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September 7 & 8 
Louisville, KY
Downtown on the Ohio River at Waterfront Park
Presented By: B4B Promotions
200 Artists
Deadline: May 10
Notification Date: May 31
Application Fee: $25 Booth Fee: $425 - $650
The inaugural Big Four Arts Festival was the most attended (50,000+) two-day event ever held at Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn which consists of four acres of tree-lined walks overlooking the Ohio River, a-mere two-minute drive from downtown Louisville. Better than 2 million people visit Waterfront Park annually and 25,000 stroll the Big Four pedestrian bridge each weekend. Such was the overall success of the Festival that Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau presented the Rose Award to the Festival for creating a NEW event that brought so much commerce to the city of Louisville!
Ample Parking and trolley service for our patrons. Located within walking distance to downtown Louisville's popular restaurants, Nulu District, 4th Street Live, and Whiskey Row.
The Festival is known by artists for its EZ in-out access, spacious booth layouts, and many artist amenities. With a proven multi-media advertising campaign we will produce record crowds. "Louisville Loves the Arts."
The quality juried artists will be presented in a location that was built to showcase festivals and special events. As an application incentive for this year only, all artists that are accepted by the Festival jury in 2019 will be exempt from jury in 2020.
The Big Four Arts Festival has been three years in the planning and 3 years running with 50,000+ (WDRB.estimate) attendance 2017. All this to insure a pleasant and profitable experience for all involved. Community inclusion and support for the arts has spawned a loyal and highly engaged audience that will attend and support our festival.
New this year:
- We have a Emerging Artist program that allows artist that are new to Festivals that are chosen to come in one time at 50% of booth fee. Emerging Artist (5 total) and within 50 miles of Louisville.
- Children's activities Tent sponsored by Zaxby's 2018.
- Bluegrass Music bands through out both days a low volume background music.
Marketing:
We use Facebook posting daily of our artist, Outlook (billboards), digital boards, Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau partnership, Partnership Louisville's Visitors Center, magazines Tops, Leo, Today's Woman (sponsorship), Louisville Media (radio NPR Stations)
Testimonials:
"We do about 14 art shows a year; and I can tell you that this was the BEST one we have done this year. Our sales were awesome. Your advertising paid off, because the crowd was huge. I loved the lay out - the park is beautiful. You did a wonderful job planning this event." Debbie & John Wiles, GourDesigns, Matoon, IL
APPLY & More Information: https://bigfourbridgeartsfestival.com/
Facebook: Big Four Bridge Arts Festival
Mainsail was last weekend in St. Petersburg, FL. So was Easter Sunday. That is a killjoy for any art show.
Attendence sags and so do sales.
Even the attendence In Saturday was off from the usual Numbers we see.
St. Pete is my hometown, I was born in the 1940’s there and so I have seen it come a long way.
I have done the show more than 20 times and it has always been good.
Not this year. It was down 50 percent. That is a big down.
After Ft. Worth, it was pretty anticlimactic.
The Show is held in a big semi-tree-Ed Park on the bay in downtown SP (St. Pete).
Most spaces used to be on grass. Not anymore. Mostly hardpacked dirt with blowing oak leaves crawling thru everybody’s booths.
Just Lovely. Makes you think of the Great Depression Dustbowl Days.
The SP Recreation Dept. runs the show. Probably about 200 artists. Most are setup in the blazing sun,
Hey, if you are making money who cares.
A lot of artists in all fields do very well at this show. It is not an easy one to get into.
They have serious prize money so it attracts the big hitters who mine their gold in the ribbons of Florida art shows. Almost no other state has prize money as big as the Florida shows.
So, I will give you a little play by play as how this year’s show went for me.
As if you really care.
Well, some of you care and that is good enough for me.
I got home from Ft. Worth on Tuesday and was able to have one fuckoff day on Wednesday.
On Thursday, the day before setup, I headed over to SP from NSB.
Acronyms up your ying-yangs.
I got to stay with my best bud Richard who I have known since Little League day’s of 1955.
He lives in a great sixfloor condo one block from the show.
He has 800 great bottles of wine in his coolers. I bring a couple of mine and we both imbibe thru the weekend.
Well the forecast for Setup day Friday called for strong storms and big winds during the afternoon hours.
God Bless, the Mainsail committee sent out E-mails as early as Wednesday saying they would monitor the weather closely and perhaps move up the check in time earlier then their standard one PM.
So on Thursday they mailed us that we could check in at 11am.
People were lined up by 9 am ready to go.
At 11am on the dot they opened.
We zoomed to our spots.
Mind you, even with no rain yet, the winds were 20-30 mph.
Good luck getting your roof on your canopy.
Some people did. Mostly those with pop up canopies,
I got the metal frame of my LighDome up. It took another 30 minutes to get the roof on.
I then knew if I tried to raise the canopy to display height it would take a lot of stress and possible damage.
So, I took the roof off.
Closed up the van and retreated to Richard’s to wait for the storm to pass.
