We need promoter input under the "Working at Shows: Sour Grapes?" discussion, please?
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[removed]
Wednesday, June 3, 2009 07:14 pm EDT
As an event planner/promoter for a non-profit organization (and a gallery owner) I am planning our city's first Fine Art Market this fall. Our reason for jurying applications is specifically to prevent problems with knock-offs, non-original works and poor craftsmanship. We are a small community in East Texas that is aggresively marketing our town as a tourist destination and has a developing art community. We want visitors to our Art Market to be delighted with the quality and originality of the work, not disappointed by the junk. We would like to see a range of prices in items for sale but we intend for our primary marketing to be directed at high-income buyers.
There will be a lot of bells and whistles for artists and patrons--a patron's reception (free to artists), a VIP/hospitality room with continental breakfast, drinks & snacks (free to artists), prizes of $500, $250 and $100 for "best of" awards, boothsitters & runners for artists, help with loading & unloading, 24-hour security, $49/night rooms at a nearby retreat (private rooms w/baths and use of lodge with kitchen) for artists, free postcards for artists to send to their customers, etc. We're a small community and I expect that the artists who sell at this Market will become friends before the weekend is over.
We have heard from some local artists that our booth fee ($200) is too high. I think it's middle-of-the-road, but, because this is our first year, we have several businesses who have volunteered to sponsor artists who simply cannot pay the whole booth fee. This will be handled on an individual basis and as funds are available. We are in the process of selling purchase awards to guarantee sales at the market. Because it's our first year we have no track record as to how many people will attend or how much money will be spent. We can only promote and market aggresively and hope that quality artists and craftspeople will give us a chance.
By the way, although Texas is feeling some pressure from the poor economy it doesn't seem to be anything like other states. We're all feeling pretty good about the success of this event. I hope some of you will join us.
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Innovations Studio
Wednesday, June 3, 2009 09:14 pm EDT
mvander: Thank you very much for your post! This is just the sort of information needed for artists and craftsmen who are looking for top of the line venues to sell in. As a vendor in Art and Craft shows and festivals, I see issues on both sides of the relationship. Input from the sponsors and promoters can really help those who are new to the business. Since I am also a watercolorist/mixed media artist and I can tell you that the Art Market you describe sounds terrific! All of the exposure and action that is needed to stimulate both artist and patron is in this event, I think. While your booth fee would be considered high to many who do non-juried A & C shows, it is very reasonable for artists who don't always have the option of having a Market to sell in PLUS all of the perks you have built in to the package. Your artists are getting plenty of support for their investment money! 'Best of' awards and those purchase awards you mentioned are excellent and your artist sponsorships are sure to be good for the future of your Market. All of these are sure to give you plenty of promotional opportunities right up to and after the event as well!( I'm so glad you brought in the promotion and marketing aspect for posters to see. ) You indeed are bringing your area a Market! Do I sound tempted? kneff/inNOVAtions Studio
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[removed]
Wednesday, June 3, 2009 10:49 pm EDT
Thanks for the positive feedback, kneff. We want to make this first Market memorable (and profitable) for artists, patrons and our community. If you really are tempted check out www.winnsboroart.com
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Innovations Studio
Thursday, June 4, 2009 09:49 am EDT
Worry not, mvander-I really am and I already did! I certainly hope you get response from others. kneff
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Bear Paw Sticks & Staffs
Tuesday, June 23, 2009 03:53 pm EDT
This is a bit belated, but thanks, mvander, for your response. As has been announced, Bear Paw Sticks & Staffs has had to terminate our 2009 festival schedule as of June 15 due to health problems. This is a big thank you and shout out to all the vendors that refunded our show fees even when the contract stated otherwise. You guys are the best. We definitely hope to make a comeback in 2010. David & Lisa Brown @ Bear Paw Sticks & Staffs
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Pearl Druss
Thursday, July 23, 2009 06:52 pm EDT
TO ALL PROMOTERS/CRAFTERS:
I am searching for Stanley Harris. He used to run Jinx Harris Shows in the New England area.
Last time I had contact, he was in Merrimack,
New Hampshire..he is no longer there.
Jinx was in the Baltimore area of Md.
If there are any seasoned craftspeople out there, or old promoters
or "old promoters", PLEASE email me if you coul
d jog your memories.
Thanks,
Pearl
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Pearl Druss
Thursday, July 23, 2009 06:54 pm EDT
TO ALL PROMOTERS:
Stan ran JINX HARRIS SHOWS.
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Abdoulaye
Saturday, August 6, 2011 09:54 am EDT
i am looking for a promoter or event specialist to get an international festival in my town.St Louis, MO
Anyone who knows the area and can help, please call 314-265-5996
