Everyone's Blog Posts - Art Fair Insiders

Larry Berman's Zoom Meeting Tuesday 4 PM Eastern Time

2021-08-16T01:59:01.000Z

Larry Berman's Zoom Meeting - Now Tuesdays at 4PM
Same day and time each week to give artists that are doing shows a chance to get home and relax. From now on I'll be sending out the reminder e-mail on Tuesday morning to my Zoom mailing list.

Art show artists, we need some new participants. There must be some questions you want to ask about doing shows or selling your art. I have forty years experience doing art shows and answer most of the questions here on Art Fair Insiders.

Tuesday August 17th, 4:00 PM Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/4338895789?pwd=NXFRME9JRFdMK3VDUEJhdHJ5T2daQT09

Meeting ID: 433 889 5789
Passcode: art-show

Anything art show related can be discussed and booth pictures can be critiqued if you want. If you have a booth picture to post, please e-mail it to me so I can share it during the meeting.

Larry Berman
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100

Armstrong Display Panels for Sale (Holland, Michigan)

2021-08-14T18:50:19.000Z

Five display panels made by Armstrong. Four have carpet attached to one side, while the fifth one has a detachable cover for both sides. Buy one @ $40 each or all for $175. Local pickup only. Call 863-815-9333 or text 321-6522544 for details and address. Email: rcfulwiler@gmail.com.

Art Show Event - Aloft Hotel North Olmsted, Ohio - AUG 26th

2021-08-14T16:55:08.000Z

4 Ways to Find New Customers

2021-08-13T20:06:13.000Z

As an artist or crafter, you get to do something you love for work every day. Running a creative small business allows you to grow your business in fun ways. However, finding new customers can sometimes be a challenge.

Here are four tips to help you grow your customer base.

1. Build An Online Presence

It’s no secret that social media is a great way for small businesses to reach big audiences. You craft beautiful pieces that you can showcase on a platform like Instagram. Facebook Marketplace can help connect you with people in your community that are looking to purchase from you. You can even discuss your work and show your creative process through YouTube.

2. Join An Online Marketplace

With the rise of online shopping, 2.14 billion people worldwide are buying products online. The ecommerce industry gives you the opportunity to tap into a global marketplace, expanding your business to new borders. Online marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay, are a great place to start, but it can be hard for small businesses to gain recognition. Sites like Jane and Etsy are built specifically for artists like you to sell handmade products.

3. Create A Referral Program

How often do you buy something a friend recommends or ask for a family member’s opinion before making a purchase? Referrals are a great way to find new customers and one of the best marketing methods.Creating a referral program allows you to tap into your loyal customer base and find people already interested in your product. When a customer refers to another person who makes a purchase, you get a new customer and they both get a small discount.

4. Join A Local Festival

A fantastic way to connect with your community is by becoming an exhibitor at a local festival, show, market, or event. Festival exhibitors have the unique opportunity to meet customers face-to-face, see what kinds of products people like, network with other artists, and promote your online business.

Try New Things

As a small business owner, you have the freedom to try new marketing tactics without much risk. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Adjust your strategy if something is not working and focus on the methods that work. Your next customer is waiting for you!

Light-Dome Craft tent for sale

2021-08-13T17:00:00.000Z

For Sale (Highlands Ranch, CO)

Reply to jake1@ecentral.com

Light-Dome Craft Fair Tent and Accessories $800.00 OBO

This is an excellent craft show and art fair tent that is waterproof and works well in severe weather conditions.

Includes:

Aluminum tent poles with zippered carrying bag

Roof

Four zippered sides

Awnings, front and right side

Four corner braces

Stabilizer bars

Pro panels for sale in Texas

2021-08-12T20:00:00.000Z

I have 7 "knock down" 7 ft panels with extender feet. Dark Charcoal color. Zippered Carrying Cases for all panels and hardware. Panel skirts for across the bottom makes for a much neater appearance.

This includes 5 telescopic stabilizer bars which you can attach lighting to, also

3-corner locks

3-45 degree locks

5- panel locks

2- T locks

1- X lock/ great for setting up 4 panels with 8 selling sides in an X formation

1- Fold a Desk with shelf in Onyx (40 inch height)

2-Large Print Bins in Dark Charcoal

2- indoor/outdoor Pedestals in Medium Gray

I am asking $1400 for all or best offer. This set up is like brand new! Only used 3 times.

