Memorial Day weekend was my most recent art show at the Marietta Artisan Market. This time last year, I was planning, researching and networking with many artists. As a matter of fact, I’ve created a Pinterest board all about tips just for art shows and fairs. You can see it here: https://www.pinterest.com/TinaAStoffel/art-show-display-and-tips/
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead has always proven beneficial for me. In this case, I’m so glad I did because it sure saved me from a lot of mistakes and headaches.
Research
During my research, I had several recommendations and even found some lists which I modified for my outdoor art show. For your convenience I’ve put it together in a handy PDF file. You may download it here if you wish. [Download not found]
| OUTDOOR ART SHOW/FAIR PACKING LIST | |||||
| SET UP | copyright Tina A Stoffel | ||||
| Tent | TinasFineArts.com | ||||
| Set up instructions | |||||
| Display walls | Mesh panels/gridwall | WORK SUPPLIES | |||
| Tent weights | important | Easel | |||
| Rain wall protection | Paint | ||||
| Bungee Cord or Rope | Brushes | ||||
| Print rack | Painting knife | ||||
| Table | Solvent | ||||
| Table Cover | Bag | ||||
| Carpet | Optional adds nice touch | Towels | |||
| Hammer/ mallet | Canvas | ||||
| Rain Panels | |||||
| TOOLS/SUPPLIES | |||||
| Pliers | |||||
| Tape | |||||
| Scissors | |||||
| Art hangers | Drapery hooks work well | ||||
| Hand Truck/cart | |||||
| Tag Hangers | Safety pins work great on mesh | ||||
| Packing Tape | |||||
| Box Cutter | |||||
| Paper Towels | |||||
| Touch up paint | Oil sticks/Acrylic Pens | ||||
| MARKETING | |||||
| Banner | |||||
| Business Cards | |||||
| Business Card Holder | |||||
| Brochures | |||||
| Portfolio | |||||
| Camera | |||||
| Price Tags | Try plain business cards | ||||
| Guest Book | |||||
| BUSINESS SUPPLIES | |||||
| Commission Agreement | |||||
| Sales Receipts/receipt book | |||||
| Inventory list | |||||
| Credit Card Swipe | |||||
| Cell phone | |||||
| Bags for purchases | |||||
| Calculator | |||||
| Pens | |||||
| Glass cleaner for frames |
Benefits of Showing Your Work
If you are new to the art business, or haven’t shown your art, I highly recommend it. If you are observant, you will find several benefits from your show.
- Meeting Prospective Customers
- Familiarizing People With Your Work
- Learning to Talk About Your Art
- Feedback on Pieces People like (verbal and nonverbal)
- Playing with Doggies
Ok, I threw that last one in, but I do love animals and enjoy all my fury visitors such as these sweet dogs.
Art Perks
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Tina Stoffel
