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Fee + Commission?

Posted by Jennifer Donald on December 9, 2010 at 8:58am in Art Show Information and Discussions
While looking up info on 2011 shows, I found one that requires a $25.00 non-refundable application fee, plus booth fee (varied but very reasonable!) upon acceptance, and then a "Post-Event Gross Sales Payment"
1st $2000 = 15%
Over 1st $2000 = 10%

The example they gave, if you have gross sales of $4500:
15% of $2000 = $300
10% of $2500 = $250
Total Payment = $550.

Opinions on this?  


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  • John Hartung December 22, 2010 at 1:41pm

    I've done Artsfest and didn't have a problem with the way they charge artists commission. First the booth fee is very low, think like $50. Yes, the commission fee can get expensive if you do well, but if you bomb it's much less expensive than most shows out there. By charging commission it gives the show added incentive to bring in a good buying crowd.

     

    They have been charging commission for many years is my understanding. My sales were fairly good, but less than their $4500 example. All in all my total expense was reasonable.

  • Linnea Lahlum December 9, 2010 at 11:51am
    Commision shows are usually fundraisers for some organization. Many, if not most, of these shows will have a central checkout system: all sales go through their hands. That way they are assured of getting their cut. Customers find it a pain to go someplace else to pay, though, then come back to pick up what they bought from your booth.

    I do one now and then that is a fundraiser for a hospital. Booth fee there very is very nominal: but 20% commission there means you will really pay out, if you sell well. The artist grumble, but most come back. I see artists doing that one who don’t normally do art fairs, and don’t take credit cards on their own. For them, it’s convenient. Plus, if they don’t sell much, they are not out a big booth fee.
    It all boils down to how much money you can make. Is it worth it for the aggravation.
  • Barry Bernstein December 9, 2010 at 10:40am
    I'm also not in favor of commission shows as a rule. I did Oklahoma City 2 years ago and I'm doing it again this year. It works for that show because people come out to buy. It's a 6 day show and I sold a big piece every day. I don't mind paying an $800-$1000 commission because it means I am selling. They collect the sales tax and pay the state. It's a relief not having to deal with people who want to beat you up over the sales tax. They pay all the credit card fees out of their commission. Also, they treat the artists better than any other show that I do. They have a system where there is always 2 volunteers for each section. They feed us and make sure we are hydrated. Also, they have their own tents, so, you only need to bring walls or pedestals. I'd rather give them $1000 than do a show where the booth fee is $500 but I only do $2500.
  • Larry Berman December 9, 2010 at 10:02am
    What show?

    There have been shows that ask for commission but never a sliding scale that I'm aware of. What show and how established are they?

    Larry Berman
    Digital Jury Services
    http://BermanGraphics.com
    412-401-8100.
    • Jennifer Donald > Larry Berman December 9, 2010 at 10:05am
      Its Artsfest in Solomon's Island, MD. Started in 1993. 120 - 150 artists.
      • Larry Berman > Jennifer Donald December 9, 2010 at 10:10am
        Have they always had that system of payment? Basically I'm against commissions but it works well with Oklahoma City. I guess the question is whether you think that amount is fair for what you typically gross at shows.

        Larry Berman
        Digital Jury Services
        http://BermanGraphics.com
        412-401-8100
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