invite you to start your Chicagoland summer tour at the Festival of Fine Arts.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS on ZAPP:

https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=8214

Application Deadline: February 23rd, 2020

Artist Notification: March 2nd, 2020

Booth Fee Due: March 22nd, 2020

More information: chicagoevents.com/events/festival-of-fine-arts/

Contact: Exhibitors@chicagoevents.com, (773) 868-3010

Call for Artists: Artfest in the Pines

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 20, 2020 at 4:00am

March 14 & 15

Pembroke Pines, Florida

Charles F. Dodge City Center

601 City Center Way

Saturday & Sunday 10am - 5pm

100 Artists

Deadline: March 2

Application fee: $40 Booth fee: $200-$350

The Charles F. Dodge City Center Pembroke Pines, is in the heart of Pembroke Pines, the second-largest city in Broward County, and is nestled between Mediterranean style residences, casual-chic and family-style restaurants featuring international cuisine and numerous name-brand stores and shopping malls. The city center is a multi-use facility that serves the community by hosting events such as Banquets, Conferences, Concerts, Meetings, Social Events,Trade Shows, and facilitating local events which will promote civic, educational and community pride.

This facility offers 45,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space. Besides its intelligent design, the City Center is also visually striking, attendees will notice the modern contemporary architecture with its sleek lines and the unique layout of the facility.

New This Year:

Increased booth space between artists
Interactive family zone at the heart of the festival, increases traffic for artists' booths
Solidified zoning of the festival eases flow of traffic and accessibility for patrons

We invite you to embrace the art of life in south Florida's happiest city!

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7814

More information: https://www.ppines.com/1240/ArtFest-in-the-Pines

Contact: Alisha Henfield ahenfield@ppines.com (954) 392-2122

Call for Artists: 7th Palmer Park Art Fair

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 19, 2020 at 4:00am

June 6 & 7
Detroit, Michigan

Palmer Park

Saturday 10am-7pm & Sunday 11am-5pm

65 artists

Deadline: March 1

Application fee: $25; Booth fees start at $335

Best for high-end traditional work, afro-centric work, larger paintings and sculpture.

The show is held in beautiful Palmer Park and is adjacent to some of the city's best neighborhoods. Residents are professionals with huge homes and great disposable income. Our experience is the shoppers like more traditional images, and afro-centric work also does well. Don't be afraid to bring larger work as many people have substantial historic homes.

The show winds around a pond and runs adjacent to the historic log cabin. Artists are encouraged to get out of the tent and create installations that enhance their work and interact with the natural beauty of the park.

The "entertainment" is art projects and artist demonstrations. Patrons are invited to get their hands dirty. All of this helps to contribute to appreciation and sales.

Why you should be here:

Limited to 65 artists
Significant paid advertising and news coverage
Easy drive up unloading
Experienced artists friendly organization
Free parking and RV parking

Apply: www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7904

Integrity Shows - Intentional events for extraordinary results.

Integrity Shows are produced by Mark Loeb. Mark is a well-connected show organizer, recognized throughout metro Detroit. Mark and his team have been organizing, consulting and operating successful events since 1982.

Integrity Shows uses a three-year jury system. Artists are guaranteed a space for 3 years provided they apply by the deadline and abide by the show rules. We adjust the size of the show accordingly to assure that half the spaces are available in any given year.

Fun events, seriously

Call for Artists: St. Johns River Festival of the Arts

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 18, 2020 at 4:00am

May 2 & 3

Sanford, Florida

Historic downtown Sanford

150 Artists

Deadline: February 26

Application fee: $25 Booth fee: $235

In its ninth year, the art festival continues to grow with outstanding regional artists. The festival takes place along our charming brick- streets with specialty shops, cafe's, bistro's and restaurants. For two days Sanford is transformed into an artist mecca, with acoustic performances throughout the venue, a culinary arts court featuring hand-crafted food, and beer and wine stations.

The organizers focus on the art, with 150 juried artists and an atmosphere and layout that encourages attendees to stop and appreciate the art. Demonstration sites are located throughout the event to encourage an appreciation of the artistic process.