I caught a few zees and woke up around 3 pm. Storm had passed and winds were acceptable to deal with.
A bunch of us got our booths up, I would say over 50 percent.
We artists are troopers, we persist thru the worst of times, usually wise-cracking and smiling at our nabs.
Had some great wine that nite—and yummy seafood.
Slept great and woke up to perfect artshow weather on Saturday.
Temp was in mid-seventies with 15-20mph winds. No humidity.
People were out early and buying. Just did not see the usual swarming crowds that you see at Mainsail.
Exhibitors were making quality sales with patrons. Their numbers were less, but they were buying big. People with high ticket prices prospered. People, like me, who need quantity, to go along with quality, were lacking.
I had a good day but it was off by 40 percent over last year.
Oh, I forgot something very important that softened my lackluster day.
At breakfest I opened up my EMails.
Shazam! I got accepted to the Saint Louis Art Fair in September. That is a biggie for me. I had not been in for six years.
Drank more great wine with Richard that nite and celebrated getting into Saint Louis.
Sunday morn. Another great weather day, no winds at all.
Mainsail always does a very nice awards breakfest on Sunday. This year it was spot on.
Being Easter, the crowd was very thin. Barely saw any numbers until about 1pm.
I made a $150 sale at 10 am and never had another sale until 3pm. I did a whopping $300 in sales.
It sucked. No buying energy.
Shows cannot schedule on Easter. It does not work.
Teardown was mellow, for Mainsail.
Got home to NSB on Monday, and had a great fuckoff day.
I have one more Florida show in two weeks. The Fernandina Shrimp and Art Fest.
We head north to Saugatuck on May17, for five months.
Will keep you posted as always.
A little Postscrip.
Ellen always asks me why I continue to do What I do.
My reply is this.
I love the concept of setting up for an art show, then selling, then leaving.
I call it Take the Money and Run.
It goes back to my days in Hawaii while in the Army.
Every nite I would come down from the Army base to my oceanfront home on Banzai Pipeline and I would see all these Hippies hanging out under a banyan tree.
They were selling candles and incense . They were also sipping wine and beer and smoking delicious doobies. Believe me, I know, I stopped enough times.
I said to myself, “Would it not be wonderful if could setup outside and sell my photos. And have some fun, drink a little wine...and, whatever!”
Guess what? I am living that dream.
I am one lucky guy, 47 years later.
September 21 & 22
Park Forest, Illinois
Presented By: Tall Grass Arts Association
80 Artists
Deadline: May 5
Application Fee: $35 Booth Fee: $175
The Park Forest Art Fair is held in the Village Green of Downtown Park Forest and along Main Street. It is an outdoor fair. Most artists utilize tents but there is an overhang if an artist does not have a tent.
The Park Forest Art Fair is the second oldest, continuously juried fine art fair in the Chicagoland region. This fall, ArtFairCalendar.com conducted its 7th annual "Best Art Fair in America" survey and the Park Forest Art Fair was voted as one of the Best 50 shows.
- The show is exceptionally artist-friendly with helpers to assist with loading and reloading, distribution of bottled water all day, a breakfast both days and a dinner that is outstanding on Saturday evening.
- There are prizes totaling $3,000.
- Because Tall Grass is a not-for-profit and gets to know its artists well, it is sensitive to the impact of the costs of participating in an art fair on artists. For that reason, it has kept its registration fee at $175 through the recession and beyond. Tall Grass receives no commission from sales made at the fair.
All year the Tall Grass Gallery sells gift certificates that can only be redeemed at the 2019 Park Forest Art Fair. Artists, last year, noted that it was difficult to get away for lunch if they were maintaining their booths by themselves so the Board voted to provide artists a snack lunch.
Marketing:
The fair is promoted in many newspapers. Although newspapers are reluctant to publish stories about a fair that is located outside of their service area, if the story prominently mentioned a participating artist, newspapers were willing to publish such stories. Paid ads were also placed in several publications. It is promoted with a week of ads on WBEZ during drive time. Posters are distributed around the region and postcards distributed in print and on email. The largest new effort, last year, which will continue and be enlarged this year, was use of social media. For several months prior to the fair, Facebook carried a daily story abut one of the participating artists. Twitter and Instagram also promoted the fair. These efforts will be expanded this year.
Testimonials:
I received the acceptance letter yesterday and just wanted to say thank you! I heard about the Park Forest Art Fair through a closed art fair artists' group. The gentleman had such wonderful things to say about the show itself, the community, and about the people at the arts association who run the whole thing. Those kind of reviews speak volumes, in large part because they are uncensored- the general public doesn't have access, so there is no benefit OR detriment to the artists who choose to write up a review of an event. So, the Tall Grass Arts Association must be doing something right to inspire an artist to recommend it so highly! I am grateful and honored to have been accepted as a juried artist and am really looking forward to seeing everyone in September. Lauren Martin.