Pick up only.

You can email me at dkollaritsch@yahoo.com

or call or text me at 936-615-3895

Nacogdoches Texas

Trim line Canopy tent by Flourish 10x10 located in Texas

2021-08-12T19:00:00.000Z

Tent in good condition, includes 10x10 awning, stabilizer bar kit for 3 sides, 4 heavy duty sandbags,

pole and tent bags, Flourish mesh wall panels (set of 3) also have Dark burgundy fireproof show curtains with poles.

I'm asking $1300 or best offer. Pick up only.

You can email me if you like at dkollaritsch@yahoo.com

Text or call me at 936-615-3895

Nacogdoches Texas

Protecting your jewelry at an Art Show

2021-08-11T21:56:46.000Z

Just wondering if anyone has used wireless security cameras at an art show and posted that their booth was secured with cameras? Usually there are two of us manning the booth at an art show but I'm still being hit. I did a show in RI a short while ago and someone walked off with a $149.00 pair of seaglass earrings. They took the earrings and the earring holder. At a show a few years ago (I was by myself) someone walked off with a necklace and bracelet valued at $550.00 while I was busy with a customer. I do have glass cases but I also have a lot of my jewelry out on forms so that people can touch and try. I'm thinking of using wireless security cameras, has anyone tried this?

brand new K D Kanopy top leaked

2021-08-11T19:09:13.000Z

And it caused matting to get wet, about $500.00 in damaged materials and labor. The sales Rep, Clint Nagel, refused satisfaction and put it on me to have known in advance that the top would leak. Warning others to avoid this company. Suggestions as to how to proceed?

East Lansing Art Festival—Plus a great Tequila Report— Searching for sushi with Barry Bernstein

2021-08-11T17:30:00.000Z

Well, this show was last weekend. Usually it is in mid-May but because of COVID it was moved to August. It was cancelled last year.

They made it a smaller show, 85 booths instead of 150-plus. Also the competing craft show, on campus, was not moved to August, which would had made it another 300 booths.

That said, it is early August in the height of summer season in Michigan, and all the “Good Shoes People” are up north in their summer cottages.

Which means it was a Lowend selling show.

But, they were buying.

Itwas a nice setup. They had one block of 20 artists facing each other with the road in the middle. The other 65 booths were on a straight line down a perpendicular street. Only problem was, we were all crammed in side to side. I guess they forgot about COVID. This is only the second show this year that has no spacing. The other one was the Bonita Springs shows.

That said, the show is held right in the heart of the business district with retail and food biz everywhere.

Normally, this show is held in mid May, the college is happening and professionals biz people are out buying. It is the only show there for the year.

I have done it since the 90’s, and it always been a $3-4K show, mostly Lowend sales. When I found out it was only 85 booths, I was licking my chops. Unfortunately, the serious buyers never showed up. But, a lot of artists had not done a show for a year,and they were hungry. They were happy to be out again. If they only made $1K, so what, it was money in the account.

I was fortunate to clear $3K, that is still a great amount for a two day small time show. We are not talking Saint Louis here.

My neighbor was a great painter who did a underlay map of Michigan with local scenes over painted, like the Mackinaw Bridge. Her fiancé was busy going back to the van for more stock all weekend.

I never saw any real big pieces go by me, and my booth was dead center, number 44. Maybe they got picked up later or went out at either end. The crowd was young and energetic, and valued our art. Lots of good comments. “That is seriously sick man!” I think the May time is better and hopefully next year it will be there.

Now, how about a Lansing Tequila Report.

The fourth time is the charm—finding a good sushi bar, with booze, in East Lansing.

I shared a room with Barry Bernstein for the show. He is more renowned than me, and that is not easy to do. He has been out on the circuit for centurys. They are thinking of putting his face on Mount Rushmore in place of Crazyhourse—is that sick! Barry does great ceramic pottery and gets into the best of shows, ahem, Cherry Creek next. I was hoping rooming with him, some of that would rub off on me, besides his snoring.

I know, WTF, does this have to do with Tequila Report?

