Hi, all! A-RTS in Bethesda vs. Art in the Park in Richmond. Lucky enough to get into both, which take place on the same weekend. I live equidistant. I've seen the reviews - but still wonder - has anyone done both? I am a painter, with bright, unframed expressionist pieces.
Thanks for any insights!
Replies
Carrie,
I have done Arts in the Park for the last two years and will be there this year.
My experience is that it is a very good show. I know many talk about being too many artists there, but since it basically is the only show in town, it has been good to me.
Last year the crowds were good, and they were buying. It literally is in Byrd Park in the central part of Richmond, but there is ample artist parking and the volunteers are very helpful. There is also easy access from the nearby Downtown Expressway. Best guesstimate would be about 25% jewelry, with a good mix of others from furniture to silver. Even though there are a lot of artists there, the layout is such that you can easily walk the entire show.
Hope this has been helpful,
Wayne
Hi Wayne -- Thanks for the input! I am still on the fence, but leaning toward Rockville... sigh. Now I am off wondering again.
Hi Carrie - Minor correction in case it affects your travel plans: A-RTS is in Rockville, MD
I have little experience with each show, Carrie, but here is what I know:
1. We did Art in the Park in Richmond once, quite some time ago so things may have changed. Big crowds, lots of inexpensive work, people out to enjoy the show, walk around the park, see their friends. It is probably a good market for traditional work, particularly good craft.
2. A-RTS is new, this will be its second year. It is run by people who know about "art shows". First year reports were very excited. High end work did sell. This demographic is much more diverse than the other and more generally affluent and from a broader base, not as regional an audience.
Guess where I'd go.
Thanks, Connie, and Bill, too. Bill, your review from last year was very helpful, and Connie, your answer here is helpful, too. And yes, Rockville, not Bethesda. Getting it mixed up because of Bethesda Row... Appreciate it, both of you. Thanks!