Note:

Artists' parking nearby
Extra large booth spaces for booth side exposure
Artist friendly, offering easy check-in and exit at the end of the festival
Artists who apply early may be showcased in the media spots
Booth numbers and artist information will be posted in the festival program
Convenient drive-in registration, load in and load out
Light breakfast & light lunch provided Saturday and Sunday in VIP/Artist Retreat
24 hour security; Booth sitters and water available
Easy access from I-4 and 417
Special prices from area hotels for artists and vendors
Patron of the Arts program
Extensive marketing and advertising campaign
An increasing anticipated attendance of 50,000

Awards: Over $15,000 in award money


	Marilyn Vaillencourt, Jewelry

(1) Best in Show $3,000

(2) Juror's Choice $900

(8) Awards of Excellence $800

(8) Awards of Distinction $500

Apply:
https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7808

More information: https://stjohnsriverartfest.com/about/

Contact:
Kim House, stjohnsrivrartfest@gmail.com@gmail.com
(407) 416-1779

Next Podcast: All You Ever Wanted to Know about an Art Fair Jury

Posted by Connie Mettler on February 17, 2020 at 4:00pm

Listen live: Monday, Feb. 24, 5 pm, ET

The two most important things about earning a living in the art fair business:

Getting into the event
Having work that people will buy once you're there

Co-host, Cindy Lerick, CFEE, joins Connie Mettler for a nuts and bolts discussion about the jury process for art festivals. Cindy is one of the only show directors who has managed 4 major shows, Uptown in Minneapolis, Main Street in Fort Worth, the Saint Louis Art Fair and the Sausalito Arts Festivals. In addition for many years she has traveled to event's juries for ZAPP to be a Tech help.

There are many variables from show to show. Most show directors don’t know how others shows run their jury. Some have plenty of discussion, some have none, some have no directions given to the jurors. Scoring systems, projection, length of time, selection of jurors, there is no standard. We'll explore some of these variances.

A few topics we'll address:

What is the difference between a projection jury and monitor jury?
How the jury ties into the show's look
Who is the competition?
Are the jurors the same from year to year?
Do show directors jury their own show?

Questions galore! We encourage your participation. We want to hear from you. Will you please put any questions you'd like answered in the comments below? Or send them to me in an email.

If we get enough questions we'll host another live podcast where you can speak with Cindy directly.

Call for Artists: Crested Butte Arts Festival

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 17, 2020 at 4:00am

July 31 - August 2

Crested Butte, Colorado

Downtown in the National Historic District

165 Artists

Deadline: March 1

Application fee: $35; Booth fees: $450-$1000

The "Premier Arts Event in Colorado", the Crested Butte Arts Festival will be held on Historic Elk Avenue in the majestic town of Crested Butte. Approximately 165 artists are selected during a competitive jury process with 12 mediums welcomed for evaluation. Sales at this nationally recognized event continue to increase as the festival attracts a savvy, sophisticated and motivated art-buying clientele.

The charming and eclectic Town of Crested Butte, a National Historic District, is the venue for this outdoor show. Admission and parking are free and entertainment, children's programs, and live art demonstrations are scheduled throughout the weekend.

Artist VIP house and amenities coined the "best in the industry" with a well organized setup and tear down process
attentive staff and volunteers prior to and during the festival weekend.
Now approaching its 48th year, the event is recognized as one of the best juried arts shows in the West!

Marketing:

PRINT: Colorado Homes and Lifestyle, Mountain Living, THE Magazine, Southwest Arts Magazine, Colorado Performing Arts Publications,Colorado Springs Independent, Denver Life, The Beacon, Sunshine Artist, Arts Advisor Magazine, Colorado Life Magazine, Crested Butte News, The Crested Butte In Room Guide, The Crested Butte Magazine, and Gunnison Country Times

SOCIAL MEDIA & DIGITAL: Facebook and Instagram outlets with partners: Colorado Homes and Lifestyle, Mountain Living, Art Fair Sourcebook, Art-linx, THE Magazine, Sunshine Artist, Arts Fair Insider, Art Fair.com, Arts Fair Sourcebook, Travel Crested Butte, and Colorado Springs Independent

Testimonials:

"Outstanding show in every way, great sales with motivated customers." - 2019 Juried Artist

"The Crested Butte Arts Festival was a fabulous show & experience! A wonderfully ran event with an amazing Artist VIP option. The staff & volunteers were great throughout the event, the art showcased at the event was top notch, & the patrons/art collectors were so vibrant, positive, & supportive of the arts! Oh & the beautiful location of Crested Butte is just the icing on the already awesome cake!" -2019 Artist

"Best show of the year! Amazing staff, educated customers, supportive city." -2019 Artist

"I am grateful for this extremely well run festival in a beautiful town with plenty of buyers!" -2019 Artist

The Crested Butte Arts Festival welcomes all artists in any fine art or fine craft medium, exhibiting his or her own handmade work of art. Four images of current work and one booth image representative of work that you plan to display at the Festival are required for jurying.