At the "Made in Chicago" market, two ladies who are TGAA volunteers were shopping my booth. After looking at my handwoven items, they suggested that I consider vending at the Park Forest Art Fair. I was flattered and said I would look into it. As I had been a customer at the PF Art Fair several times a few years ago, I knew that the quality of artists was good and that the TGAA was very active in the community. It was an honor to be a vendor this year! The Committee treats the artists wonderfully. Ellen Grenier Bevill.
Many of the artists who exhibit at the Park Forest Art Fair return again and again over the years. To express his appreciation, an exhibiting stone sculptor, originally from Zimbabwe but now working in Arizona, offered to conduct a one-week stone carving workshop prior to the art fair.
APPLY: http://tallgrassarts.org
More Information can be found on the Tall Grass website, tallgrassarts.org. Artists may apply through submission of the application that can be downloaded from the site or through Entrythingy. Artists are also welcome to call the fair coordinator, Janet Muchnik at 708-439-2424, jmuchnik@sbcglobal.net
367 Artists Walk
Park Forest, IL 60466
(708) 748-3377
Hello
As a Wisconsin resident no one can blame me for spending my winters in Fort Myers, Florida. I am looking for Art Fairs from December 2019 to April 2020.
An Art Fair that is more fun and casual be a good fit for my very colorful, whimsical art made out of recycled plastic containers. My artwork ranges between $35.00 to $450.00. I have my artwork in galleries Sanibel, Fl And Key West, Fl, but would like to try the Art Fair route. Any suggestion would be appreciated.
Jan
October 4-6
Louisville, Kentucky
Presented By: St. James Court Art Show Inc.
250 Artists
Deadline: May 1
Application Fee: $40 Booth Fee: $575
Consistently ranked as one of the top Fine Art and Contemporary Craft Shows in the country*, the St. James Court Art Show attracts 250 000 visitors annually from all across the nation who come to purchase unique handcrafted items directly from the hands that crafted them. Held annually on the first full weekend of October the St. James Court Art Show has been running continuously for over 62 years. We take great pride in the focus and importance we place on our participating artists.
The St. James Court Art Show exists to connect our artists with art enthusiasts. Our team works hard year round to ensure that the show remains to the level of expectations that our artists and guests deserve. In 2018 we invested in a marketing agency to increase our marketing and advertising efforts. Our media coverage reaches national regional and local outlets. Regional coverage includes Louisville Public Media Extol Magazine CityBeat- CiNWeekly TOPS Lexington Courier-Journal LEO Weekly Voice-Tribune Louisville Magazine StyleBlueprint as well as all local NBC CBS and ABC affiliated televisions stations. Our 2018 social media marketing accounted for a total of 1.3 million impressions on Facebook with posts reaching 641 500 thousand people nationwide. A total of $10 000 in awards is presented by the jurors to be awarded to artists where excellence is determined.
*September 2018: #12 on Sunshine Artist magazine’s Top 100 Fine Art Shows in the U.S.
Admission is free, and the event is held rain or shine. No pets please.
Testimonials: Insider Louisville called it "The MacDaddy of all art shows."
Artist Support:
NEW in 2019 Indoor Artist hospitality area with bathrooms, beverages, and snacks
Daily Artist Breakfast hosted by a St. James Court resident
Opportunity to advertise a full-color image with booth location in the official art show program
$5,000 Founder’s Award
Booth sitters available when you need them.
Water and snacks delivered by volunteers throughout the day
Name and Booth location listed on website
24-hour site security provided by Louisville Metro Police
Staggered Assigned load-in time for organized load-in with space to unload. Early morning load-in option for those with long or delicate set-ups.
IMPROVED load-out system will be followed
Free on-street parking available
Experienced, helpful, friendly staff on-site all hours of the art show.
For more info, contact:
Karen Clayton, kclayton@stjamescourtartshow.com
Karen Clayton, kclayton@stjamescourtartshow.com
For me, this is the best show in the nation for sales.
It is a five figure show for the majority of artists.
They get about 1400 applications and only 250 are picked.
Luckily, I have been in five out of the last seven years. For whatever reason, I jury really well here. And, I have gotten in with 2different bodies of work.
Here are some of the basics about the show.
- It is held on Main Street in downtown—eight blocks long.
- Seven of the blocks booths are back to back in large tents supplied by FW. Artists set up their booths complete with their own side tarps and roofs.
- One block of the show is held in an open square. Artists put up their booths out in the open. This part is called Sundance Square.
- FW is a four day show, starting on Thursday. Hours are 10 am to at least 8 pm. You can open later if you wish. Sunday the show closes at 6 pm, but this year we stayed open til 8 pm. I will explain later.
- You need good weights to anchor, this is a mucho windy show. Some gusts roll off the downtown 40 story buildings at 30 mph.
- Oh, did I mention that a half million people visit this show. And most buy something.
FW is a high rollers town. Lots of dinero from oil and gas. People here celebrate their cowboy heritage, big time. You will see patrons sporting $500 belt buckles and walking in thousand dollar cowhide boots.
- This Show is promoted by the Downtown Fort Worth Association. They market it well and have a tremendous volunteer support staff.
