Diving In Headfirst: My First Solo Art Show Experience
Trying something unknown is never easy. Even though I grew up surrounded by art shows thanks to my parents, it wasn’t until July 2024 that I embarked on my own solo adventure into the world of art markets. With no clue what to expect or whether it would be successful, I leaped into the deep end, signing up for a mega two-day market at the local convention center. The stakes were high, with an anticipated crowd of up to 2,000 shoppers per hour and a hefty entry fee of $250. For those who know me well, diving headfirst into such a venture, often with a bit of flair and a lot of enthusiasm, is just how I roll.
The Pre-Show Jitters and Preparations
Knowing I needed guidance, I reached out to my niece, a seasoned artist in Minnesota. She had been the flower girl at my wedding, and it was surreal to seek advice from the all-grown-up version of her. Her tips were invaluable, though a bit late for me:
- Visit Markets First: She suggested checking out markets before committing. (Oops—too late for that one!)
- Start Small: Begin with a smaller market to test the waters. (Oops again—more on this later!)
- Network with Vendors: Engage with fellow vendors to learn what works for them.
Despite missing these steps, I forged ahead, assembling my display arsenal:
- A 6-foot table (though an 8-foot table was provided)
- Adjustable hanging racks
- Hooks for hanging
- Tablecloths, price tags, business cards
- Table signs (both a banner and a stand-alone sign)
- Shopping bags and care cards
- Packing materials
- A $89 four-part pegboard folding panel
I spent about $700 buying supplies to make my first market a success. About a month before the big event, I began crafting "smalls"—stained glass suncatchers priced under $35—and paused adding new items to my online shop to ensure ample inventory.
Trial and Error
To fine-tune my setup, I staged my display in my bathroom—the only space large enough to handle my 6-foot table and folding panel while keeping my mischievous dogs at bay. This mock setup was crucial. I discovered two major needs:
- Levels in Display: My display needed dimensionality, so I crafted some 3D elements.
- Proper Lighting: Stained glass shines best when backlit. Without proper lighting, my pieces looked flat.
I addressed these issues by investing in two types of lights: rechargeable soft white lights (three in total) and brighter battery-operated lights. Both were magnetic and could be mounted on my metal display bars. The difference was striking!
The Unexpected Blessing
Three weeks before the main event, I stumbled upon a flyer for a local arts and crafts fair at the Elks Club. With a modest fee of $20, I decided to participate. Although the show was small—drawing about 150 people over six hours—it was a goldmine of insights. I sold five pieces, which was a modest success, but the real value lay in the feedback and networking opportunities.
Talking to other vendors proved incredibly beneficial. Their encouragement and advice were invaluable. I learned about local juried shows and discovered an outdoor art market that runs bi-weekly for only $35.
The Mega Show: A Roller Coaster of Emotions
The big event was a whirlwind! My display toppled at one point, but fortunately, nothing broke. I met fantastic vendors, discovered new opportunities, and even received invites to additional juried art shows. Despite a few hiccups, I sold a substantial number of pieces and made connections with clients interested in repairs and custom work.
What Sold and What Didn’t
The results were surprising. Contrary to my expectations, my coastal-themed items didn’t fly off the shelves. Instead, I sold two large, higher-priced pieces and a range of items in the $40-45 range. It seems people were more excited about finding unique birthday presents, Christmas gifts, and delightful little treasures for themselves.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this journey, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the connections made. From the small show at the Elks Club to the grandeur of the mega market, every step has been a valuable part of my growth as an artist. If you’re considering diving into the world of art markets, remember: preparation, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are key.
Here’s to more art shows, more lessons, and more diving in headfirst—screaming and all!