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Here's your chance to help run of the nation's best known art fairs. I know you've got the important experience of knowing a lot about art events. Do you meet these qualifications? Or if you know of anyone who might be artist-aware, detail-oriented, full of boundless energy, and willing to work full-time the few weeks leading up to Art Fair read on for the job description:

The Artist Coordinator position is a part-time position reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with interns during the summer months. The primary focus of this position is to coordinate the aspects of the organization that relate to the participation of artists and art activities in the Street Art Fair and Townie Street Party. Additionally, the position will include some graphic design and social media responsibilities. Hours are flexible around specific deadlines and prescribed time-frames, increasing as the Art Fair approaches each July. Full-time is expected immediately leading up to the Art Fair. Working the events is mandatory and overtime is paid.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

APPLICATION MANAGEMENT / MARKETING:

  • -  Review and manage incoming applications using an on-line application management system.

  • -  Work with ED to publicize the Street Art Fair to artists and increase applications.

    ARTIST COMMUNICATIONS:

  • -  Create and send correspondence regarding artists acceptance.

  • -  Correspond with artists and manage pre-fair requests.

  • -  Track artists’ financial status.

  • -  Manage on-site artist registration.

  • -  Manage on-site artist needs.

    ARTIST DEMONSTRATIONS

- Coordinate and oversee artist demonstration program.

ARTZONES:
- Identify and coordinate partnering organizations to host interactive art activities during the

Townie Street Party and Art Fair. GRAPHIC DESIGN:

- Complete miscellaneous in-house graphic design projects.

JURY PROCESS:

  • -  Communicate with Jury Advisory Board to coordinate their participation in February and July

    jury process.

  • -  Identify and correspond with guest Jurors.

artfair .org 721 E. Huron Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734.994.5260

1

  • -  Organize and complete February Jury process.

  • -  Organize on-site Jury process: coordinating Jury Advisory Board, Awards Jurors, and Peer Jurors.

  • -  Tabulate scores from February Jury and On-site Jury.

  • -  Organize and oversee the Artist Awards Program.

    YOUTH ART FAIR:

- Coordinate and supervise all aspects of the Youth Art Fair held during the Townie Street Party,

including the jury process and mentoring program, working in conjunction with a seasonal intern.

NEW ART, NEW ARTIST PROGRAM (NANA):

  • -  Market program to Michigan colleges.

  • -  Manage application and jury process.

  • -  Conduct information sessions for New Artists and facilitate the mentoring program.

  • -  Oversee all aspects of NANA artists’ participation in Fair as appropriate.

    WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA:

  • -  Maintain up-to-date Artist Directory on web site.

  • -  Create and post content on social media as applicable.

  • -  Create and send periodic E-Newsletters via Constant Contact.

    ON-SITE:

  • -  Work with other staff to lay-out the events, with primary emphasis on the artist booths.

  • -  Supervise load-in and load-out.

  • -  Communicate with artists and solve problems as they arise.

  • -  Enjoy the fruits of you labor!

    QUALIFICATIONS

  • -  Previous event experience.

  • -  Previous graphic design experience.

  • -  Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

  • -  Ability to multi-task.

  • -  Self directed with the ability to problem-solve and obtain positive outcomes under pressure.

  • -  The ability to work both independently and as a member of a small but dedicated team.

  • -  Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage complex database programs.

  • -  Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs including Word, Excel and Access.

  • -  Proficiency with computer design programs such as Illustrator and Photoshop.

  • -  Bachelor’s degree preferred.

  • -  Fine arts study a plus.

    Hourly compensation is based on experience.
    To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to mriley@artfair.org
    . No phone calls, please. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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4 Days to deadline: Garage Sale Art Fair

3041f968-6a2f-4440-8f98-dd41eb109fc8.jpg February 23
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Kalamazoo Expo Center and Fairgrounds
Presented by Road Wife Productions LLC 
(Bonnie Blandford & Michael Kifer)

9:00am-4:00pm
145+ artists depending on the number of double booths
Deadline: October 1

Application Fee:  $20
Booth Fees: start at $175: 10'x10'; $262: 15'x10': $350: 20x10

Why go to Kalamazoo in February?
 