- Jay Downie is the show director and he runs a well-oiled machine.
- They cover everything. You have a killer artist oasis. There is a preshow dinner complete with free wine and beer.
- There is an awards breakfest on Friday and awards are handed out.
- Some artists get to setup as early as Tuesday nite. Everybody can setup on Wednesday.
- Teardown runs very smoothly, and oh, free electricity for the booth.
This Show is consistently my best show of the year whenever I get in. The bulk of my sales come in the $30-$150 range. I am a photographer who has done outdoor shows for 45 years. I am no spring chicken. But I can roar. I love it when I have three people at once trying to give me money.
Ok, OK. Enough of that, you can always read my past blogs, which are many.
So Nels how did this year go?
I thought you would never ask.
First off, I am going to do a Tequila Report. Most of you newbies do not know what a Tequila Report is, so I will explain. For many years when I have an interesting experience at a restaurant/bar I make TQ Report. Most Times They are humorous.
NELS will you get on with it!
OK, do not get so huffy.
I woke up Saturday morn and hustled more work into my booth. Usually Saturday is the best day of this show. It can be a $5-10K for many.
A friend walked by and yelled,”Nels, they cancelled the show today, lots of bad weather coming our way.” WTF! I was pissed.
So I made a plan B. I would sleep in at the hotel. At noon hustle over to Mi Cocina and consume tequilas and cervezas while watching the Masters Golf Tourney, Then take a nice long nap, get up and watch a movie on Netflix and go have dinner. A reasonable plan.
Mind you. The whole show was closed down. No exhibitor tents open, no food booths open. Around 3pm I noticed a sliver of sunshine peak thru the dark clouds. It lasted about five minutes then back to darkness. Well, fueled by agave visions and peppered tacos I decided I would open up my booth and see what came along.
There were a few people walking the street. So I peeled back my front tarps and pegged them to the corners. That way, in my figuring, an acquiring patron could get a glimpse at greatness. That is agave visions at their best when you do not have any magic mushrooms. Mind you, I was the only guy open.
Twenty minutes later, a father and son walked in. They glimpsed and bought. Shazam! A $150 sale. By then,I had attracted a fair crowd of fellow artists. They asked, “Nels are you having any luck?” I replied, “Took care of my Tequila bill and now I am working on dinner.” Minutes later the dinner bill got took care of. Sold another. I closed up and hustled back to Mi Cocina for more tequila and watched Tiger work his magic.
So How is that for a truly, true Tequila Report?
How I did at FW and maybe tell you about some of my experiences.
*FW is a long 20 hour drive for me. This year I took two and one half days to get there. I timed it so I got there early Tuesday morn so I could get a Prime parking spot in the garage. I was able to cart everything from van to my spot about 200 yards away. Got the booth up in gusty winds and went to bed.
Early Wednesday, I finished stocking the booth and got the lights up. That day we had 30mph gusts, it was a battle to secure things. The preshow dinner was a real hit. They had rare beef sliders and lobster rolls along with other fixings. Also a killer red Cabernet.
Thursday morn and we opened up to chilly weather with very mild winds. People bought at lunch and dinner time. If you make $1500 that day you are doing good.
Friday, it got fricking chilly. Opened up the booth in 48 degree weather, I think it barely got to 64 that day. I am just glad I brought a heavy jacket with a warm liner. Mind you, I had four layers on, and a lot of the locals were waltzing around in Cotten tee shirts, just a Texas spring day to them.
Friday sales were very steady all day. I stayed open til 9pm. It was worth it. All along, we had seen the weather reports. We knew it was predicted that on Saturday there was a 90 per cent chance of storms. Damn! They were right.
So Saturday I did what I told you in my TR. I was not going to have zero Saturday at FW. So far, I had observed a few salient things. First, the crowd was buying much more Lowend. Did not see a lot of big purchases go by. Second, most of them were carrying very little cash. Rare for FW. Everything was on plastic. That said, I knew Sunday would be momentous day.
This is not a Monday Show. So I awoke, Sunday hoping for a truly great day, and hoping that Tiger would win the Masters. Don’t you love it when a plan comes to true fruition? Sunday was sunny and chilly, and people were out buying. I sold all days. Had some flurries, with people lined up to give me money, This only happens at the best shows. You have to be prepared.
Heck, I was an Eagle Scout with 55 merit badges, I have always been prepared. Most artists had a great FW in spite of losing Saturday. It is just a great show to do.
I hope one day, all of you get to do it. It will take your breath away.
Aloha, I am on to Mainsail tomorrow, gonna do some serious red wine drinking with my buddy Richard who l have known since we played Little League back in 1955.
September 21 & 22Durham, North Carolina
Presented By: Durham Arts Council
140 Artists
Deadline: May 1
Notification Date: June 7
Application Fee: $30 Single Booth: 10'x10' $225, Double Booth: 10'x20' $450, Corner Space Premium: $75, Electricity: $75
Now in its 45th year, CenterFest Arts Festival is the longest running outdoor juried arts festival in North Carolina. Located in Durham's vibrant Downtown District, the event is a favorite among visual artists, performing artists and visitors. CenterFest's vibe is complemented by Durham's acclaimed "foodie" culture, dynamic entertainment and historic districts, and a cutting edge creative community.
