Dear Reader,
It is that time of year, maximizing deductions for Uncle Sam. If it has been a good year for you consider donating to CERF: Craft Emergency Relief Fund. Read below for CERF's annual appeal and news:
We invite you to look at our Yearbook 2008, which is a sampling of the artists we assisted this past year. Not only for these artists but for all of us, 2008 has been a roller coaster ride. An historic presidential election, which has inspired great hope and a fresh start. A global financial crisis, which has created much uncertainty and concern. And a new year rolling in with a mix of anxiety, hope, and promise.
In this atmosphere of uncertainty, two things remain constant. The first is that craft artists will continue to create tangible objects that are beautiful and inspired. The second constant is that some of those artists will face career-threatening emergencies that will challenge their ability to continue creating the objects we value.
Please consider a donation so that CERF can continue to assist artists in 2009 as we have in 2008 and over the last 23 years. Help us keep temporary setbacks for artists from turning into permanent silence.
DONATE
Many thanks for your support. Happy Holidays from all of us at CERF!
P.S. If you’ve already donated to CERF’s annual appeal, we thank you!
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Have you visited GasBuddy.com yet? It is a network of more than 181+ gas price information websites that help you find low gasoline prices. All web sites are operated by GasBuddy and have the most comprehensive listings of gas prices anywhere.
A very cool component of the site is the Trip Calculator. Input your trip parameters and it calculates how much it will cost you to get there and back. The Trip Calculator also takes into account the model of your vehicle, the engine size and year. Now let's see, how much to drive from Chicago to Philadelphia for next weekend's Philadelphia Craft Show?
In addition the site finds the cheapest gasoline prices in your area. GasBuddy web sites allow motorists to share information about low priced fuel with others as well as target the lowest priced stations to save money when filling up at the pumps!
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July 11 & 12 48th Annual Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff St. Joseph, MI 216 Artists Deadline: January 16art by 2008 poster artist Gene Brown of Iowa "Artists tell us every year that we're their favorite show," says Sara Shambarger, long-time Krasl Art Fair Director, "and every year we thank them by promoting their work and offering a great place to be for two days!" The second weekend in July, over 200 of the best national artists will be on the bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. Artist amenities include: *Grassy location with trees, lake breezes and gorgeous view of Lake Michigan *Curb-side loading and unloading *Roomy booths with plenty of storage space. *Friday evening reception gala at Krasl Art Center, buffet and live music *Artist hospitality room, free continental breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings. *Booth sitters and roving volunteers *Artist-only off-street parking close to fair during show *Reserved overnight parking for RVs and vans *Unlimited complimentary invitation postcards and stickers *Substantial festival marketing and media coverage *Promoted in Chicago, northern Indiana and Grand Rapids markets *Estimated 70,000 patrons from all over the Midwest - especially nearby Chicago *A committee and staff that is dedicated to making this show the artists' favorite
Publisher's note: I have attended this event (and bought art) in 2007 and 2008. Beautiful weather brings the crowds out in this lovely resort town. It is a "must attend" for vacationers and residents alike. The
Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff is known for its loyalty to its exhibitors employing on-site jurying to reinvite approximately half of its 216 artists each year. Apply online by visiting
www.zapplication.org clicking on "applications". New users will find Zapplication offers easy online registration. For more info about the Krasl Art Fair contact Sara Shambarger, Art Fair Director, at (269) 983-0271 or
sshambarger@krasl.org, and/or visit
www.krasl.org.
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This press release is just in from the
Ann Arbor Street Art Fair:
The Board of Directors of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair has announced that long time Executive Director, Shary Brown, will be retiring in September of 2009 following the 50th Anniversary of the Original of the Ann Arbor Art Fairs. A lifelong resident of Ann Arbor, Brown, the granddaughter of Mayor William Brown, Jr, led the Street Art Fair organization for the past eleven years. During her tenure she helped relocate the Original Fair to a new location around the Burton Carillon Tower, developed many innovative community partnerships and new activities for the Fair, while continuing to build on the Fair’s many strong traditions. With the board of directors of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair she launched the popular Townie Street Party, a kick off to the Art Fairs. On a national level, she helped create ZAPPlication, an online artist registration and digital jurying process. Four years later the system is used by more than 40,000 artists and nearly 300 art fairs. She has been consulted by many of the major art fairs and events across the country, is often called upon by new shows seeking to emulate the Street Art Fair’s success, and served as a juror for a number of top art fairs and exhibitions, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the Old Town Art Fair in Chicago. On a state level, she most recently worked with the Michigan Festivals and Events Association to host the 2008 spring seminar in Ann Arbor, and over the past year helped develop the recently launched festivals economic impact survey with Michigan State University and the State Department of History Arts and Library. Locally, Brown is a founding member of Arts Alliance, the Cultural Leaders Forum, served on the board of the Ann Arbor Blues and Jazz Festival, the Main Street Area Association and is currently a member of the Washtenaw County Accommodations Ordinance Commission. She started her work at the art fairs more than twenty years ago as the Art Fair Director at the Guild of Artists and Artisans, producing annually the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair, developed the Greektown Art Fair and the Holiday Art Fair in Farmington Hills. “I have learned so much about art and the creative process over the years,” says Brown. “But the greatest pleasure of my work at the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair has been building friendships with artists. Working to connect them with our community has been a truly rewarding experience.” Shary Brown will complete her tenure at the Street Art Fair this fall following the 50th anniversary Fair, July 15 – 18th, 2009, and fifth ever Townie Street Party, July 13th, 2009. Here is Shary as the Art Fairy. Shary and her staff welcomed and dismissed the artists each year "en costume." I've known Shary since her days with the Michigan Guild and stood back while she led the Street Art Fair through its huge wrangles with the South University Association. What a situation she stepped into there! With great tact and persistence she prevailed, with wonderful results. The Street Art Fair now has a beautiful site on the U-M campus where the fine art gathered there can be shown off appropriately. Has it only been eleven years, Shary? You have done a terrific job with the premier art fair in the country and you will surely be missed. Thanks so much for all your services to the artists. You are greatly admired by them and also for other art fair professionals around the country. Can't wait to see what you do next. Many, many people will miss you.
