I haven't done any art fairs for a while. I took time off to make art and try to get into more galleries - and then my personal life got in the way [no details here, read my blog if you really want more info]. I also thought we were moving this spring, so I put everything on hold...so to speak.
Anyway, the season here [in AZ] is winding down, I haven't even LOOKED at Zapp, since it's so late in the game. So, I turn to YOU, my fellow AFI's for advice...on...
Where to go now?
Assuming we take long weekends [spouse works full time, but has lots of vacation days]. Wonder where you would recommend - both shows and locations withing a day or two driving distance of Arizona. I know some artists fly to destinations and ship work, but that's not my style. We actually have been on trips as far flung as Texas and Oregon. At this point, considering starting in May and winding up in October.
One thing that has kept me away from art fairs is my pricing. My work is very expensive, so keeping the economy in mind, parking lot shows in front of the Safeway are probably out, unless it's in a VERY wealthy neighborhood!
So, me dears...assuming deadlines are still approachable, what are your suggestions? Much obliged, hope to see you out there!
Replies
For Colorado shows, most of which are still open for jurying, go to Info@ColoradoArtistTour.com. Jim DeLutes will walk you thru the process. It's the best $10 you'll ever spend for info on about 60 Colorado and some non-Colorado shows.
New Mexico? Rio Grande Festivals (Google them) has their Albuquerque Balloon Festival - two weekends in Oct.
AZ? Go to Thunderbird Artists, they have shows in the fall and winter in the Phoenix Metro area.
Calif.? San Diego has a fall festival, ArtWalk. Sausalito is closed. La Jolla might still be open. For a metro area the size of Los Angeles, it's amazing how there are so few decent shows. Check out Santa Monica, it might have a fall festival.
As you no doubt know, most May events are well past their deadlines. My best bet would be to figure out how far you want to travel, go to ArtFairCalendar.com, Sunshine Artist, AFSB, and see what you can find in that radius. The only biggie I can think of is Sausalito, whose deadline may be past. I'd think your work would be appreciated there.
Then, I think you should start thinking about the next season, maybe some serious road trips -- say, Kansas City, Fort Worth, Denver, Crested Butte (CO)...
Also, you might look at the membership list here and find people from Arizona and check them out to see if they have ideas for you.
Anyone else have any suggestions for Sandhi? Those of you who live West?