CenterFest 2018 was ranked #56 by Sunshine Artist 2018 Fine Art Fairs. CenterFest is particularly lauded by exhibitors for its artist services amenities, including complimentary breakfast, lunch delivered to artist tents, attentive staff, abundant volunteers, booth sitters, free nearby reserved artist parking, easy load-in/load-out, overnight security, and cash merit prizes. Expected attendance at the festival is 34,000+ guests.
Marketing:
CenterFest boasts strong media partnerships with radio, television and regional newspapers, as well as marketing support from Discover Durham, Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Durham Inc.
Jury Process:
Returning artists are rejuried every three years. All artists (whether returning or new) must submit an online application with images and application fee to be considered for CenterFest 2019.
More Information: http://centerfest.durhamarts.org/
Contact: Susan Tierney stierney@durhamarts.org (919) 560-2787
I applied by accident meannint to apply to madisons show of the same name. I did notice and apply to madison but i got in to this lake forest one and Iam not sure to accept or not as the reviews i could find seem very old from 2013 and 2011 a friend sent me two others that where not great but had no date on it. If you have done or know if this show any more recent advice would help. thanks so much! I do 2D mixed media with lots of color btw.thanks again
The winners at the:
- Ranked#1 Fine Art & #1 Fine Craft Festival in the Nation – Art Fair SourceBook 2019
- Ranked # 1 Fine Art and Design Show – Sunshine Artist 2018 (La Quinta Arts Festival has been ranked #1 in the Nation for five of the last seven years.)
La Quinta Arts Festival
La Quinta, CA, a short drive from Palm Springs
March 7 – 10, 2019
Presenting 220 foremost contemporary artists in a spectacular outdoor gallery, this four day event guarantees patrons an unparalleled cultural experience. Amenities include music, performance art, and trendy food, refreshments, wine and beer.
With so much to see, you’ll want a Multi-Day Pass! Paid Valet and Self Parking available, as well as free parking throughout La Quinta village.
Stanley Arts Festival
Deadline to Apply is Friday May 3, 2019, Midnight MST
Event Dates: September 7-8, 2019
Where: The Stanley Marketplace, Colorado. An adaptive reuse aviation facility and one of the most popular venues for people to eat, drink, shop, and play on the border of east Denver and Aurora.
Highlights:
 About the Stanley Arts Festival:
CherryArts presents the 2019 Stanley Arts Festival, Saturday & Sunday September 7- 8. The Stanley Arts Festival will be a celebration of art and local flavor paired with creative experiences. Brought to you by the same team that produces the Cherry Creek Arts Festival and year-round art education programs throughout Colorado.
Now entering its 5th year, the event will feature 90 juried artist exhibitors and take place outdoors on the runway and indoors of the Stanley Marketplace facility throughout the weekend. This festival brings together artists and community members in one of the most popular venues for people to eat, drink, shop, and play in the Denver metro area.
This event is frequented by affluent younger families and excited art buyers. The surrounding Stapleton neighborhood is comprised of the 10th best-selling master-planned community in the United States and houses over 19,000 residents with an average family income above $112,000.
CherryArts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization providing access to art experiences and arts education in Colorado since 1991.
Apply Now at: www.zapplication.org
Application Deadline: Friday May 3, 2019, Midnight MST
For more information: Visit http://stanleyartsfestival.org/
Artists will be notified: Friday May 31, 2019
Booth Fee Due: Friday July 12, 2019
Last Day to Cancel and Receive 90% Booth Fee Refund: Friday July 19, 2019
Show Hours: 10am-5pm, Saturday & Sunday September 7- 8, 2019 (Hours Subject to Change)
 Questions: Email Hello@cherryarts.org
Website & Social Media:
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Well, this happened at end of March, I am a little late, because I had to make 600 pieces of art for my next three shows, and Bayou is one. Then I have Main Street Fort Worth and Mainsail.
I am blogging at a sushi bar, a good one, outside of Shreveport enroute to Ft. Worth, hereafter called FW.
Bayou is a tough show to call.
For many it can be a big winner. Especially if you have high-priced items.
If you sell in the lower, $30-$300 price range, then this show was a loser this year. Mind you, last year I made double this year, in those price points. The rich grow richer.
I have done this show over ten times. It is a long run from central Florida, easily 1200 miles.
Most years it has been acceptable to go that distance. But it can be off in many years, and this one was one.
I have blogged this show many times, so go back to them about the basic guts of the show. Know that you can turn down on Monday.
That said, on with the show.
I am getting older after doing shows for 47 years.
Formerly, I would drive 12 hours from Tampa to Lafayette, LA the first day. Stay at a Red Roof, eat either at Preajeans or the Blue Dog, Both real, authentic Cajun restaurants.
