We've had record heat - in the mid to upper 90's with humidity..... so it's been a bit brutal for the artists. Friday was a miserable sales day for me (I have mixed media art). It was the lowest sales day I've ever had. Many of the artists said the same thing - although I did have two booths near me who did really well. I haven't had much help for this show - so I've been stuck at my booth and unable to talk to as many other artists as I'd like.
Today was a better day for sales - but still really low for me. I don't think this is the show for my type of art. What I did sell was low end $30 pieces. Only one piece over $100.
Move in was great - very organized and full of friendly volunteers. I have no complaints at all with the organization or the support people involved with the show. Just the normal problems with an oceanfront show.... expensive parking and streets blocked off for the parade and a marathon.
I did this show last year and did really well. Big, big change this year. I'm so happy I'm local and don't have a hotel charge. At this point, I'm not losing money - and I'm counting on a good day tomorrow (should be about 15 degrees cooler). I have noticed that there are not as many out-of-town people attending. Last year that's where all my big sales came from.... not from the locals. This year it seems like just locals who are really hurting for money. I actually had someone ask for a better deal on a $28 piece - that really should have been priced at $40.
One other thing... I was soooo disappointed in the judge this year. Honestly, she didn't even slow down to look at my work. Just breezed on by. As she passed, I heard her criticize the work in the booth next to me.... ouch! The only slow down was by the woman with her who put the little dot on my name placard. In my book - it would be nice if the judge at least pretended that she actually looked at the work displayed.
At this point, I'm thinking I won't apply next year. Booth fee is too expensive for the return. We'll see about tomorrow. Got my fingers crossed.
I'll write tomorrow with the wrap up. Gotta have some wine and hydrate.
Kathy Rose
Comments
Sooooo glad you had a good show!! That's great to hear.
I had also heard that the attendance this year was the largest on record. Thanks for sharing positive news.
I hope your next show will feature a great improvement in sales.
Today (Sunday) was much cooler - but crowds were also much smaller. Sat. was the big crowd day - despite the 95 degree weather. We had nice weather all day until 5:15 - when the rain came. Got all the tents nice and wet - and scared all the last minute buyers away.
I did make a profit - but very small. The people who came to this show are NOT the type who buy original art. Most all the artists I talked with said the same thing.... slow, slow, slow.
I'll be in the Stockley Gardens Art show next month - sure hope it's a good show.
Kathy Rose