5658759a-17fd-4544-b825-685dfc702d2a.jpgIt's 7 hours of as much fun as we can make it and the focus is all on helping you sell your work. This is the show to sell your leftovers, seconds, the last one left and those pieces that only you love at a discount.  

Along with your art, you're welcome to sell items you've traded for over the years and some supplies although the work you applied with must be primary in your booth.  

No buy/sell.

In 2018 we had 5,000 people come through the show ($5 paid admission so we know exact numbers). Weather is rarely an issue, they are lined up and waiting and sometimes the doors are opened early to accommodate the crowd.

Rent a couple of tables, make some fun signs and sell it! 


                 Learn more:  www.GarageSaleArtFair.com 
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9fbab1d9-a67c-4304-aa6b-c892f330ec2f.png November 17 to December 22
Evanston, Illinois
Presented by the Evanston Art Center
150 Artists
Deadline: October 1

Application Fee: $35
The Evanston Art Center's 16th Annual Winter Arts + Crafts Expo features original, handmade arts and crafts by over 140 selected artisans. We feature original, handmade works of jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, painting, photography, mixed-media, and more. This month-long event attracts visitors all over the Midwest region.
 
The Art Center has open gallery space available for this event. The Expo is a group show, and as such, there are no booth spaces. Each artist's inventory will be identified and displayed on an approximately 20x30 inches tabletop space or the equivalent area on the wall or floor. Extra inventory for each artist will be stored and then displayed as merchandise is sold. 
 
The Expo staff will make all decisions regarding placement and display. Since this is not a booth show, artists will not be required to be present to conduct sales.  The Expo relies on volunteers to run the show. We have found that the artists who are present during the show contribute greatly to the professional atmosphere of the galleries and increase the sales of their own work by being able to talk to customers about their craft and process. We encourage each participating artist (who lives in the area) to volunteer three, 3-hour shifts during the show.



                                                   ~~~~~~~~~~~~
Find more art fairs looking for you and your art: www.CallsforArtists.com

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Law

Hello;

I took a few photos of costumed people in a pubic parade, and made big posters of them. Is it with my right to sell these? I can't find (or even know by sight) the persons who were dressed in those costumes...

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Two "Edward" Shows - Hidden Gems in the Midwest

I just did two great shows in the midwest that I had not heard of before this year.  One was Edward's Place Fine Art Fair in Springfield, IL, September 15th and 16th and the other was Edwardsville Art Fair, in Edwardsville, IL September 21-23rd in Edwardsville, IL outside of St. Louis.  

Edward's Place Fine Art Fair has been going on for 30 years and I think I just never looked for shows that weekend before because of previous commitments.  But it turns out this show fits a lot of the criteria of what makes for a really great show for me- small show, run by an art center or art group, and in a community that doesn't have too many other art buying opportunities (I call this an "art starved community").

The setting for this show was on the lawn of a historic building turned into art center. Set up for me was super easy because I was the first booth- just pulled right up and unloaded.  Other booths had to haul in.  They had great crowds the entire time including Sunday morning.  I did a bunch of sales before it even opened at 10:00 on Sunday!  The weather was hot and humid but I still had nonstop traffic. 

I also loved their new concept on the "kid tent" they called it "Kidz Picks" and encouraged artists to set aside some work for under $8 for kids to purchase in their booth rather than send it off to a separate location.  This was a great way to do a little studio clearance and get kids into buying art.  I thought it worked great and didn't impact sales in any negative way- if anything it was a big positive to bring young families into my booth.  I actually think this concept will help encourage more families which is a what we all need to build this business into the future.  I didn't hear from many other artists as to how sales were because I was so busy- my neighbor with jewelry was happy though.  One other artist that I saw the next weekend said they had a slow Sunday. 

The next weekend I was heading down to the area once again but about an hour further south for the Edwardsville Art Fair.  This show is only in it's 5th year but they really know what they are doing.  Another artist recommended it last year and I will now recommend it to every artist I know.  I talked to the director and she said they want to grow the show but hopefully she will take my advice to keep it under 120 booths.  At this point there are 90.  The quality is mixed so I am sure they will continue to build in that area.  My sales at this show were once again constant and ranging from $5 to $425.  The hours are long on Saturday but shoppers were out the whole time with maybe a little lull around 3:00 or 4:00.  The close time at 3:00pm on Sunday was really nice for those of us needing to get some miles on after the show.  There were still customers at that time but at least I felt like I could start to tear down as needed. 

