I'm located in Florida, and am hoping to connect with artists who have worked HAE Colorado shows in Aspen, Keystone, Beaver Creek & Frisco.
I'm hoping to work those shows in 2018, and I'm beginning to research.
~Where are the least expensive places to stay when working those shows?
~Does anyone stay at campgrounds, if so, which ones, and how far in advance should you book the campground(s) near those areas?
~Do some artists go in with others working those shows to rent a "central" place to cut expenses? I know it's far in advance and plans change; however, is anyone interested in exploring that idea for 2018?
~I'm planning on presenting several large works that may not all fit in my van, so I'm thinking of either driving or shipping some work up to a storage facility ahead of time- does anyone do this? If so, where/how do you coordinate it? Any words of advice?
~ Any kind words of wisdom that you'd share with me that I've not thought about regarding working, lodging, and/or traveling, etc., this show circuit?
Many thanks in advance.
Replies
Another thing about the Difficult Campground you should consider: It is the only campground close to Aspen and also fills up. Apply to the shows early, then as soon as you are accepted, go online and reserve a space if you want to camp instead. It is cheaper than the St. Moritz, but they may be the most expensive campsites you have ever seen. Nothing is inexpensive in Aspen.
Also, once you have stayed at the St. Moritz once, in future years you will get a discount as a returning customer.
Thank you - will do. Great name for a campground, right?!
I don't know if you work any Florida shows on the east coast - I live in Port St. Lucie, FL, just at the border of Martin county -Stuart, FL. In order to save money, I've worked shows down to Ft. Lauderdale and driven back to my own home each night.
Should you or any artist with good character and conscience ever work any shows that are in a decent proximity to my home, you're welcome to a free room with a good queen air mattress and your own bathroom. Thanks again, Jan
I have done the Howard Alan Colorado circuit for several years and will be there this year as well. First, since you are already planning for it, I would advise applying right away in December when the applications are up on Zapp. I have friends who live north of Boulder so for much of the time in between shows I stay with them. During the shows I have found that Airbnb is the way to go, except for Aspen. There is nothing inexpensive in Aspen except for the nearby US Forest Service campground (named Difficult). The best place to stay in Aspen is the St. Moritz Lodge; chose the shared hostel option. You will share the room with another woman. Again, reserve a spot there as soon as you know you are accepted. July is busy in Aspen so the rooms fill up (another reason to apply early). The St. Moritz is delightful! The staff is super-friendly and does not change from year to year. There is a heated outdoor pool, a steam room, they provide a very nice breakfast, and in the late afternoon they provide cookies and a large bottle of chardonnay in the main common room. There will probably be several young people at the lodge who are there for the Aspen Music School; they often practice in the common room. One year I shared a room with a sweet girl from China who spoke little English, was terrified of moths, and practiced cello. Another year we were treated to some hot jazz piano (yes, there is a baby grand in the common room). I splurged and stayed an entire week that year.
I was accepted to the Aspen show -- and to the State Street fair in Ann Arbor, Michigan, both on the same weekend. As I am from Denver, Aspen is closer, 6 hours or so, vs 18? to Michigan but.. made the decision to go to the Michigan show. So, i hope that was a good decision, time will tell.
Many thanks, Jan - thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to give me a wealth of information. Much appreciated.
My income stream is increasing, but most of my profits have been going back into the more expensive basics of my business including a decent website & good transportation. Outfitting my van to fit storage needs, and purchasing pro panels this summer is next.
Can't wait to answer the call to move beyond the Florida state line.
A question, how was the show for you?
Howard Alan isn't the only option in Colorado. Jim Delutes offers a set of 40 Colorado show applications that can help you fill your schedule.
http://www.coloradoartisttour.com/
Larry Berman
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100
Thanks Larry!