I am slowly getting there, I am using the Hemingway experience. Live, breathe, read, stay with me, if necessary drink a margarita. So, Friday, after we setup, I said, “Let us go find a good sushi restaurant.” Barry has eaten with me many times and usually likes my choices. So, I used Google Maps and found four good sushi choices, none that I had been to before.

The first one we went to was four blocks from the show. I got there first. When I walked in I saw a small counter with chairs. Saw two people munching on a sushi roll. Saw no sushi refrigerated cabinet with fresh fish. Perflexed, I looked at this small Asian man who pointed to the ceiling. ”What!” I exclaimed. “Menu on the ceiling, all rolls” he said.

I asked if he did Uzusukuri (a dish of sashimi grade whitefish sliced razor thin), he looked at me like I was a crazy man. ”We only do rolls, mostly for takeout.” Oh, and they did not do any alcohol. Wham,bam! I was out of there.

Barry had just pulled into the lot. He drives real slowly like most of the old farts that I grew up with in Saint Petersburg. God! Do not let me end up like this. He is a safe driver, just slow…and very…steady. So back to Google Maps and I find a promising choice—Korean Sushi Bar. Let’s go.

I let him lead on this one. He had his GPS map on it, and you know how that can go. We drove by the place twice before we found it. We walked in, place looked promising. Saw a sushi chef slicing at the bar, thank God, she missed her fingers. Waitress came and led us to a nice sunlit booth. My mouth was watering with anticipation. I asked, “Do you sell alcohol here, like sake and beer.” She solemnly nodded, “No!” I was ready to leave but Barry was hungry and ready to eat. So, I was all in.

The waiter brought us two bottles of water with iced cups. Then, we waited, and waited,and waited, and she never returned. We were out of there. Barry was hungry, but I was hungrier and wanted booze too. I have never eaten sushi in my life without a hot sake and Sappharro beer.

We spotted a Thai restaurant around the corner. ”Let us do Thai, they always have booze,” says Barry. I was all in. At that point I would have eaten grilled Phad Thai off a heated sidewalk if I had sake too. The place was around the corner from the Korean place. It had a large takeout counter with menu boards hanging from the ceiling. No alcohol served.

We said,”Loggone” and fled the place.

So Barry got on his phone and found a promising choice. It was billed as San Su, a sushi restaurant with Cocktails. I was all in. I followed Barry in his aging Ford-Michigan-encrusted-rusted-Upper Peninsula van. We got lost again, fricking GPS. But we got there. It is about 7:45 pm now. We have spent almost a good hour trying for sushi..with booze.

I loved the look of the place. From the outside it was sleek charcoal building with large windows that went floor to ceiling. You could hear people chattering while munching,the place waxed energy. We walked in, and we saw about 25 people waiting in the lobby. The place was fantastic, sleek tables, slim razor chairs,modern bowls and utensils. The sushi bar was as long as a runway in Daytona with 16 empty chairs. Oops! Sleek alcohol bar with slim high back chairs, nobody in them.

Hopefully, because I know at most sushi bars people want to eat at the table, not the sushi bar, Iasked, “Can we eat at the sushi bar?” ”We are short of staff, only seating at tables, it is a 30 minute wait.” The greeter said. We were hungry, we’re not leaving here, this was our Alamo sushi moment, I would have traded my Jim Bowie knife for a set of chopsticks in a Mexican moment.

The lobby was jammed and I spied the empty chairs at the more empty bar. I figured Barry and I could tell old Art fair war stories for 30 minutes. And we did. About 40 minutes later, our friendly host spotted us. ”I did not forget about you guys, but…I forgot there are three groups ahead of you. ”How much longer?” My head, inches off the bar, I was sake-driven with no prospect of salvation.

Then Barry made the best quote of the night which led to our salvation. He said,”Well, maybe you should comp us a few beers for being so compliment rather then belligerent.” The guy looked at Barry like he was talking Greek and walked away. Soon, maybe five minutes later, this well groomed, and well built, guy shows up behind the bar-bar where we were sitting. He was tiny, with a pencil thin mustache and he radiated confidence. ”So, do you guys want to eat appetizers here with drinks.” Music to my ears.

Barry, mused for a minute, and asked can we do entrees too? I shushed him and told tiny Mike (we found out he was the manager of the place) “please get me a large hot sake and a 16 oz Kirin beer." Barry did the same, without sake.