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Posted by Connie Mettler on December 27, 2008 at 10:30pm
Peace and Love for the Holidays & the New Year Warm wishes for a glorious holiday to all my friends in art fair land. My hope for you in the new year is for you to live well, laugh often and love much. I hope Santa brought you everything you wanted. My sincerest gratitude to all of you who have contributed to the growth of ArtFairCalendar.com. With over 10,000 subscribers and a 'well hit upon' website it has been an exciting year for me. Thanks so much. Connie Mettler Publisher-ArtFairCalendar.com
Posted by Connie Mettler on November 20, 2008 at 11:24am
Who would have thought there was any money left in Michigan? As the hearings roll on on Capitol Hill about loans to the auto industry, good news seeps out for art fairs.
As reported in the Lansing (MI) State Journal, "The State of Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs awarded the art festival a $12,000 grant.
Funding recipients were determined by in- and out-of-state culture and arts professionals who reviewed more than 300 applicants, the city said. East Lansing’s grant is from the Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs’ Art Projects Program, which recognizes efforts to advance the state’s creative, economic and cultural environments."
Read the rest of this good news at: East Lansing gets grant for arts festival
For more info about the festival visit: www.elartfest.comRead more…
How can you use your Internet skills to stand out from the office crowd? Here are 6 great Internet tools you can use to improve your career prospects - By Scott Fox, Author of Internet Riches (
www.ScottFox.com) » Step 1 The best way to stand out from the office crowd is to outperform your peers. Most of my content is about starting your own business online, but the Internet also offers great tools that can help improve your traditional career prospects, too. Instead of becoming "that guy" who annoys everybody else by brown-nosing the boss, you can advance your career by improving your own expertise and qualifications. Today the Internet offers easy and free ways to help you do this, even if you are a shy person or hesitant to demand attention. Here are 6 online tools you can use to impress your boss without sucking up. You may use these in your personal life already, but how about taking advantage of them for your own professional advancement? » Step 2 - Google Alerts: Sign up for free Google Alerts on the topics your job involves. This free service will send you emails containing the latest news headlines on your chosen keywords daily. Reading just one email a day can quickly add up to increase your expertise. » Step 3 - Message Boards: Find (or start) web-based communities related to your industry. Participate there to learn more about your business and make new friends, too. » Step 4 - Social Networks: Take advantage of Linked In, Facebook, and other social networks. These free online tools are specifically designed to help you meet other people with similar interests. Use them to meet new colleagues, industry experts, and the “big names” in your field. » Step 5 - Free Newsletters: Most industry experts and consultants today offer not just web sites but free email newsletters. These newsletters discuss their products and services but can also be a valuable source of info on new trends and opportunities. The more you know about the latest trade news and industry gossip, the more informed your decisions and meeting participation will be. » Step 6 - Teleseminars: The Internet has also enabled “experts” of all sorts to offer low cost or free teleconferences. Like the newsletters, these teleseminars are often promotional in nature but they also offer a lot of info for free. Listening to one or two of these per month can greatly increase your industry knowledge. » Step 7 - Distance Learning: Sign up for courses online. You can start or complete a degree, earn industry certifications, or learn new languages – all in your spare time. These additional credentials can advance your career, and your boss might even pay for the courses! » Step 8 Each of these tactics will help you learn more about your business than your boss or peers may expect, and are probably more than your average colleague is going to pursue. Your interest in your profession will become apparent as your daily work becomes more informed by your new expertise, perspective and contacts. People naturally defer to and respect those with more knowledge, so putting your online expertise to work for you by using these tools to advance your career (with becoming a brown noser) is a winning, low risk, and cost-effective strategy for career improvement. Visit
ScottFox.com and my E-Business Success Blog at
http://www.ScottFoxBlog.com for more info and free updates by email, too.
