This past weekend we were at An Art Affair in Springfield, IL. This show is produced by Ed Martin, a fellow artists. (http://www.edmartinart.com/) This was the second year for the show and the second time we exhibited at the show. Ed does a great job of taking care of artists and trying to bring in attendees. If you judge a show only by the number of attendees, then you will be disappointed by this show. BUT is you are interested in having conversations with the art-lovers, you might want to consider this show in 2013. There are times that there is virtually no one in the building. But there are other times that we had 6 people in our booth. Sales were up about 6% over last year, at this show. Our total expenses (including booth fee, hotel and gas) was about $400 and we made a nice little profit above that amount. Not bad for a new show AND a spring-time show.
Yes, there were exhibitors who were complaining about the show and were trying to bring us into their misery. But they quickly stopped, when they realized we were not going to join in their pain. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy, when it comes to the quality of a show. Realistic expectations are needed. Its a new show, its Spring, the economy is still recovering. When considering all of these factors, we had a good show and we will return next year, depending on the schedule. Thanks to Ed for putting this show together. It is not easy! Next stop Bloomington Spring Fling!
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Thanks for the review Colin - glad you enjoyed the show :)
Thanks Colin for the review. Good luck at Bloomington.
Yes, Bloomington Spring Fling is the last of our indoor shows for the spring. Hopefully May 5 will bring good weather, cause its our first outdoor show of the year. Yikes!
Hey, Colin,
We were there, too. I loved this show. We did okay and thought that the excellent treatment of the artists, as well as the high quality of the the art, across the board, made this a show we really look forward to repeating. We hope that it continues to "live long and prosper." Good luck at the Bloomington Spring Fling! Is this another inside show?