(Stay tuned for the rest of the story. CM)

Call for Artists: Babcock Ranch Art Show

2021-08-11T10:00:00.000Z

March 12 & 13
Babcock Ranch, Florida
Founder's Square
Opening night VIP event: March 11
Saturday 10am-5pm & Sunday 10am-4pm
85+ Artists
Deadline: October 22

Application fee: $25 Booth fee: $325

Apply now at:

https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9378

More information: BabcockRanchArtShow.com

The Babcock Ranch Art Show, produced by the experienced ArtFest Fort Myers staff, is now a 2½ day boutique art show held in the new town of Babcock Ranch. This FREE-to-the-public art show will feature 85 exceptional artists centered in Founders Square overlooking Lake Babcock. Babcock Ranch is the first solar-powered town in the U.S. surrounded by seven new neighborhoods.

The Babcock Ranch Art Show is dedicated to promoting and showcasing your artwork. Extensive promotion, featuring YOUR artwork, to neighboring cities in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties assures that the buying public will be eager to see you. Advertising will include newspapers, radio, billboards, and online advertising with paid and organic Facebook ads all featuring artist work.

The Babcock Ranch Art Show has artist-friendly procedures in place to ensure that your weekend with us is pleasant and profitable. Our Artist Hospitality team is there to greet and direct you on Set Up Day and is available to you all weekend. Artists are set in a circular flow around Founders Square that allows booths to have at least 3 feet of space in the lakefront setting.

Artist Perks include:

Drive-up access to your booth location on set-up day (Friday morning) with ample behind-booth storage
Indoor bathrooms
Convenient free artist parking adjacent to the Art Show site
Professional overnight security
Oversized booth spaces with at least three feet between booths and ample storage space behind

Babcock Ranch Art Show is accessible to all artists, including those with disabilities. Physical accessibility includes booths with no physical barrier to entry, parking on solid surface with continual paved path to artist's booth; accessible bathrooms and on-site artist support volunteers for questions. Please indicate any specific accommodations needed in your ZAPP application.

Artists are selected in a jury process to create a well-balanced show that represents artistic diversity in the following categories: Ceramics, Digital, Drawing/Pastels, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Metal, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Watercolor, Wearable and Wood.

If you are new to the idea of selling at outdoor art festivals, please contact us for any support you may need -

we love to help.

Our staff is available to talk about any details you seek and to take a peek at your images in advance and provide feedback on "jury strength," at least in our opinion based on 20+ years of watching juries. We love talking with artists and are happy to share our insights to support artists' success.

BE A PART OF BABCOCK RANCH ART SHOW:

Apply from June 7, 2021 - October 22, 2021 at
https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9378
Visit our festival website BabcockRanchArtShow.com for more information

Apply Now: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9378

Questions: Erin.Jackson@ArtFestFortMyers.com

Call for Artists: Artsfest at the West Central Home Tour

2021-08-09T10:00:00.000Z

September 11 & 12

Fort Wayne, Indiana

Historic West Central Neighborhood, Downtown

11 am to 5 pm

60 Exhibitors

Early deadline: July 21

Late deadline: August 11

Application fee: $10

Space fee: $75; late $90

We think you'll enjoy spending the weekend with us in this historic neighborhood during its very popular Home Tour (celebrating its 39th year in 2021). The neighborhood was placed on the National Historic Register in 1984 and the ArtsFest takes place in the street in front of these revived workers' cottages and restored mansions. Imagine your booth set among shady trees and enjoy the easy-going vibe, where the residents show off their unique homes to old house lovers. This event regularly brings in about 3,000 people who are ready to look and buy.

The event includes tasty food from a variety of food trucks and live music. Our media sponsor, NPR, brings out the people who will appreciate your one-of-a-kind work.

Limited to 60 artists. Easy setup, casual atmosphere, drive up to your booth. Short hours. Fine music and tasty food from food trucks. Tons of foot traffic. A cool place to spend the weekend and you can't beat the booth fee!

Learn more & apply: www.westcentralneighborhood.org

We'd love to have you join us. How can you resist a weekend in our historic neighborhood? What you'll find ...

West Central Home and Garden Tour & ArtsFest

P. S. I'm posting this because of my personal interest in the events. I moved to Fort Wayne a couple of years ago and my new home is in the West Central neighborhood. If you do this show I'd love to meet you and will probably have a party on my front porch on Saturday night and you are invited. What do you think?