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What a thrill, local girl makes good! Chris Roberts-Antieau of Manchester, MI, was recently profiled in the Wall Street Journal under this headline:
A True Rags-to-Riches Story, Chris Roberts-Antieau Is One of the Foremost Self-Taught Artists in America Today
The lengthy article describes the self-taught fiber artist's rise from obscurity to fame, in conjunction with the publication of her book, Sew Far, "a sumptuous and colorful first monograph on Chris Roberts-Antieau's striking hand-stitched appliques. " The book is a limited edition boxed set including an original fiber "painting" in each box, and retailing for $550!
Chris grew up at art fairs around the Midwest. I remember being her neighbor in Birmingham, MI, Ann Arbor and other places. And I even own a stuffed figure from her "early days." A few years ago she was the poster artist for the Ann Arbor Street Fair.
"Chris Roberts-Antieau is as prolific as she is busy; this fall begins with the debut of Sew Far, as well as two museum exhibitions, three international shows, the launch of Chris's new online gallery store, and the trailer premier of her feature-length documentary: A Love Letter to Tom Waits. Adding to excitement, Chris has been nominated by Governor Jennifer Granholm for the Lifetime Achievement Award in Chris's home state of Michigan."
Congratulations, Chris! Best of luck with all your projects.
More: www.ChrisRoberts-AntieauRead more…
It was another one of those 'driveway moments' this morning, listening to Scott Simon's story on NPR's Weekend Edition about Denver artist Bob Ragland. Bob has been supporting himself as an artist for over 40 years. His attitude about recessions: "People will spend money no matter how hard times are. People will buy less, but they will buy better."
As you listen to this inspiring four minute story you will find yourself agreeing with Ragland and it will restore your belief in yourself: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=98754589
At the NPR website I found comments by Chicago artist, Joyce Owens, with her reflections on the Ragland story and her own ideas about making a living as an artist: http://monroeanderson.typepad.com/joyce_owens_on_art/
"Tough times never last. Tough people do." Bob Ragland
And, on that note, I came across this article from the Fort Myers News-Press about artist Chuck O'Neal, 77, who I know has been paying his bills a long time with his art. He was one of the first people we met when we started doing art fairs, and it was a pleasure to find he is still at it and doing fine.
Here's the link: http://news-press.com/article/20081227/NEWS0119/812270308
Everyone who makes a comments on this post will be entered into a drawing to receive a fr*e copy of my e-book, "Getting into Art Fairs: 20 Questions Answered". The best response will be the winner. Deadline: midnight December 31. Let us hear from you!
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Sitting at my desk and thinking about all the recent financial fallout on top of the exciting election news I've been filtering how it affects those of us in the art fair business, but couldn't figure out how to address it. My thanks to Wendy Rosen of the Rosen Group who has found the right tone, not only addressing the relief we all feel about that the election has (finally) taken place, but also putting into perspective its' financial effects.
I have permission to reprint the following letter. Her organization produces two fine wholesale craft markets every year and has been responsible for the success of many artists by bringing them a professional wholesale market place. Wendy addresses us as a community, recognizing how the individual affects the whole. It is in the same spirit that I have started this new art fair community. I know that in this wonderful country that if we all work together, respect one another and our individual gifts that we can create a place that enhances the talents of all. I invite your comments at the end of the letter. Wendy Rosen's letter: For many of us, today we feel that our nation has exhaled a breath, one we’ve been holding for years. Today, it is time to move forward. Regardless of whom you supported, yesterday’s election was a testament to all of us and the world of the importance of the collective impact of individual actions. Going forward, we feel assured that Main Street’s needs will be at the top of the list of “special interests” for our next president. Now is the time to share and promote our stake in the revitalization of our nation, our economy and the world at large. We encourage you to join us by taking action toward sustaining and supporting the economic importance of craft industry. Many of you – artists and retailers – have struggled over the past weeks, months and in some cases, years. Each of us owes it to each other to work together toward making our community a strong partner in creating a new small business-dominated economy. But before the turnaround occurs we need to be sure that we keep our own promises to each other, sharing resources, keeping informed and increasing both business and artistic skills so that when the time comes we are prepared to take our place as the small flame that ignites the resurgence of a stronger economy. You can begin by sharing with friends and neighbors the incredible difference that can be made to our economy with each dollar they spend locally on products made by hand in the U.S. and Canada. If the thousands of members of the craft family took one simple action a day – even one a week – imagine what we could accomplish in raising our community’s profile, and our individual prosperity. In the coming weeks, we will be offering easy, step-by-step small tasks that will help to create social action, craft and good cause consumerism. Visit us on Facebook, our blog, and on Twitter to hear our thoughts on spreading the word about our community. And we hope that in exchange, you’ll share your suggestions with us and others as well. We can no longer retreat into the isolation of our studios and galleries or stores. Building relationships inside and outside our community benefits us all. If you have not already committed to attending next February’s Buyers Market of American Craft, we encourage you to do so today. Our community’s strength is built upon the personal contact made during those four days each February and three in August. If you are retailer, please visit
www.americancraft.com today to register. Artists may download an application at that same website. Today is a new day – we hope you will join us on the journey. Warm Regards, Wendy Rosen & the Staff of the Buyers Market of American Craft
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My thanks to my friend