This year I gave into age.
I made it to Pensacola in seven hours from NSB, I live on the Atlantic now, go figure where this is, hint, right below Daytona.
Stay at the Baymont Inn, go eat at the Fish House. Life is good, and the fish is even better.
Then, I made it to Beaumont,TX in another seven hours. Found a great liquor store, got some Knob Creek
and then went into a great Cajun restaurant.
Next day, I was into Houston in a hour in one half.
Checked in, and was setting up at 10 am.
Took my time.
This a three day show.
When I got done I headed back to our hotel, where Check-in is also. Hampton Inn, great rate and a bus
ride to the show every day.
So for years I had spotted this restaurant called Bubbas. Always wondered what it was about. Finally went in.
Well, shit on a brick, I had the most important alcoholic revelation of my life time.
For you loyal followers, let us call this portion a Tequila Report. For the rest of ya, lazy-up and do some research on MY past blogs. There is a lot of treasure there.
On with the Tequila Report.
”How I met the most amazing bartender, ever, who can do magic tricks with multiple bottles of beer.
There!
Gotcha.
So I went into a Bubbas after setting up. I just wanted something cold and a little snack.
I was meeting Vic for dinner, so I just needed a little snack, with a libation.
Up walks my historic bartender.
I do not remember her name, but she was ample.
I ordered, one lowly beer and some food.
Next I know a pile of thirsty patrons rode in.
Then, I saw history happen.
She got an order for four bottled beers.
She picked them out of the ice and pressed them against her ample bosom.
She took the bottle capper and went—pop, pop, pop, pop,! All in one second.
It was electrifying.
The another order came in and she did it again.
I make her to be the Wyatt Earp of Houston, Texas.
Regulars tell me they come in here all afternoon just to watch her beerly-eruptions.
Well, for me, that became the high point of this whole show.
I made 59% less then last year. Bummer.
During The Show I saw at least 60 high priced 2-d pieces go by me in the $3-$10000 range.
High priced art sold here, Houston has big walls.
Weather was a factor here and it kept the crowds down.
Oh well, I have Fort Worth this week, and it has never been a let-down yet.
Pray for me. I need Devine intervention.
We all know it is all about the marketing. I'm on a bunch of show's mailing lists so I receive PR regularly. An art fair that has great communication skills is Artisphere in Greenville, S.C. I'm posting their latest email to inspire other show organizers.
Seems they haven't missed a thing. Right? Can you show me another show's emails that are as good?
October 4 - 6
Waterford, Virginia
Presented By: Waterford Foundation
125 Artists
Deadline: April 16
Application Fee: $30; Booth Fee: $500 and up
The fair takes place in the National Historic Landmark village of Waterford. Streets are closed. Both indoor and outdoor space is available.
The 15,000+ visitors who attend annually enjoy strolling through the streets, touring homes, learning about the artisans and their work and purchasing their wares. Fair organizers cater to all artistic preferences and budgets of the attendees. The result is a tasteful selection of juried high-quality, handmade products in twelve (12) media categories.
Founded in 1733, Waterford is situated in western Loudoun County - DC's wine country. For the 10th year in a row, Loudoun County, Virginia, has been named the No. 1 county in America for median household income, this year coming in at $134,464, according to U.S. Census Bureau reports. The second highest rated county, Fairfax, is our easterly neighbor.
Over the years, artisans have come to appreciate the warmth of the Waterford welcome and the support they receive from our well-educated and loyal clientele, villagers and volunteers. Many stay with local residents, forgoing hotels and the associated expenses.
New this year:
We are accepting contemporary artisans! Works eligible for exhibition and sale include traditional and contemporary basketry, clay, fiber/textile, heritage foods, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media/other, paper and wood.
Marketing Plan:
Our marketing campaign is extensive. Working with a PR firm that specialized in large events, our promotions cover the Mid-Atlantic region and includes but are not limited to the following:
* Radio coverage in both the DC Metro and Western Virginia/Eastern West Virginia areas
* Promotional displays in all 11 Virginia State Welcome Centers
* Social media coverage for general event and individual artisans' promotion
* Email campaign to over 14,000 Foundation members and area residents
* Ticket sales promoted through Eventbrite and Wegmans Stores
* TV promos on local DC metro area stations
* Newspapers, magazine and online advertising (Wash Post, TripAdvisor, Virginia Living, AAA, etc.)
* "Save the Date" cards sent to artisan as jpeg/pdf for own use promoting to their customer base
* Poster and rack card distribution to county businesses including 45+ wineries and breweries
* 75' banner on Dulles Greenway (toll) and 10' sign at village entrance; daily exposure 20,000+ drivers
* Collaboration with Visit Loudoun and the Virginia Tourism Corporation to further our reach
Testimonials:
"I drove 1,680 miles round trip to participate in the 2018 74th Annual Waterford Fair and I can say without hesitation, it was worth every mile. The autumn season is a popular time for fairs, but this is the one you want to be at.