7 Real Life Insurance Claims

2021-08-06T16:53:06.000Z

As a creative, the pieces you make are priceless. As a small business owner, every purchase you make is carefully calculated. Insurance can be expensive, but a single claim could cost you hundreds—if not thousands—in expenses. Without insurance, you would be expected to pay those fees out-of-pocket.

Even the most careful artists, crafters, and tradesmen experience accidents. The most common ACT claims come as a result of someone or something else causing damage. Here are 7 examples of real claims from ACT customers and how to avoid them.

A policy holder reported they had rain damage to business personal property, their handmade notecards, greeting cards, art supplies, and additional prints. With the Business Personal Property coverage on their ACT annual policy, the policy holder was able to receive a payout to help cover the costs of the damage.
- Payout = $592.00
During a meeting, the policy holder’s MacBook Pro was damaged beyond repair by another individual. Because this computer was used for work-related business and had important business information on it, the policy holder was able to receive a payout to help cover the costs of replacing it.
- Payout = $849.00
While at an event, unexpected wind and rain damaged a policy holder’s canopy tent and several pieces of their artwork. This policy holder was able to be reimbursed for some of their losses.
- Payout = $3208.00
During the evening and late night, a storm came through an event area where exhibitors had set up the day before. Tents were thrown everywhere, resulting in a policy holder filing a claim for damaged supplies, artwork, and displays. The annual policy holder was able to replace their items and avoid paying out-of-pocket expenses for other people’s items that were damaged from their tent.
- Payout = $1615.00
At an event, a sudden gust of wind damaged a policy holder’s tent and destroyed their art supplies and easels. The policy holder was able to receive a payout to help replace the damaged items.
- Payout = $2209.00
Upon opening the booth at the start of the business day, the policy holder discovered 72 of their handmade rings were missing. In cases of theft, your annual policy can cover some of your losses. The policy holder was able to make up some of the revenue lost and focus on making new rings to replace them.
- Payout = $2443.00
When shipping an item from the policy holder’s studio to a customer, the art piece was damaged beyond repair. By adding Business Personal Property insurance to your ACT annual policy, you can insure your pieces for shipment over land. This coverage helped the policy holder cover the costs of damaged items and send a new one to the customer.
- Payout = $450.00

One benefit of the ACT annual policy is the option to add on Business Personal Property coverage. This policy could address a claim in the event your unapprised artwork or inventory was damaged or stolen. If it is determined that it fits within the coverage details, you would receive a claims payout based on the cost of replacement materials of the artwork.

For example, a painting may include a canvas, frames, easels, paint, and more. Unfortunately, your claim would not cover the labor to create that artwork. Insurance company payouts typically cover the replacement of the cost of goods and not "market" or "finished" value as that is often subject to interpretation.

Stay Protected With ACT Insurance
Without insurance, a single claim can cost thousands, damage your reputation, or halt business operations. ACT is here to help you stay protected, navigate the claims process, and lower—or even eliminate—expenses. Your craft deserves to be covered, and we are proud to protect artists, crafters, and tradesmen like you.

Call for Artists: Taste of Morgan Hill

2021-08-06T10:00:00.000Z

September 25 & 26
Morgan Hill, California
Historic Downtown area
Saturday 10am-7pm & Sunday 10am-6pm
200 Artists
Deadline: August 15

Booth fee: $375

Located in beautiful, historic, tree-lined downtown Morgan Hill, the Taste of Morgan Hill is held the last weekend in September each year. Attendance estimates are about 50,000 visitors over the two-day event. This is a fun and entertaining family festival with excellent vendors, food and entertainment!

Morgan Hill is Silicon Valley's escape. Centrally located between San Francisco and the Monterey Bay, Morgan Hill is one of the most desirable and fastest growing communities in Santa Clara County.

The Taste of Morgan Hill features fine arts & quality crafts, food booths, local wine & beer gardens, entertainment, night concert, custom & classic car show, quilt show, kids zone with rides & games and promotional vendors in the Business Zone.

The Taste is held in historic Downtown Morgan Hill. This is an outdoor festival and will be held rain or shine!