Application URL: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7920

Learn more about us: http://www.crestedbutteartsfestival.com

Chelsea@crestedbutteartsfestival.com

Call for Artists: National Juried Art Show NYC: Wide Open 11 (a gallery opportunity)

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 16, 2020 at 4:00am

May 9 - June 21

Brooklyn, New York

481 Van Brunt Street on Red Hook waterfront

Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition

100 Artists

Final Deadline: March 2

Fees:

Early Bird: (through midnight, February 4): $45 for up to three (3) images plus $6.00 for each additional
Submissions February 5 through midnight March 2: $65 for up to three (3) images plus $6.00 for each additional.

Notification: March 16

We are excited to announce our eleventh annual national juried art show, Wide Open 11 opening May 9, 2020. This year we are privileged and delighted to have returning to BWAC as a juror one of New York's very knowledgeable curators, Paulina Pobocha, of MoMA. With her guidance and selections, we look forward to another spectacular show.

Ours is a truly unique and generous space - a beautiful

stone Civil War-era warehouse overlooking New York Harbor from the piers of Red Hook, in Brooklyn NY. We welcome the opportunity to exhibit unusually large work, and look forward to exhibiting artwork from all around the country, work in all sizes, and subjects, and media.

The broad theme of Wide Open 11 encompasses all the possibilities of knowledge and freedom and love - wide open spaces ... arms wide open ... eyes wide open - but as with all things, there is the inevitable opposite - wide open to attack ... corruption... failure. What kind of fantasy is this? What does it really indicate? This juried show looks to explore the idea of "wide open" in all the hidden niches of our collective psyche.

Eligibility:
This call for submission is open to all residents of the U.S. and its Territories 18 years of age or older. This is a juried exhibition for

artists working in all traditional and non-traditional 2D and 3D media, *including film/video only when part of an Installation. Works may be submitted in one or multiple media.

All artwork must be original in concept, design and execution. Limited edition prints/photographs are accepted. Artwork not meeting the criteria, although juried, may be rejected.

Selection:

All jurying to enter this competition will be on-line. Judging for prizes is done on-site. All decisions are final. $2100 cash awards will be distributed to 8 winners.

Apply:
bwac.org/national-juried-art-show-nyc-may-9-june-21-2020/

Contact: Elaine Mendez, bwacjuriedshows@gmail.com

The Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition is a 501.c.3 non-profit corporation. Organized in 1978 by 16 artists looking for a place to exhibit, BWAC has grown to become Brooklyn's largest artist-run organization with over 250 members. Our artist/members are the management, leadership, board and staff. For 40 years, BWAC has been exhibiting the artwork of local Brooklyn artists. BWAC's 25,000 square foot gallery is in a Civil War-era warehouse on the Red Hook waterfront.

Big weekend in Florida. The Grove anyone?

Posted by Connie Mettler on February 14, 2020 at 9:30am

Can I get this to work? If you only see a blank ... looks like I couldn't upload the video, yet, if you're curious the links below it do work ... thanks for your patience

https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/coconut-grove/article60387506.html

https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/coconut-grove/article240253066.html

Call for Artists: West Shore Art Fair

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 14, 2020 at 4:00am

July 4 & 5

Ludington, Michigan
Presented by the Ludington Area Center for the Arts
125 Artists
Deadline: February 28, 2020

Fee: $25.00 for early bird applications Nov.-Dec.
(use coupon code at checkout: eb2020)

Later fee: $35.00 Jan.-Feb.

Booth Fee: Single 12' x 12' for $250; Double 12' x 24' for $500

In its 52nd year, the West Shore Art Fair has been recognized as one of Sunshine Artist Magazines' 200 Best Fine Art and Fine Craft Fairs over the years and received a ranking of #31 on the 2018 list.

WSAF takes place at Rotary Park (formerly City Park) in the beautiful Lake Michigan resort community of Ludington, Michigan, featuring 100 plus jury-selected fine artists across a variety of media, including clay, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, painting, photography, sculpture and more. The WSAF awards 11 first place prizes of $200 by category. Winning artists will also be exempt from jury on the following year's application.

This open-air, juried fine art and fine crafts show is managed by the Ludington Area Center for the Arts, a community arts organization that cultivates access to arts and culture in West Michigan. In addition to original, jury-selected art, the show features live music performances, food stations and a children's art activity area.

Marketing:

The West Shore Art Fair will be publicized and marketed throughout the region, statewide and beyond.

The online jury process will begin March 1 and will be completed March 26.
Images: 3 images of artist work, 1 image of booth display (Please be sure that your name or image does not appear in your booth photo) Emerging artists need only submit 4 images of their work - no booth image required.