Jan Richardson who passed me the following information about well-known artist Drew Smith, and also to fiber artist
Jan Mayer for sending updated information with stories from Candiss Cole and Curtis Benzle (I can't believe, Curt, you are now a "professor emeritus") about this man who lived a great life:
Master Glassblower Drew Smith passed away of inoperable liver cancer on 12/21/08 in his home in Pacific Beach, near San Diego, California. His very loving and caring finance’, Linda Livingston was right by his side throughout the entire passage. Smith graduated with his B.A. from Ashland University in Ohio. He learned glass making from Henry Halem at Kent State University where he was a graduate assistant. He taught glassblowing at Columbus College of Art and Design from 1981 to 1986. Drew was as very well known figure in the American Crafts field from 1971 to 2002 where he was a regular exhibitor at the American Craft Council shows, The Buyers Market of American Crafts, and The Ohio Designer Craftsmen shows, among many others. Drew Smith was one of the leading glass blowers to come out of Ohio, and was highly regarded throughout the world for his creative genius with the medium of hand blown glass. His studio was based in the Hocking Hills- Logan, area, just outside of Columbus, Ohio for many years before moving it to Tampa, Florida. Drew received a lot of recognition in the Tampa community for upgrading his neighborhood with truly a magnificent art gallery and studio. From there he went to Jamaica, and then to Pacific Beach, San Diego. In Drew’s early career, he specialized in lamps, vases, and tablewear. Later on, he moved to larger scale work in sculpture, metal and glass furniture and ornamental iron and glass gates. In 1999 he was featured in an issue of Glass Art magazine as one of the four leading glass furniture makers in the world. Smith cast glass into metal pieces like doing large cloisonne’. Smith called his technique “Ferro Vitro.” Drew’s hand blown glass and sculptural works have been exhibited at numerous shows and galleries throughout the U.S. , Europe, and Japan, with permanent collections in various art museums including the Corning Museum and the Smithsonian Institution. Daniel Schreiber, a glass artist who studied with Drew said: “Drew taught me almost everything I know about working professionally as a glass artist, and operating a glass studio. Apprenticing to him in his studio in Logan, Ohio, was the richest and most rewarding period in my artistic development and I will always fondly remember not only the art, the glass, but the food and drink, the stories and experiences, and most of all his friendship, and generosity and always his very positive attitude about his life, despite its challenges.” Candiss Ann Cole, noted fiber artist, said: “Drew was one of the first craftspeople to take me under his wing and guide me into this world we live in over 33 years ago. Drew and I met at the Frederick Craft Show in Maryland. He always had a Big smile and was always willing to share, and always moved to his own drummer. I guess The Drummer finally called him to the big Glass Studio in the sky! Drew’s magnificient art work will live in the lives of his customers, but he will live in our hearts forever. Chuck Feil, professional photographer, author of 11 books, and owner of Panterra Gallery, was one of Drew’s best pals for over 25 years said the following motto sums Drew up best: “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming WOO HOO what a ride.” Curtis Benzle, Professor Emeritus of Columbus College of Art and Design where Drew also taught, said “ Great ideas bubbled up out of Drew like fresh water from a spring. You could never quite know his source of inspiration but exciting new work just kept coming. Inspiration, ideas and always great execution were Drew’s trademarks. Drew knew as well as anyone that ideas without execution were just daydreams. Fortunately for us, Drew was also a master craftsman and he worked hard to fill our world with a lasting legacy of his artistic genius.” Jan Mayer, of Kriska painting on silk, another long term close friend of Drew’s, fondly remembers Drew as “one of the most loving, EXTREMELY COLORFUL, and giving members our artistic community has ever seen. If you ever needed a bed or a good meal or a helping hand, Drew never said no to anyone. Drew had a heart as big as the state of Texas. When the crafts business was booming, I used to organize outdoor recreational events for artists and gallery owners. These included white water rafting trips, ski trips to Utah and the French Alps, and houseboating trips on Lake Powell. Drew always volunteered to be my chef, pro bono! He loved to cook the finest creative meals possible with whatever he could dig up. He would often fly across the country with some of his ‘hand picked wild mushrooms’ or home raised chickens or turkeys. Appetizers would start around 5 p.m. and he would continue to feed us these utterly remarkable gourmet delights up until about 11p.m. For Drew, cooking and living were art forms just as much as glassblowing. One year during one of our artist ski trips to Alta, Utah, Drew presented every participant one of his hand blown glass goblets. I would have to say that all in all, Drew was as much of ‘ renaissance man’ as I have ever personally known.” Drew’s Mother, brother and daughter were all able to speak with him to say goodbye just minutes before his passing. Drew was cremated wearing a black shirt with brightly colored parrots and flowers at the top, black pants, purple socks and yellow crocs, resting on bright neon green pillows. Please log on and sign Drew’s guest book, and live a legacy for his family and many friends: http://www.legacy.com/Ohio/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=121898201 Donations in honor of Drew may be made to Craft Emergency Relied Fund. CERF is the one and only non profit organization that assists craftspeople with interest free loans and grants when disaster or illness strikes. Your donations to CERF are a tax deductible, charitable contribution. Drew had the utmost respect for CERF, as it is truly a heart based, no nonsense organization that really does help craftspeople in time of need. CERF(Craft Emergency Relief Foundation) P.O. Box 838 Montpelier, Vermont 05601 802-223-6484
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May 1, 2 & 3
24th Annual Brookside Art Fair
Kansas City, MO
190 Artists
Deadline: January 12
Located in an eclectic neighborhood in the center of Kansas City, you'll love Brookside. It is just minutes from downtown, the Plaza and the southern suburbs. The Brookside Art Annual is known for its festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience, and has become a must-attend event for artists and art seekers alike.