I haven't even touched on the amazing hospitality- meals served at our booth everyday!!  And good food too! On Saturday afternoon they gave me the best chocolate chip cookie I've ever had!  The judging was also really fair.  They had a new take- the judges had sticker that they could place near a favorite piece of art so they were able to spread their "Love" all over the whole show.  This helped sales too!  Plus they have enough sponsors to give out some serious cash! 

While chatting with the director she told me one thing they did with their advertising was to place ads in the programs of other art fairs in the area.  Once she told me that I realized that I had definitely seen those results- a lot of patrons asked me about other shows I would be in and said they go to all the shows.  And several customers called themselves "collectors".  Talking to other artists it sounds like they saw the benefits too! 

The other thing that really stood out to me at this show was how gracious everyone was.  I was thanked over and over again for coming there by the volunteers, board members AND many many customers!  I've never in all my 25 years of shows felt so overwhelmingly appreciated! 

If you are looking to do a couple of shows next September just remember to check out the "Edwards" shows in Illinois- both were amazing for me so hopefully they will be for you too!

  

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Another art fair hit by the economy

Back in 2008 and 2009 when the economy was hit by the "great recession" many events closed up shop for economic reasons. But its' been awhile since I've heard of any more. Then today I read that a 26 year old art fair in St. Joseph, MO, Trails West!, held annually since 1993 had been suspended.

The organizers cited increased costs of producing the festival, not a surprising reason considering the inflation since 1993 and the security costs incurred since 9/11. But the second reason was one we talk about among ourselves (e.g., art fairs aren't like they used to be) the changing  of consumer behavior.

Learn more: http://www.kbia.org/post/st-joseph-group-suspends-its-annual-art-festival#stream/0

How are you dealing with how people do/don't buy art?

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Call for Artists: One of a Kind Show+Sale - Spring

SPRING 2019  |  APRIL 26-28

1133d15f-4d28-4320-bbb1-b385ddcbc569.gif
 
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Applications for the 2019 Spring Show are now open!
Deadline: October 10, 2018
 
 

The 4th annual One of a Kind Spring Show is a 3-day show, held from April 26-28 indoors at The Mart in Chicago, featuring fine art and craft from a juried selection of participants. We invite artists, designers and makers with high quality, handmade, original work to apply to be a part of the One of a Kind Spring experience!

Apply via zapplication.org. For acceptance criteria and booth package details, please visit oneofakindshowchicago.com or get in touch with us:

Kathleen Hogan

khogan@themart.com
312.527.7642

Erin Hartz
ehartz@themart.com
312.527.7757

THE MART - CHICAGO

 
 
 
One of a Kind Show and Sale® Chicago
theMART | A Vornado Property | 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza | Suite 470 | Chicago, IL 60654
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How Do You Relax Off Season

I'm off for two weeks taking a road trip to Reno, NV camping and visiting hot springs to and fro. This was Spencer's Hot Spring: 105 degrees in stock tank in Big Smokey Valley, east of Austin, NV. It's just about in the middle of NV.  We spent all yesterday morning on dirt roads south of US 50 and the Suburban looks not quite like it has been to Burning Man LOL. 

 8869187056?profile=original

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Call for Artists: Artisphere

artisphere May 10 - 12
Greenville, South Carolina
135 Artists
Presented By: Artisphere
Deadline: October 4
Application Fee: $35   Booth Fee: $400

Despite its short history, Artisphere has distinguished itself as both a national and regional highlight.  A supportive, art-loving community, beautiful setting, and over 500 volunteers make Artisphere an enjoyable experience for 135 exhibiting artists.
b7c63724-6e5e-4f16-ae41-efab878bd352.jpg
In addition to a Purchase Awards Program that provides an average of $10,000-$12,000 in art sales Artisphere distributes $15,000 in prize money to eleven award winners each year.
 
Average artist sales: $9,100
Renowned artist hospitality includes:
  • Convenient set-up and load-out
  • Parking, security
  • Reduced hotel rates
  • Volunteer booth sitters and complimentary meals  
Artisphere's multi-media advertising campaign markets the festival throughout the Southeast region in print ads, print and digital ads in national travel and leisure publications, and regional radio & television ads.  Artisphere is also marketed through festival brochures, social media, the Artisphere website
and billboards.

