Anyone who hasn't been successful in South Florida can not blame the weather. This has been one of the most beautiful winters in years. Sure we are in a drought but we're talking art festivals here and not farmers' crops or the sad state of our lawn.
Key Biscayne used to be a locally run show that is now run by Howard Alan. He has improved the show, bringing in better artists and more from out of town. There are always artists there that I haven't seen anywhere else during the winter shows. It is a smaller show, all the commercial booths are in one area away from the artists and it is in a straight line so you know where you have been and where you are going. I didn't see a lot of bags and I did see a lot of lonely artists. Some artists were surprised that what they perceived as a wealthy area had so few buyers. I found one wonderful jeweler who made amazing pieces and bought a beautiful necklace from her. Overall, I was a little disappointed in the show. I felt no energy and I was there both days.
Today was Islamorada's Island fest. There is an art festival there as part of the festivities that included a car show, taste of Islamorada and lots of activities for the kids. This is a show that you do because you deserve a weekend in Islamorada at the end of the Florida art festival season. I cannot adequately explain or photograph what the water looks like from the festival area. It is absolutely breathtaking. There are boats anchored out in this little bay, people are splashing in the water, there are activities going on for the kids (I still regret not entering the hula hoop contest on the beach) and there is music but none of it is intrusive. The art is on a wide road that leads me to believe that load in and out are fairly easy. The quality this year was an improvement over last year but it is still very inconsistent. There is a definite shortage of fine craft. Regardless, if you want an excuse to go to the keys, want to spend some time in one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and maybe make some money, this could be the festival for you. (and don't forget the smoked fish dip contest, it is must eat)
Of course one of the most fun things about any festival is getting to meet fellow AFI'ers. Today I got to see the beautiful work of Dawn Vertrees and meet the wonderful artist who creates these pieces. She is wonderful and so passionate about her work. She explained the lost wax method of jewelry design and I finally understand it. Overall, I think she had the best work at the festival.
So this is the end of my Florida festivals. We head up north in a couple of weeks. Atleast half of the car will be filled with my finds from this season. I can't wait to add these to the collections already there.
Comments
Nels, it is in Founder's Park and it is produced by the local chamber of commerce. Booth fee is $160. I think that Islamorada has some of the most beautiful water in the world. We go to Islamorada atleast once a month when we are down here.
Where will you be this summer? If you are within driving distance, you know I'll come visit! (you need a website with your calendar!!!)
I am SO glad you understood the lost wax process, Geri. That has been an interesting discussion here.
Many thanks for all your Florida reports - you've filled in many holes in the schedule, plus from the other side of the booth it has been fun to hear your ideas. And thanks for finding the AFI'ers and chatting them up, and dare I say, purchasing also! Please send me your address so I can send you a Red Dot.
Larry, glad to hear you and Amanda did well - and especially I wish you well at Bayfront this weekend. I hope this new event turns out the crowds and the buyers and that it will bring new energy to Miami for art lovers. Please let us know how it goes!
Good luck at Bayfront. I am curious as to how it will be received. I haven't seen much advertising for it. I am taking a pass on it, it is Masters Weekend!!
When I walked past your booth at KB, you were busy so I didn't stop. Glad Amanda had a good show.
Hey Geri:
Amanda and I did this show and it was one of the best shows we had this year. The crowd seemed a little thin, but the people who came made Amanda happy. On to the Bayfront park show this weekend!