APPLY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7021

Visit www.ludingtonartscenter.org/wsaf3.html or facebook.com/WestShoreArtFair for more information.

Contact: Andrew Skinner wsaf@ludingtonartscenter.org, (231) 845-2787

Celebrating 16,000+ Members

Posted by Connie Mettler on February 13, 2020 at 3:30pm

Thank you to all who have joined this network. We founded it late in 2008 and were stunned by the response. This was in the days before Facebook was ubiquitous and the site was THE place to meet online and share show information and the travails of being an art fair artist.

Some of our founding members are Bonnie Blandford, Ginny Herzog, Kathleen Eaton, Marian Steen, Andrew Shea, Charles Gatewood, Jim Wilbat, Allan Teger, Jan Richardson, Michelle Levett and Jay McDougall, many of them longtime friends of mine. Our favorite show reviewer, Nels Johnson, didn't come in until #78, a few months after we launched the site.

Many of you have been dedicated writers here and everyone who visits this site appreciates your kindnesses and generosity in sharing your information.

Some stats:

visits to Art Fair Insiders: 4,273,792

biggest month May 2014 - 106,022 visits

January 2020 visits: 14,763

16,023 members

6895 blog posts

7689 discussions

17,802 photos

7000 followers on our Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/artfairinsiders/

83 podcasts at ArtFairRadio.com

A few highlighted blog posts:

Any of Nels Johnson's blogs, including: I Saw a Naked Cowboy, Setting up in my Driveway and Making Lots of Moola
Melanie Rolfes posts great art fair reviews like this that usually have good photos: Las Olas Part I. 2014 and some philosophical ones too: Breaking down fast or enjoy the ride
One of my favorites from Marti McGinniss which distills great attitude for the art fair business: Don't Just Survive. Thrive!
One of mine: Fear, Loathing and Life Online

A few popular discussions:

Our most popular discussion with 36726 views: What's the worst question you've been asked at an art fair, from Jim Dalton
Can you survive financially from your art fair income alone?
29705 visits: Winter Park Festival Artists to Discuss Fraud

I’m not doing this alone. Jacki Bilsborrow updates ArtFairCalendar.com and handles ArtShowReviews.com. Tina Towell welcomes new members, keeps up with advertisers and follow up. My sister Meg Mettler puts together our Wednesday emails, runs CallsforArtists.com, posts on AFI and on our Facebook page and sends out emails. Larry Berman vets all incoming members to AFI and gives up to date tech advice. I used to blog more and do show videos for YouTube and more podcasts, the things I like to do the

best, but I'm still running as fast as I can and maybe running low on gas.

Love to all of you every day in all your endeavors. Connie

P.S. Do you have a favorite thing you've found on this site?

Call for Artists: Six Detroit area shows - May to September

Posted by Meg Mettler on February 12, 2020 at 4:00am

4th Kensington Metropark Art Fair

May 23-25

Memorial Day Weekend

Milford, Michigan
Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron Pkwy.

Sat. & Sun. 10am-6pm; Mon. 10am-4pm

100 artists

Deadline: February 24

Application fee: $25; Booth fees start at $355

A beautiful art fair next to the lake in the heart of Michigan's most prosperous areas. The show is centered in one of Michigan's wealthiest areas, Oakland County, which has the highest per capita income in the state.

Traditional images do well in all price points. Audience is a little older with large homes and gardens. Artist booths are in the grass in a serpentine layout.

Extensive marketing and partnerships.

Held in a popular park by the beach with 800 dedicated parking spaces. The park winds along the river with convenient parking, food trucks and river views. The park already attracts 1.2 million visitors annually.

Apply:https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7903

7th Palmer Park Art Fair

June 6 & 7
Detroit, Michigan

Palmer Park

Saturday 10am-7pm & Sunday 11am-5pm

65 artists

Deadline: March 1

Application fee: $25; Booth fees start at $335

Best for high-end traditional work, afro-centric work, larger paintings and sculpture.

The show is held in beautiful Palmer Park and is adjacent to some of the city's best neighborhoods. Residents are professionals with huge homes and great disposable income. Our experience is the shoppers like more traditional images, and afro-centric work also does well. Don't be afraid to bring larger work as many people have substantial historic homes.

The show winds around a pond and runs adjacent to the historic log cabin. Artists are encouraged to get out of the tent and create installations that enhance their work and interact with the natural beauty of the park.

The "entertainment" is art projects and artist demonstrations. Patrons are invited to get their hands dirty. All of this helps to contribute to appreciation and sales.