   

More Information: www.artisphere.org
Contact: Robin Aiken  Robin@artisphere.org     (864) 271-9355
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8ddaa513-8569-49fd-abd8-2a8b117ed9a1.jpg
March 7-10
LaQuinta, California
Presented By: LaQuinta Arts Foundation
220 Artists
Deadline: September 20
Application Fee: $50   Booth Fee: $275-$850

LaQuinta Arts Festival is held on the spectacular grounds of the La Quinta Civic Center Campus, a life-size picture postcard framed by majestic mountains, lush green lawns, and a lake. This spectacular outdoor gallery is extolled by Art Fair SourceBook as "the most stunning festival site in the country".
dd89c1dc-3026-428b-81aa-79a361010080.jpg Hosting 220 of the nation's foremost contemporary artists, this four day show attracts an affluent demographic and wealthy snowbirds who have second homes in the southern California desert. The festival runs concurrent with the HITS Horse Show which attracts the most accomplished equestrian riders in the world and is the first weekend of the BNP Tennis Open. Artists will need to book accommodation far in advance. 

An extensive marketing plan reaches residents of the Coachella Valley as well as targets the California coast. Our goal is to bring the right demographic to La Quinta Arts Festival that will enjoy as well purchase the art. Over $3.3 million in art has been sold in both 2017 and 2018 which proves we reach the right audience.

Testimonials:
f66df903-bdc2-4604-94b3-808c2c65bba0.png La Quinta Arts Festival has been ranked #1 Fine Art Festival in the Nation by Art Fair SourceBook 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 and #3 Fine Art Festival in the Nation by Art Fair SourceBook 2016, 2017.
 
Please note: La Quinta Arts Festival requires the Artist to pay a show fee of 20% of all art sales made at, or as a result of participating in La Quinta Arts Festival. A low booth fee of $275 for a 12x12 space means minimal up-front investment to participate, and allows LQAF to be successful only if the artists are successful. The 220 participating Artists are the stars of our show. Art patrons come for the high quality art!

More Information: 
Artist Helpline - 760-564-1244 ext. 112, helpline@LQAF.com,  www.LQAF.com
Contact: Kathleen Hughes  Kathleen@LQAF.com

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Anyone live near Bayfield WI?

I need an assistant for Bayfield Apple Festival October 5th- 7th. If you live near there and can assist me that weekend in my booth, please reply here and/or with an email address. I will pay you 10% of my gross, or some other mutually agreed-upon rate. 

Thanks to all.

Larry Sawyer

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The Show was last weekend.  Three boring days with no sun, cold temps and fleeting rain showers.

Last weekend was a weather disaster everywhere in the Midwest. Heavy rains at Penrod, Bowling Green, Louisville, even St. Louis.

Rochester is a very affluent northwest suburb of Detroit.  Mucho dinero live here.  Everybody dresses in expensive outfits adorned with expensive purses and belts.

In earlier times AA was one of the top Michigan shows. Lots of artists did five figures very easily.

My, how the times have changed.  For most 2-D artists selling even close to $3K is tough chore.

Crafters have better chance.  Especially, ones with low price points.

This monied crowd tends to buy kitschy stuff on the Lowend side.

They are very conservative here in their tastes.

I have done this show at least a dozen times.  And every time I do it the take home sales get smaller and smaller.

This weekend’s take was so small that I would have to use a magnifying glass to see it.

Over three days, I only sold three 16x20 framed pieces.  Nothing larger.

The bulk of sales came out of my browse bins. As fellow photographer Bill Sargent would say, “I sold little precious pieces of paper.”

Here are some hard facts about the show if you consider to do it. And, for many of you, it could be a good money-maker.

You get to setup the day before, Thursday.  Or come in on Friday to setup.

The Show starts at 4pm on Friday and goes til 7:30.

On Saturday, hours are 10am-7:30pm.

Sunday, hours are 10am-4pm.

Booth fee for a single booth is close to $500.

This is a show run by the Paint Creek Center for the Arts.  You can find it on Zapp.

There are at least 300 exhibitors, and jurying is very competitive.