You need to know:
* this is the first art show of the year, consequently
* it draws over 70,000 people from the entire region.
* the focus of the show is on ART! (not food, children's activities & entertainment)
* consistently ranks in the top 25 shows according to the Art Fair Sourcebook
Art Fair Calendar.com "This is a very pleasant, national caliber event attracting an affluent, enthusiastic and knowledgeable clientele." - Art Fair Sourcebook
The Brookside Art Annual, produced by the Brookside Business Association, is a non-profit organization of merchants working to promote and improve the community in the heart of Kansas City.
Dominated by quaint neighborhoods, the Brookside neighborhood becomes the center of the Midwest art community each May. The Brookside Art Annual is known for its festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience, and has become a must-attend event for artists and art seekers alike.
Apply with only your very best work! Because of the date this event has few rivals and as a result the quality is excellent.
For an application: www.zapplication.comRead more…
Posted by John Felker on November 1, 2008 at 3:02pm
Event: Los Angeles Art ShowWhere: Los Angeles Convention CenterWhen: 01/21/09-01/25/09Los Angeles Art Show Hotels (14% tax will be added for Los Angeles)1. Marriott Los Angeles Downtown $157 per night (8 blocks)2. Millenium Biltmore $137 per night (8 Blocks)3. Wilshire Grand $127 per night (4 Blocks)Hotels for Downtown Los Angeles starting at $99. . Click the below link for your FREE HOTEL QUOTE.http://silversch.com/id20.html
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I purchased my very first display panels last spring from Connie. She is so gracious and she asked me to “report in” on my first year in the art fair business. So, here it goes – “The Unforgettable Life-Lessons I Learned During My First Art Fair Season”. Ahem –1. How when I saw the truck fully loaded with panels, chairs, the tent, tubs of equipment and a few paintings thrown in on top of it all, is when I truly grasped the concept of “overhead.”2. How you shouldn’t make the 500-artist show your first show. By yourself. Far away from home. ( I didn’t mean to, but I was “blown out” of my first, first show.)3. What is feels like to be trapped under a blown-over tent and debris during a micro-burst. (Or, when someone tells you to take the artwork off the walls because a storm is coming, leave immediately.)4. How easy is it to get a “free” charge card merchant account (and then find out how much it really costs you).5. How heavy those weights really are. (And, I still don’t have enough of them.)6. That 6 feet 7 inches is truly out of reach. (Even on my toes, no matter how hard I stretch.)7. How little sleep you can get and still put up a display and talk to customers. (Note to self: don’t try that again.)8. What a hard, 16-hour day really feels like. (It ain’t like the office!)9. How April, May, June and ½ of July were a nightmare. (But how during the second half of July, August and Sept, I felt like a pro.)10. The shock I felt when other artists started asking ME for advice (They must have mistaken my “finally, I know how to put this thing up in less than 3 hours” look for “seasoned.”)11. How gratified I felt when the local museum purchased a painting. (It was the only sale that day but what a good one!)12. How my fear of talking to people who came into my booth morphed into a steady sales prattle. (I don’t know how many customers I scared away!)13. How (inwardly) irked I am when people comment to me, “how relaxing you must find painting.” (Yeah, right.)14. How it feels to be not “just” an artist, but, rather, an art business entrepreneur.15. Most unforgettable are the people that helped along the way. A very special thank you to Kathy Eaton, who been an inspiration to me and a tremendous friend and wealth of knowledge. She has gone so far out of her way to point me in the right direction, subtly let me know when I am being an idiot and has given me great advice and insights. And, of course, my husband, who -- I can’t believe it -- actually fixes mangled display panels, builds shelves for the art truck and encourages me to keep going.I hope to see and meet many of you next summer!