Why you should be here:

Limited to 65 artists
Significant paid advertising and news coverage
Easy drive up unloading
Experienced artists friendly organization
Free parking and RV parking

Apply: www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7904

The Art of Fire: Clay, Glass & Metal

June 13 & 14

Royal Oak, Michigan

Downtown on Washington St.

Saturday 10 am-7pm & Sunday 11am-5pm
110 Artists
Deadline: March 9

Application fee: $25; Booth fee: $355 (doubles & electricity available)

A unique event, featuring 110 clay, glass, and metal artists. The nation's only show dedicated to clay, glass and metal.

What you'll find:

Extensive demos in each medium
An educated audience that loves this art and supports it with their purchases
Artists that demonstrate or offer hands-on projects get additional space at no charge.
A narrow focus on work created with minerals and heat attracts an audience specifically looking to purchase these items.

Our artists tell us it is a pleasure having customers who understand their work and techniques. Drive up to unload; convenient artist parking.

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=8023

Presented by the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce with the assistance of Integrity Shows, info@integrityshows.com

Stony Creek Art Fair

July 25 & 26

Shelby Township, Michigan

Metropark - 4300 Main Park Drive

75 Artists

Deadline: April 6

Application fee: $25 Booth fee: $355 - $690

The Stony Creek Art Fair is in a beautiful setting next to a lake. The large parking lot is within 100 feet. Close to large homes and wealthy patrons, this show should be good for most price points.

Get that "up north" feeling without leaving the suburbs at top-rated Stony Creek Metropark. Extending across Oakland and Macomb counties, 4,461 scenic acres abound with opportunity for outdoor recreation all year long. Near Rochester, Birmingham and other high-income cities. Millions of people visit the park annually.

The show offers dedicated parking for artists and patrons adjacent to the event. We will limit the show to 75 booths. Our marketing program is designed to attract qualified high-end art collectors.

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7905

Belle Isle Art Fair

August 1 & 2

Detroit, Michigan

Belle Isle State Park

Saturday 10am - 7pm & Sunday 11am - 5pm
100 Artists

Deadline: April 19

Application fee $25 Booth fee $395-$730

Belle Isle is a beautiful island park reached by bridge from Detroit. The art fair is in a grass field adjacent to the beautiful Scott Fountain. People from all over love to come to the island and it's packed with people on summer weekends.

We work hard to attract art buyers- media exposure, work with community groups and place extensive print and broadcast advertising.

Integrity Shows avoids the everything for everybody concept of shows. Our marketing is designed to bring people with the means and ability to buy your artwork. Our shows are widely praised for the effort placed toward supporting participating artists. We understand that your success is essential and we do what it takes to meet your needs.

100 Juried Artists
Next to Scott Fountain
Art Projects with the DIA
Mint Artists Guild
Heritage Artists Tent
Island Inspired Food
Tiki Drinks and Beer
The Secret Garden
Music, More
24-hour security

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7906

Funky Ferndale Art Fair

September 18 - 20
Ferndale, Michigan

Nine Mile Road West of Woodward

Fri. 3pm-7:30pm, Sat. 10am-7:30pm, Sun. 11am-6pm

Deadline: May 17

Application fee $25 Booth fee $395-$595

Best for non-traditional work in all mediums, under $750, jewelry and fiber.

This fair attracts both traditional art fair lovers and those that did not realize that they love fine art. We focus on work that is a bit less traditional, art that invites conversation. Don't be mistaken though, it is a juried fine art fair. Work must be of the highest quality and made by the artist. Check the website to see last year's art to see how your work fits in.

Fashionable Ferndale's downtown is a thriving business community with distinctive boutiques and bistros. The lively atmosphere attracts young upwardly mobile professionals. This show is designed to provide a showcase for artists that have

work that appeals to that group. As Detroit continues its comeback, Ferndale becomes an even more desirable area.

A healthy advertising budget along with extensive marketing and news coverage brings out the art lovers. We average 40,000 shoppers attending over the weekend. You are required to have liability insurance. If you don't have a policy we can help you obtain it at $39 for the event.

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7953

Integrity Shows - Intentional events for extraordinary results.

Integrity Shows are produced by Mark Loeb of Integrity Shows. Mark is a well-connected show organizer, recognized throughout metro Detroit. Mark and his team have been organizing, consulting and operating successful events since 1982.

Integrity Shows uses a three-year jury system. Artists are guaranteed a space for 3 years provided they apply by the deadline and abide by the show rules. We adjust the size of the show accordingly to assure that half the spaces are available in any given year.

Fun events, seriously

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.