The historic town of Waterford provides the perfect backdrop, and the show organizers and volunteers could not have been more accommodating and professional. Visitors were plentiful, sophisticated, and enthusiastic spenders, and host a kid's activity and offering live artisan demonstration at the booth drove traffic, definitely increase sales, and created an energy, excitement, and level of engagement with the visitors that few shows can match. The caliber of artist was impressive, and our neighboring artisans couldn't have been more professional, supportive during set-up and show hours, and fun to be with; we left with new friends, and promises to return next year.
As Artists, our time and resources are limited, so we need to pick shows carefully, but this is a pick that pays-off. Great venue, great people, great exposure, great energy, and strong sales. Hope to be back next year, and hope to see you there!" from a Galena, IL based artisan."
The Waterford Fair is open to demonstrating artisans who produce fine goods, crafted using materials and tools traditionally used in America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Goods may be traditional or contemporary in style. We are looking for both seasoned and innovative, young artisans. All work must be original in concept and design and be made and displayed by the artisan. All displayed work must be for sale, with prices clearly marked. Artisans may also take orders for works but must work directly with purchaser.
More Information: waterfordfairva.org
August 3 & 4Detroit, Michigan
Belle Isle
Belle Isle
Sat. 10am-7pm; Sun. 11am-5pm
100 artists
Deadline: April 22, midnight EST
Application fee: $25; Booth fees start at $355
One of the countries most beautiful art fairs on an iconic island park across from an amazing fountain. Held on beautiful Belle Isle State Park near downtown Detroit, the show attracts people
from all over the region that love the ambience.The Belle Isle Art Fair attracts a large diverse audience from the city and beyond. The audience is a mix of suburbanites and city dwellers with the budget and appreciation to buy art. Popular for both traditional and some edgier work. All price points do well.
Belle Isle is a beautiful island State Park in the Detroit River. Tens of thousands of people come out on summer weekends. The show is near the entry bridge across from the stunning Scott Fountain, with ample parking nearby.
Learn more: www.BelleIsleArtFair.com
September 6 & 7Indianapolis, Indiana
Sponsored by the Penrod Society
350-375 Artists
Deadline: May 3rd
Application Fee:
$30/$45; (extra $15 fee for Evening with Penrod participation)
$30/$45; (extra $15 fee for Evening with Penrod participation)
Space fee: (10' x 10') $325; double booths (10' x 20') $650; gallery booths (10' x 20') $900
Please join The Penrod Society on Saturday, September 7, 2019, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, at Newfields, A Place for Nature & The Arts at the Indianapolis Museum of Art in Indianapolis, Indiana, for the 53rd annual Penrod Arts Fair!
The Penrod Arts Fair is an Indianapolis institution and a tradition cherished by patrons and exhibitors alike as one of the largest and best single-day, outdoor art fairs. Come join us this fall, and see why the Penrod Arts Fair is truly "Indiana's Nicest Day!"
A select number of interested applicants will be invited to participate in our seventh annual "Evening with Penrod" event, which features artists booths, local food, beverages, and performing art. "Evening with Penrod" will take place in the 
Yellow artist area of the Fair grounds the night before the Fair, Friday, September 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. Evening with Penrod patrons will wind their way through the Yellow artist area before ending inside the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
Yellow artist area of the Fair grounds the night before the Fair, Friday, September 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. Evening with Penrod patrons will wind their way through the Yellow artist area before ending inside the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
Saturday, July 13Fenton, Michigan
Presented By: Southern Lakes Parks Recreation
75 Artists
Deadline: April 13
Application Fee: $10 Booth Fee: $40
Fenton ArtWalk will take place along Leroy Street in beautiful and historic downtown Fenton, Michigan.
Providing a day of art, entertainment and fun to Fenton and the surrounding areas. We are in our 9th year of the Fenton ArtWalk and working on improving the quality of artisans and entertainment every year.
New this year: We have adjusted our hours (10am-7pm) and will be making major improvements for our set up time and procedures.
We will be sharing our event on our website, social media, television, billboards, and printed material.
For more information, please visit www.slpr.net and find ArtWalk under the Events Tab.
APPLY: http://www.slpr.net
Email Address: FentonArtWalk@slpr.net
September 27 - 29
Decatur, Alabama
Presented By: River Clay Foundation
75 Artists
Deadline: April 3
Notification Date: April 20
Application Fee: $35 Booth Fee: $150
APPLY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7478
Located in the beautiful Tennessee Valley, Decatur, Alabama is a burgeoning arts community whose City Hall campus is surrounded by Alabama's largest Victorian historic district and a picturesque, revitalized downtown complete with numerous bistros, restaurants and unique retail boutiques. The city of Decatur is conveniently located midway between Nashville and Birmingham. You'll find Huntsville, home of NASA, Redstone Arsenal and numerous technology/engineering firms boasts the highest per-capita level of education and income in Alabama, just 25 minutes to the east.