The thing is, when I know good artists that get juried out, and then see what gets in, it makes my head spin.

They do a great job of mapping out the show.  Every space gets ample rear storage.  Many artists move their booth over to the line on one side so that gives them some wiggle, and display room, on the other side.

The Show is held in a great inner city park in the heart of Rochester. A running creek, Paint Creek, runs thru it.

There are two main sections of the show.  One on a lower level, the other on the upper.  

I prefer the upper section.  Just me.

Parking can be a bitch.  It pays to get there early.

For example, on Sunday, I got there at 6:30am. Got the van situated in Position A.  I had three and a half hours to kill.  So I did my usual Sunday strategy. Which is:get the New York Times at a Starbucks (I can easily spend three hours reading it.  Then I walk three blocks to Paul’s Greek restaurant for breakfest.

By 10am I am well read and well fed.

Ready to make mucho dinero, and none named Robert.

Sorry, but I spent another hour adding on to this post after I had saved to this point.  It is all in the ether.

 OK, it is Tuesday morning. I am going to paraphrase all that got lost in the ether last night.

God, I hate doing this twice, but I will do it for you readers.  I have good info to dish out.

  As I was saying....

So Sunday I opened up to chilly weather, in the low 50’s. Very windy which made it colder.

I tarped in all three sides of my rear storage which made a nice little warm cocoon free from the winds.

Almost nobody was there til about noon.  People trickled in walked around and occasionally walked in a booth.

I was mostly ignored.

I had my black and white handcolors up of famous iconic figure like Bill Murray and Christopher Walken.

I would get giggles, laughs and colorful comments then they would move on. It went that way til close of show.  I barely sold $400 for the day.

The woodworker behind me sold one small piece the whole day. A respected glass artist across from me mostly sold little glass balls, he was not happy.

Overall, most people were disappointed with their sales. Many were 50% off from before.

There were successful artists out there.  Many had kitschy Lowend items.  Certain jewelers killed them.

like I said before, this is a conservative crowd.  They are well-monied but I do not see them buying much good art.

I tore down completely on the ground and got a red pass to come in.  I was out of there by 5:15, they did not let us in til 4:30.

It started raining lightly just after I escaped.

I am done with this show.

But, it could be a winner for some of you.  I try to give an impartial comments about the shows I do.  I realize my audience is not the same for a lot of you.  I sell to a niche market, and I realize it can have its shortcomings.

OK, good places to eat.

Pauls Restaurant right on the main drag, walking distance from show.

They are Greek.  You know Greeks do great breakfest from omelette stop crepes.

For a great dinner go west on Walton to Luckys Prime Rib.  In my humble opinion they are the best restaurant in Michigan for moderate price points under $20.

Try the filet for $19. Comes with a delicious loaf of bread, a salad plus one side.

They offer five kinds of fish, all under twenty dollars. They poor a mean martini for Seven.

Aloha, time to play golf.

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Show: Estes Park Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show 2018, Location: Estes Park, Colorado 
Dates: September 1-3, 2018
Fees: Jury/Booth $325, Online filing $15
My medium: leather

    Estes Park is the gateway to the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park.  There are many summer homes in the surrounding mountains and Valleys and it is a popular destination for metro Denver. You also encounter a broad spectrum of income levels, and a lot of foreign visitors. I have been doing this show continuously since 2010.  I also do the Memorial Day show in May.  The show is produced by the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary, Inc.  The Labor Day crowd is large and there is a constant flow of patrons through the show.  The show hours were 9-5 Saturday and Sunday and 9-3 on Monday.

 

SET UP AND TAKE DOWN

      One hundred five booths are set up around the perimeter of Bond Park and in the parking lot in front of the Town Hall. People with trailers were given an option of starting set up at 7:30 Friday morning and could drive to their sites. I was there before 8:00 and could unload a few spaces from my spot.  Later in the morning, artists parked in designated areas and Rotary volunteers dollied artist to their sites and helped with set up. Take down was Monday at 3:00 pm. Rotarians were available to dolly artist to their vehicles in designated parking areas. Later, artists were allowed to bring in vehicles to load up. You have to have paid taxes before you got a loading permit. The Rotary volunteers are experienced and the best group of any show I attend.