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July 8-11 48th Annual Wyandotte Street Art Fair downtown streets of Wyandotte, MI sponsored by the City of Wyandotte 250 Exhibitors Deadline: February 2 Where is Wyandotte, MI?
Visit this link. Here is what artists are saying about last year's Wyandotte Street Art Fair:
I have heard only really good things about this past fair. Word on the street is that everyone at Wyandotte was up (myself included). Best year we have had at Wyandotte and we are going into the 7th year. Everything went smoothly in our opinion, plenty of set up time and we really appreciate the girls that come around offering water and food. Looking forward to next year! - Cheryl ButtonsI want to thank you and your staff for allowing me to be a part of the festival this year. The show has been my best all year. I am sorry we did not get a chance to talk longer however, as you can tell people were standing in my booth waiting to give me their money (Ha Ha). Shows this good are hard to come by these days. Many thanks and have a Blessed year!!!!!! - Jody Walker, The Art Gallery (3-D)We really enjoyed the Art Show this year. Had several comments from patrons as well as exhibitors. Congrats on a great show. - Tina Willis Wyandotte is the second longest running and second largest art fair in Michigan. It is well established and very well attended. This is one of the 'biggies' in Michigan and for many customers their favorite. It is usually held the week before Ann Arbor giving artists who are traveling some distance two events back-to-back. It is also one of those fairs where you hear people say that they don't go to Ann Arbor, giving you access to a different clientele. Over 200,000 people from around the metro area and Canada attend. The city really turns out to host the event and take pride in it. If you want exposure to a new group this may be the place. Are you feeling adventurous? Ready to get your feet wet in a strong established art fair? This may be the one for you.
Expenses are low: the booth fee is only $225 for a four day event, less than $60 a day, quite a bargain and housing in the area is reasonable. More good news: * pull up to your booth to unload and load * awards for best of show, best new artist, best booth * showers for artists, booth sitters, water * great hospitality to keep you comfortable during the fair Detroit area art fair audiences are some of the best. For more information and to download an application go to:
http://www.wyandottestreetartfair.org/Read more…
"As funding for such events across the country has become less available and costs, such as insurance, have risen markedly, it has become harder and harder to offer a free festival, let alone to be all things to all people."
There is much food for thought about the continued funding of art fairs and arts festivals around the country. If this is a concern for you you will fine an interesting discussion in this Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article, 3 Rivers Fest Weighs Visual Arts Role by Mary Thomas.
With changes being made in the leadership as its head leaves the Andy Warhol Museum for greener pastures in NYC the visual arts is under scrutiny. Let's hope it maintains its primacy and the popular event doesn't turn into a music festival. The Three Rivers Arts Festival attracts over 600,000 people. Although not a pure art fair its popularity brings people from all around Pittsburgh to sample its various offerings.
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July 15-18
At the Tower
On the streets of Ann Arbor, MI
175 Artists
Deadline: January 15
The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is one of the events that turned this whole art fair business into a business that now supports thousands of artists nationwide, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair. Don't miss your opportunity to be part of a legend!
The Street Art Fair is one of the highest ranking art fairs in the nation and for good reason:
*It draws collectors who rarely attend art fairs
*It attracts the finest artists
*It works with many cultural community and educational institutions to produce exceptional community art activities
*It works throughout the year to be a blue ribbon presence in the Ann Arbor community
This is the original event on which the other Ann Arbor fairs have patterned themselves, as well as many other fairs across the nation. It is the creme de la creme of art events.
The Street Art Fair has an distinctive jury process, unlike that of any other art fair. Under the guidance of Shary Brown, the director, there are five separate panels jurying specific media or related categories.
There are 4 to 5 jurors per panel, one of whom is a member of the Jury Group. The Jury Group meets in a sixth session after all the panels are complete to review the submissions with high scores and determine invitations in each category, balancing the scores, the range of work and the strength of category.
Artists selected for the wait list are also determined at this session. They jury over two weekends in late January and early February with at least two sessions mid week. All images are projected, statements read with additional information available upon request.
The strength of this approach is that they have jurors (who are paid an honorarium) working 4 to 6 hours only in their own area of expertise, or related areas. Jurors see the work multiple times and are able to ask questions and to discuss the work, moving back and forth to compare it to other submissions in the category. Jurors are generally working artists and are often educators at area colleges or museums. They mix new jurors with experienced jurors.
The Jury Group member brings a familiarity with the fair and knowledge of the goals and programs from having juried the fair on site the previous year. They will bring the overall sensibility of the panel to the final session.
One of the unusual aspects of this jurying is that there is no booth slide required, but rather five images of your work.
For more info on the Street Fair visit their website: http://www.artfair.org/
To view the application and apply today, visit: http://www.zapplication.org/Read more…
16th annual American Craft Show comes to Sarasota
" It’s the perfect time of year for the 16th annual American Craft Show, which will bring some of the best artistry in the nation to Sarasota this weekend — from one-of-a-kind toys and home accessories to colorful clothes and distinctive jewelry. The three-day event is a holiday shopper’s paradise.
