A couple weeks ago, I asked if anyone had ever done a dog show. Well, with encouragement from you and others, I drove to Hartford, CT, and did the King's Foot Guard Dog Show at the XL Center.
It was a good show and a good experience for me. I got one large commission - and an abstract one at that (check out Roy and Bert to see what I mean), which makes me so happy.
Set-up was remarkably easy. Just drive up to the spot and unload, and there you go. I was the only painter there, which was fantastic for me. I think I might be the only painter who's ever been there, so people were very interested (not the dog show people, really, though there was a little interest from them. The visitors to the show were interested). I got a bunch of very good leads, too, which I believe will turn into sales.
After a series of terrible shows in Florida, it was a delight to be at a show where people were interested, happy, and open. It was great to have a bunch of dogs around all the time, too.
There was none of the art-show folderol that can be so grating. No one raised an eyebrow if I sat instead of stood. I had lunch in my booth. I talked to my husband on the phone. I'd never do any of this at an art show, I realized - and if I did, whoever was in the booth across the way would probably look askance at me.
The atmosphere was so relaxed, the show was so easy, and it was such fun that I've decided I'm going to work more dog shows into the schedule.
And that leads me to my realization: I am not in this To Do Art Shows, though while I'm applying and being accepted and rejected, and going to the shows and working the shows and thinking about the shows and planning for the shows, I begin to think - without even knowing it - that I AM in it to do art shows.
But I'm not. I'm in it to have a life in which art is at the heart and soul. I'm in it to make a living by making and selling art - and if I can do that and never go to another art show, I won't be sorry. I would celebrate!
It took three rotten shows and a dog show to get me to understand this point.
Of course, I will keep doing art shows, because that's one very good place to find customers. But I'm going to try all sorts of other venues, too.
(ps I have attached a photo of my booth at the dog show, which is very spare compared to my usual set-up).
Replies
Hey Carrie, so happy for you. When you run across something that makes you happy, you should stick with it. If you are selling your art and you had fun doing it, that is what is important. Good for you.
Ray- Arizona has a lot of wine & fine art festivals. Check out Thunderbird Artists
I have a wine related product that sells really well. I am wanting to find more wine shows/events where I can sell art but most imoportantly my wine thingy- however its not real easy to find these where art and vendors are participants. And yes, I have tried "the Google", many, many time. The events that look most promising are far away. Lover to hear about any that you mayhave run across. The Art and Wine Walk in St Louis was a good show for me last year.
Ray - we participate in a few art and wine events on the West Coast (WA/OR/CA), how far are you willing to travel? If you are willing to travel to the West Coast I can provide several suggestions.
I know you are new to the business, Carrie, but not new to painting. This is a wonderful country where we can take our talents, whims and interests and explore. What a cool thing this is for you. I know people who have attended equestrienne events, farmers markets, home shows, all kinds of things. So cool that you have found this new place where you can share your work and your love of you subject matter.
Hi, Connie, thanks so much for your comment and your inspiration. There are all sorts of places and ways to sell art and make a living - and it's easy, at times, to lose sight of the incredible opportunities we all have!
Congratulations!
You found a place where you were doing something different! And you discovered what I have been saying for years. Be the only one doing what you're doing and you can be successful.
And wasn't it just plain fun to be able to enjoy the show instead of having your guard up all the time?
Chris, that was about the best thing of all. I really enjoyed the show! Thanks for the comment.
Hi, Ellen, and thanks so much for the comment and for your ongoing interest and support. This whole dog show thing has started my wheels turning...