      Trailers park at the fairgrounds and there is a free shuttle back to the park. Artists park on streets or in lots away from the perimeter of Bond Park.

 

ART, ARTISTS, AMENITIES, WEATHER

      There is a broad spectrum of art and craft at this show to meet the interests of a broad spectrum of visitors to Estes Park. There were high end jewelers and photographers to handmade soaps and edibles. Many of the artists have done this show for several years like me.

      The Rotary had coffee and donuts for artists every morning. There was a silent auction of donated art. Booth sitters were available.  Clean, indoor, accessible restrooms are in the Town Hall.

      Thunderstorms and wind are common at the Estes Park shows. Although thunderstorms were forecast for each day, there were only a few sprinkles. The days were pleasant in the 70’s.-

  

SALES AND ANALYSIS 

      Sales over eight years have ranged from $2.69K to $4.9K with an average of $4.14K.  I had 75 sales with an average of $57.  Belts were my best seller, but I also sold canteens, billfolds, checkbooks, suspenders, flasks, holsters, pad folios and napkin rings.  I also picked up some post show repairs and special orders.

 

FUN STUFF 

      We rented our favorite cabin with a hot tub again.  Now for the bear story.  Sunday, a bear was up in a tree by the library at one end of the show. He got down and ambled over to a hill at the other end of the show.  Sunday night he got into the toasted almonds tent. The security guy looked in the tent and found himself eyeball to eyeball with the bear before scaring it off.  There was a big bin of sugar in the tent, but he didn’t bother it.  He did slash one wall of the tent.

      I learned something about bears from the security people.  They say that the food vendors keep bears away from their stuff by putting Clorox soaked rags around their trailers, and on any ice chest kept outside. It repels the bears.

      Wildlife are a fact of life at Colorado mountain shows. Be prepared for elk, moose, bear, beaver, deer and the usual raccoons and skunks.  Don’t leave food or trash in your tent overnight.

 

Photos: 1. When the crowd was slow on Saturday

             2. Unusual large crown Sunday morning

             3. Tear in tent from bear8869185275?profile=original  8869185686?profile=original8869185889?profile=original

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f07377e4-d788-4070-8c97-87eacb88ad1b.jpg February 16, 17 & 18
Coconut Grove, Florida
Presented By:
Coconut Grove Arts & Historical Association
350 Artists
Deadline: September 17

Application Fee: $55     Booth Fee: $850

The Coconut Grove Arts Festival is held annually on the most popular weekend of the winter season in southern Florida, President's Day weekend. We welcome locals, snowbirds and international visitors to our show on the streets of Coconut Grove, a charming historic village within the City of Miami. We'll be hosting over 100,000 visitors to the show and invite you to join us.
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Artists can expect:
  • Over $45k in Awards
  • $15k in pre-purchased Art Bucks by Festival Collectors
  • 24 hour security, coffee, lunch, snacks, water and soda provided all day
  • Booth sitting, and discounted tickets available for your VIP costumers
Testimonials:

* As usual, we enjoyed the show and were happy to see that sales were up. All of     you do a good job in running the show and it has been a good one for us over       the years.

* This show was our best to date, $24,500 so far, with another meeting or two         scheduled from it. Loads of good contacts. I posted this and a review on               artfairsourcebook so hopefully I will help getting your show from #5 to #1. It       certainly is to me.

* Record show! Thank you so much. Miami loves me and I love Miami.

* I had my best Coconut grove ever. By thousands of dollars, which is amazing in     this economy. Crazy crowds with money. I did other shows during January           down here and they were all terrible. You've got an amazing show!

More Information:  www.CGAF.com
Contact:  Katrina Delgado, Katrina@cgaf.com    (305) 447-0401
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Always held on the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend.

This is one of the richest suburbs on the Chicago north shore.

They do not allow any hotels within the city limits.

I usually stay with Jim Wilbat who lives nearby in Deerfield, but he was off doing the Bloomington art fair.

So I got to stay at a Red Roof Inn in Waukegan. The city has seen better days since when Jack Benny was born there.

OK, back to LF.

I have done this show about six times. The first two times I made really good sales. Since then, I have seen a steady decline every year.  This year was the worst.  Weather played a big role in it.