What makes this juried show even more appealing is that it only visits six cities in the United States each year, with Sarasota being the last stop on the circuit, " says writer January Holmes at the Bradenton (FL) Herald.
Really, this is a terrific opportunity to see one-of-a-kind goods in all price ranges by America's top craftspeople that will make terrific gifts that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Read the rest of this story: 16th Annual American Craft ShowRead more…
Were you planning on getting your booth and product photographed by Jerry Anthony at this season's holiday shows? Thank again. Jerry and his partner Sharon Richwine will not be there. Here is their announcement:
The winter shows are coming very quickly, & we wanted you to know that for the first time in 26 years, we will not be there.
Jerry & I have decided to stop going on location to shows and help save our bodies for work here in the studio.
SO if you are in town for a show & want work done - we will waive the rush fee & turn your work around overnight, work load allowing, but you will have to drop it off at the studio.
We hope the season will be bright for all of you. This is a critical year for all small businesses, & we look forward to a BRIGHTER 2009.
They will continue to do their work, shooting your images and handling your printing needs for brochures, business cards and postcards. Visit their website: jerryanthonyphoto.com
I've known Sharon and Jerry for years, so I pressed her a little harder on what was really happening. Here is her reply:
THANKS so much for your note. To decide to stop doing shows was the hardest decision we have ever had to make. To go to shows is what I have always done- 41 years, first with my own work & then with Jerry and the photography. We have made many good friends over that time & to know we may not see some of
you again is difficult.
We will remember every one of you and luckily we have photos of your work to keep you in our thoughts, but it is all of the wonderful conversations we have had with you that we will miss the most. We hope, though, that you will
continue to drop us a note once in a while to tell us how you are doing.
Jerry & I are both well, we just realized that if we are to continue to be well & do our photography, we needed to quit pushing ourselves physically & figure out the best way to stay in good shape for as long as we can. That
meant eliminating the exhaustive road trips.
We would love to stay in touch with all of you when you are in town & hope to see you and your work at our studio - either via mail or in person.
The very best to you. You all are remarkable, creative individuals, & we have greatly enjoyed hearing you talk about your work in person, how you created it and seeing the final product. We hope that this part will continue whenever possible.
Very Sincerely,
Sharon Richwine
Jerry Anthony PhotographyRead more…
Did you miss ArtFairCalendar.com’s second call-in teleseminar? This is your opportunity to own a transcript of the conversation, 29 pages on 20 topics submitted by artists. It is full of helpful insights to dilemmas faced by beginning art fair artists.
Recently we held our second teleseminar where I answered questions from my subscribers about art fairs. We recorded the session and it is
now available as an e-book on the ArtFairCalendar.com web site for purchase – at a great introductory price.
Click here right now to purchase the brand new e-book “Teleseminar II - Getting Into Art Fairs: 20 Questions Answered.” Look for the “Buy Now” button on the right sidebar. Some of the topics addressed: * what are some of the best items for art fairs? * what style of art is most in demand? * how do I raise money to get started? * what are the best sources for finding art fairs? * what sells and where? * how do you tell the difference between shows with buyers and shows with lookers? * what are art fairs looking for in the application? * why do I need a booth slide? what is a booth slide? * how do I arrange my booth? * how do I determine a price? Here is what some of the participants had to say:
Hi Connie, I missed the first teleseminar, but listened to the second one that was yesterday. Thanks to your website I am very busy this summer beginning tomorrow (Warren Co. Festival of the Arts) till August 23rd (Mason Heritage Festival). I had some concerns about booth display and yesterday’s teleseminar gave me confidence. Thank you again and feel free to use my comments as a testimonial. Also, since English is the 5th language to me feel free to proofread before you use any of my emails :). Konul Zwolinski Connie, Wanted to thank you for providing me the opportunity to join the call. Great information, and you organized the presentation of the topics very well, each flowed into the other. Can’t wait for the next seminar. You mentioned the possibility of focused calls - booth design would be most helpful. Would save a lot of trial and error. Thank you, JR Lamartine Connie, I found your seminar helpful and informative. I look forward to future opportunities. i have just gotten started in this business, so I welcome all sources of experience and support. Please keep me on your e-mail list. I can anticipate using more of your services, in the future. Enlightened Images,LLC www.enlightenedimages.net Thank you Constance: I’m looking forward to reading what the two of you had to say. Even with a more than 30 year history of painting and 2 masters degrees in Painting I’m having no luck even being accepted to Festivals. Any tips that help will be greatly appreciated. JimRead more…
It is that time of year, maximizing deductions for Uncle Sam. If it has been a good year for you consider donating to CERF: Craft Emergency Relief Fund. Read below for CERF's annual appeal and news:
We invite you to look at our Yearbook 2008, which is a sampling of the artists we assisted this past year. Not only for these artists but for all of us, 2008 has been a roller coaster ride. An historic presidential election, which has inspired great hope and a fresh start. A global financial crisis, which has created much uncertainty and concern. And a new year rolling in with a mix of anxiety, hope, and promise.