Now in it's 5th year, the River Clay Fine Arts Festival remains a big hit with artists and collectors in the venerable Southeast fine art festival schedule! Our past participating artists reported great sales, exceptional organization and unparalleled volunteer assistance.
New for 2019:
We're eagerly anticipating the opening of the new Cook Museum of Natural Science in June. Located directly across the street from River Clay, the multi-million dollar Cook Museum is expected to bring in several hundred thousand visitors per year and we're expecting additional traffic for River Clay.
We're eagerly anticipating the opening of the new Cook Museum of Natural Science in June. Located directly across the street from River Clay, the multi-million dollar Cook Museum is expected to bring in several hundred thousand visitors per year and we're expecting additional traffic for River Clay.
Marketing:
The majority of our River Clay budget is used in marketing this festival. Our support system includes the City of Decatur, the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, the Decatur/Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, McComm Group, EatDecatur (restaurant association), Athens State University, Alabama Center for the Arts, Calhoun Community College, numerous local industry and corporate entities allowing the award-winning* professional River Clay marketing team to aggressively promote this event.
* Awarded an American Advertising Federation North Alabama Gold ADDY Award in 2016 and named the Decatur Morgan County Tourism Event of the Year for 2018.
Testimonial:
Very professionally run from application, to set up, to load out. The artists are appreciated with an exceptional party with patrons, not to mention they provide us lunches! The art is exceptional, and show is well balanced... they appreciate fine art and artists! ... Roger Poer, Designs by R & R
Artist Amenities:
- Indoor restrooms for artists
- Air-conditioned hospitality center (water, snacks, swag bag, etc.)
- Artist helpline/liasons
- Booth sitters available
- Breakfast and lunch, both Saturday and Sunday for artist and one assistant
- Easy check in, volunteer help for load-in and load-out
- Close, free parking
- Tax booth on site
- Artists will have an active link from the River Clay site to their artist website and will also be provided with information to drive customers to their booth
APPLY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7478
More Information: https://www.riverclay.org
September 21 - 22
Naperville, Illinois
Presented By: Naperville Art League
APPLY TODAY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7034
10am - 5pm
135 Artists
Deadline: April 1
Notification Date: May 12
Jury Fee $35 until 3/26; $65 3/26 to 4/1; Booth Fee $450, 10 x 12
We invite you to apply to our juried art exhibition and sale, which is held along the renowned Naperville Riverwalk and downtown city streets. The Riverwalk, considered to be one of the most beautifully maintained park grounds in the Midwest, features plants, trees, fountains and covered bridges along side a winding brick walkway. This paved path is a natural showcase for many of the sculptures and artwork commissioned by Naperville's Century Walk committee. As the focal point of downtown Naperville, it is a delightful setting for a Fine Art Fair. Visitors travel from far and near to enjoy the splendor of the riverwalk and the quaint restaurants and shops in downtown Naperville. On the third weekend in September we add to the ambiance with an outstanding display of the finest in visual arts.
The Riverwalk Fine Art Fair is in the center of a sophisticated, art conscious community, with highly educated, affluent patrons. The show is heavily promoted through newspaper features and inserts, billboards, posters, and paid advertising. Thousands of postcards are sent to previous and potential buyers and an estimated 74,000 festival goers attend this highly anticipated show.
Amenities:
- Best of Show Award: One recipient receives $1,000 cash award and an invitation to return in 2019.
- Awards of Excellence: Ten artists will receive a $250 cash award (based on the highest average scores of our judges) and an invitation to return in 2020.
- Honorable Mention Awards: Four artists will receive a $100 cash award (based on judges' scores) and an invitation to return in 2020.
- Artists are invited to set up on Friday any time after 11:00 am. If an artist would like to set up earlier than 11:00 am, please call the show director and special arrangements will be made.
- Artist Reception: All participants are invited to the artist reception and award presentation on Saturday, September 21.
- Complimentary continental breakfast for artists on Saturday and Sunday.
- Estimated attendance of over 70,000.
- Overnight security officers patrol the park on Friday and Saturday.
- Electricity is available in limited areas at no extra charge. Artist must indicate the need in the application. Determination will be made on a winning artist/returning artist/new artist priority.
- Roving and on-demand booth sitters are available to assist the artists.
- Delivered box lunches available for purchase on both days.
- Complimentary bottled water for artists.
- Unlimited complimentary invitation postcards.
- Marketing materials feature artwork from select, accepted artists.
- Booth sign identifying artist, category, city and state.
- Promotional Riverwalk Fine Art Fair booklet distributed to over 40,000 homes and businesses listing artists and their mediums, to include color images, booth map and helpful information for festival goers.
- Food lines for "artists only" at food vendors.
- Curb-side unloading and loading on main street.
- Roomy booths with storage space behind them and some with space on both sides.
- Artist-only parking close to the fair during show plus reserved overnight parking for large vehicles and trailers. We will keep you updated!
- A strong volunteer staff dedicated to making the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair an artist's favorite show.
APPLY TODAY: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=7034
More Information: http://www.napervilleartleague.com/rfaf.html