The weather forecast for this show was not good.  We had high humidity coupled with stifling heat intermixed with a string of rainstorms that poured on us during setup, teardown and most of the day Monday.

It hurt our sales.  Attendance was down, and those who were walking were not buying much.  Mostly Lowend.

On Sunday I never saw one large 2D sale go by til 3:30. I saw two more and that was it.

Monday, a couple of artists got lucky but most made minemal sales.

The Show is held downtown in the heart of the shopping district.

It has about 250 booths with a hefty booth fee.  Frankly, their fee is not worth it.

I could do better selling hotdogs in a vacant lot than what I do at this show.

I did not even do $500 in sales.

All booths are on concrete, no staking in the ground.

Fire Marshal came around checking booths for fire extinguishers.

Seriously folks, in 45 years of doing shows, I have yet to see anything on fire in a booth.

Most people had some room on one side to hang art.  Most had rear storage.

The people who attend are smartly dressed while walking their pedigree dogs.

They socialize more than they buy. You get tons of complements with little dinero.

I am adding more new insights.

Ironically, while most of us had meager sales, one particular photographer, excelled—it was his best show anywhere in Chicago.

I have been following his posts on Art Fair Reviews all summer.

He has mainly done Amy Amdur shows and, failed miserably at all of them.

Lo and behold he comes to Lake Forest. First day he did about $250.  On rainy Sunday two customers walk into his booth and spend almost $4000 on photos on metal.  He made out like a bandit.  I do not know any others, but, God bless.

Also, over Sunday night the rain was severe. Several ramps off the main highway 41 were impassable, think three to four foot deep.

No wonder nobody came and bought.

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Call for Artists: 34th Annual Key West Craft Show


07f33391-7d19-43fa-bd12-d7958aff9373.jpg January 26 & 27
Key West, Florida
Historic Old Town Key West just one block off famous Duval St., near tourist attractions and Cruise Ship docks
Presented By: Key West Art Center
100 Artists
Deadline: September 15

Application Fee: $25     Booth Fee: $225-$415

The show is widely attended by locals, winter residents and tourists and is right in the middle of highly traveled historic downtown. Most attendees will walk the entire show as we are relatively compact layout for our 100 artist tents.
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The Key West Art Center is non-profit community Art Center and Gallery, promoting local artists at all levels while maintaining a historic Old Town Building.
We are a small show, run by small group of artists and try to do the best we can for our artists to be successful!

Marketing:

We advertise throughout the Florida Keys as well as South Florida using print, internet and radio. We have posters locally and hand out postcards to Guest house and hotel Concierges to distribute to guests.

We jury by combination online and person viewing a images of each artist. Jurists are Art Center members and have time to discuss applications with each other.

APPLY: http://keywestartcenter.com 

More Information:  KeyWestArtCenter.com 
Contact: Lois Songer, kwcraftshow@gmail.com  (305) 294-1243
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April 24-28
Washington, DC
cbf37753-1ba4-484f-9880-7ff53f61ebcd.jpgNational Building Museum
401 F Street, NW
Produced by the Smithsonian Women's Committee
120 Artists

New deadline due to Hurricane Florence: September 21; Application Fee $50
 
Mark your calendars for the 37th annual Smithsonian Craft Show, the most prestigious juried show and sale of American fine craft in the country.
 
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The Smithsonian Craft Show is committed to presenting the most thoughtful, original, and skilled American craft and design objects.  
 
The Craft Show is looking for artists who produce one-of-a-kind and limited edition objects that have been conceived and perfected by the artist's own hands and created in the artist's studio. 
 
All work submitted to the Smithsonian Craft Show must be created and made in the United States.  

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One hundred-twenty premier artists representing all facets of contemporary design and craft will be selected from a large pool artists nationwide.   Artists working in the following media are eligible to apply:  basketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable art and wood.
 