In this atmosphere of uncertainty, two things remain constant. The first is that craft artists will continue to create tangible objects that are beautiful and inspired. The second constant is that some of those artists will face career-threatening emergencies that will challenge their ability to continue creating the objects we value.
Please consider a donation so that CERF can continue to assist artists in 2009 as we have in 2008 and over the last 23 years. Help us keep temporary setbacks for artists from turning into permanent silence.
DONATE
Many thanks for your support. Happy Holidays from all of us at CERF!
P.S. If you’ve already donated to CERF’s annual appeal, we thank you!
Forward this message to a friend
Have you visited 
What a thrill, local girl makes good! Chris Roberts-Antieau of Manchester, MI, was recently profiled in the Wall Street Journal under this headline: 
May 1, 2 & 3
24th Annual Brookside Art Fair
Kansas City, MO
190 Artists
Deadline: January 12
Located in an eclectic neighborhood in the center of Kansas City, you'll love Brookside. It is just minutes from downtown, the Plaza and the southern suburbs. The Brookside Art Annual is known for its festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience, and has become a must-attend event for artists and art seekers alike.
You need to know:
* this is the first art show of the year, consequently
* it draws over 70,000 people from the entire region.
* the focus of the show is on ART! (not food, children's activities & entertainment)
* consistently ranks in the top 25 shows according to the Art Fair Sourcebook
Art Fair Calendar.com "This is a very pleasant, national caliber event attracting an affluent, enthusiastic and knowledgeable clientele." - Art Fair Sourcebook
The Brookside Art Annual, produced by the Brookside Business Association, is a non-profit organization of merchants working to promote and improve the community in the heart of Kansas City.
Dominated by quaint neighborhoods, the Brookside neighborhood becomes the center of the Midwest art community each May. The Brookside Art Annual is known for its festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience, and has become a must-attend event for artists and art seekers alike.
Apply with only your very best work! Because of the date this event has few rivals and as a result the quality is excellent.
For an application: 
Expenses are low: the booth fee is only $225 for a four day event, less than $60 a day, quite a bargain and housing in the area is reasonable. More good news: * pull up to your booth to unload and load * awards for best of show, best new artist, best booth * showers for artists, booth sitters, water * great hospitality to keep you comfortable during the fair Detroit area art fair audiences are some of the best. For more information and to download an application go to:
July 15-18
At the Tower
On the streets of Ann Arbor, MI
175 Artists
Deadline: January 15
The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is one of the events that turned this whole art fair business into a business that now supports thousands of artists nationwide, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair. Don't miss your opportunity to be part of a legend!
The Street Art Fair is one of the highest ranking art fairs in the nation and for good reason:
*It draws collectors who rarely attend art fairs
*It attracts the finest artists
*It works with many cultural community and educational institutions to produce exceptional community art activities
*It works throughout the year to be a blue ribbon presence in the Ann Arbor community
This is the original event on which the other Ann Arbor fairs have patterned themselves, as well as many other fairs across the nation. It is the creme de la creme of art events.
The Street Art Fair has an distinctive jury process, unlike that of any other art fair. Under the guidance of Shary Brown, the director, there are five separate panels jurying specific media or related categories.
There are 4 to 5 jurors per panel, one of whom is a member of the Jury Group. The Jury Group meets in a sixth 
session after all the panels are complete to review the submissions with high scores and determine invitations in each category, balancing the scores, the range of work and the strength of category.
Artists selected for the wait list are also determined at this session. They jury over two weekends in late January and early February with at least two sessions mid week. All images are projected, statements read with additional information available upon request.
The strength of this approach is that they have jurors (who are paid an honorarium) working 4 to 6 hours only in their own area of expertise, or related areas. Jurors see the work multiple times and are able to ask questions and to discuss the work, moving back and forth to compare it to other submissions in the category. Jurors are generally working artists and are often educators at area colleges or museums. They mix new jurors with experienced jurors.
The Jury Group member brings a familiarity with the fair and knowledge of the goals and programs from having juried the fair on site the previous year. They will bring the overall sensibility of the panel to the final session.
One of the unusual aspects of this jurying is that there is no booth slide required, but rather five images of your work.
For more info on the Street Fair visit their website: 
" It’s the perfect time of year for the 16th annual American Craft Show, which will bring some of the best artistry in the nation to Sarasota this weekend — from one-of-a-kind toys and home accessories to colorful clothes and distinctive jewelry. The three-day event is a holiday shopper’s paradise.
What makes this juried show even more appealing is that it only visits six cities in the United States each year, with Sarasota being the last stop on the circuit, " says writer January Holmes at the Bradenton (FL) Herald.
Really, this is a terrific opportunity to see one-of-a-kind goods in all price ranges by America's top craftspeople that will make terrific gifts that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Read the rest of this story: 