Please note: 
Many artists have applied to the Smithsonian Craft show in the past but jurors can only select 120 artists each year, so it is important to try again and again, especially if you have new and better images taken of your artwork.
Jurors who will select the 2019 artists are:
 
Nora Atkinson - Lloyd Herman Curator of Craft, Renwick Gallery, Smithsonian   American Art Museum
 
Jean McLaughlin - Former Executive Director, Penland School of Crafts; Board   Member  American Craft Council, North Carolina Arts Council, University of North Carolina School of the Arts Advisory Council
 
Emily Zaiden - Craft in America Center, Director and Curator
Or contact our office for more info: scooper2712@gmail.com
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Call for Artists: Art San Diego

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Art San Diego 2018 is going to be bigger and better than ever. How do we know?
  • First, we'll be celebrating Art San Diego's 10th Anniversary at the beautiful 30,000-square-foot Wyland Center in the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
  • Second, we'll be hosting renowned galleries, professional artists, and art publishers from around the world.
  • Third, Art San Diego has become one of the leading cultural events in Southern California, attracting more than 14,000 attendees. Don't miss your chance to exhibit at this amazing four-day event!
  Learn More >  


Exhibit with Acclaimed Artists and Galleries

Exhibit at Art San Diego
Looking to be in the company of admired galleries and artwork? Exhibiting at Art San Diego puts you in the best of company. With exhibitors like: Arte Collective, Coda Gallery, Sergott Contemporary Art, Gallery Edel, Jen Tough Gallery, Dellorco Fine Art and many other esteemed exhibitors, you'll be right there when you sign up to exhibit at Art San Diego. Just walking the aisles and seeing what others are doing can be the fuel to last for months.

  Apply to Exhibit >  


Make Vital Networking Connections

Art San Diego | Testimonials
Dealers meet up to 70 percent of their new and prospective buyers at art fairs. When you sign up to exhibit at Art San Diego, it's the most cost-effective way to network with affluent international buyers and arts-and-culture aficionados. Through our involvement with local art institutions, over 30 museum partners, and our presenting sponsor, UBS Financial Services, we are connected with more than 40,000 high-net-worth collectors. Exhibitors reported over $1 million in sales during last year's show. Are you ready make priceless connections and some serious sales?

  Read Testimonials >  


Save Thousands

Freight Concierge Program
When you exhibit at more than one Redwood Media Group show, we'll provide complimentary storage and shipping between shows as part of our Freight Concierge Program. Not only do you get coast-to-coast exposure, but you save thousands of dollars in the process. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on maximizing your impact and sales.

  Learn More >  

Have any questions? We're here to help. Contact Rich Ferrante at 631-388-6677 or Mark Shapiro at 203-257-5881 and they'll be happy to help you in any way possible. We hope to host you in the beautiful Wyland Center this fall!

Sincerely,
The Art San Diego Team
 

CONTACT US:
sales@art-sandiego.com

Redwood Media Group

  ASD on Twitter Art San Diego on Facebook

 
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Call for Artists: Naples New Year's Art Show

January 5 & 6

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Naples, Florida
Presented By: Naples Art Association
250 Artists
Deadline: September 9
 
Application Fee: $35    Booth Fee: $450
 
Naples, Florida is home to a robust and successful tourist industry. The county saw 1.03 million visitors in the first six months of 2017, a 1.5% increase over the same months in 2016. In the first six months of 2017, approximately 49% of visitors enjoyed shopping and 16% of visitors enjoyed attendance at an art gallery, show, festival or fair. Over 504,000 visitors enjoyed browsing and shopping for art at festivals et al. as part of their visit to Naples.
 
This juried show has openings for 250 artists looking to show in the popular seasonal destination, Naples, Florida. Show guests enjoy the set-up along the main street and can take advantage of free off-site parking for the show. The quad setup for artists affords every artist a corner booth and great visibility. Engaged shoppers, looking for that last minute purchase opportunity, make this show a great opportunity to share more of your creations.
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Marketing:

The Naples Art Association hosts one of three major downtown art shows on the elegant Fifth Avenue South in Naples, FL. A favorite show for artist enthusiasts and collectors, this show benefits from significant media coverage that includes articles written by major local print news sources. Paid advertising in print-media and communication resources includes: multiple advertisements in print publications, online advertising across the state of Florida on popular national news websites, a significant social media campaign engaging members and friends of Naples Art Association and multiple radio advertisements during the week prior to the show. The upscale Fifth Avenue South shopping and dining district is the site for this fine art and fine craft show and is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

APPLY:  http://www.juriedartservices.com/index.php?content=home_new
 
More Information:  naplesart.org
Contact: Maureen Roberts   maureen.roberts@naplesart.org   (239)  262-6517
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