Apply:
www.morganhillchamber.org/

More info:

https://www.morganhillchamber.org/taste-of-morgan-hill
Contact: Brittney Sherman brittney@morganhillchamber.org

The Resurgence of Art Fairs

2021-08-04T22:00:00.000Z

What a year it has been on our planet! Is there hope for our business? Art fairs are a cultural treasure and 1,000,000's of people attend them every year in our country. Will they survive? I'm kind of thinking there is a touch of eagerness in the air. Do you feel it? This just in from ZAPP, the software company that helps artists and art fairs connect.

1. Some of you were actually exhibiting at art fairs in May and June this year. Did you last year?

2. Can you imagine what this amounted
to in $$$?

Do the math ... how did the festivals stay afloat?

3. Impressive! Back to 2019 figures? Do you think we're going to get back to that?

When do you think we'll be back to normal? Will you be there?

Call for Artists: Halfmoon Lake Art Fair

2021-08-04T10:00:00.000Z

October 2 & 3
Dexter Township, Michigan
Pinckney State Recreation Area
Saturday 11am-7pm & Sunday Noon-5pm
70 Artists
Deadline: August 8

Application fee: $30 Booth fee: $295

Halfmoon Lake Art Fair is a juried all media fine art fair and exquisite craft fair. The site is only about ten miles west of Ann Arbor, Michigan and is near affluent lakeside homes. Halfmoon Lake is part of the Pinckney State Recreation Area which is more than 11,000 acres with hiking, several spring fed lakes for swimming, over thirty miles of mountain bike trails, hiking trails, and equestrian trails.

This particular spot is near the adorable town of Chelsea, home to actor Jeff Daniels. Our spot at Halfmoon Lake is a beautiful setting with a large flat grassy area that is perfect for an art fair. We will also be featuring Michigan BBQ at this event and celebrating autumn.

Apply:
zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9474

More info:

https://www.artfairfun.com/

Contact:
Karyn Stetz
artfairfun@gmail.com

Picking the Perfect Policy

2021-07-28T18:44:49.000Z

Beautiful pieces of work? Created. Perfect display setup? Check. Exhibitor fees? Paid. Certificate of Insurance? Not quite yet...

When preparing to sell your carefully crafted pieces, getting insurance is usually the least exciting part. While it may not be at the top of your list, having top-rated artist insurance is one of the most important investments you can make. But how do you know what kind of policy you need?

For more than a decade, ACT Insurance has made successfully protecting artists, crafters, and tradesmen our top priority. We have created two low-cost policies that you can purchase online in minutes. Both our annual and show policies meet most Exhibitor requirements and help protect you from costly claims.

What is an annual policy?

Designed with creatives like you in mind, the ACT annual policy offers a robust range of customizable coverage options. Not only do you have year-round protection, you have the option to add an unlimited amount of additional insureds and product liability coverage. You will receive your own Certificate of Insurance that helps you meet exhibitor eligibility requirements when attending shows, fairs, markets, exhibitions, and other types of events.

Available only to those who purchase an ACT annual policy, we highly recommend adding cyber liability insurance to your coverage. In the case of a cyber attack, having this policy can help you recover lost or stolen information, inform customers of a data breach, and return funds lost by e-theft.

What is a show policy?

For those who only attend a few events each year, the ACT show policy allows you to customize your policy term. You get to choose what day your coverage starts and how long you want the coverage to last. Our standard show policy covers you for 1-3 consecutive days, with the option to add on additional days for up to 7 days. We even offer a 90 consecutive day coverage option, which is ideal if you plan on attending several events in one season.

Just like the annual policy, you have immediate coverage from the start date you select and 24/7 access to policy documents—including your Certificate of Insurance. You are also covered in 50 states and have the option to add an unlimited number of additional insureds.

However, the show policy does have some exclusions. If you are looking to cover your business for demonstrations, protect your equipment and supplies, or insure the products you sell, our annual policy allows you to customize your coverages.

Which policy do I need?

While each of our policies are offered through an A+ rated insurance carrier, it really comes down to how much coverage you need and for how long. Easily compare both options and find the right coverage for you below:

	ANNUAL POLICY	SHOW POLICY
24/7 Access to Policy Documents
Licensed in All 50 States
Not Premises Specific
$2M General Liability Aggregate
$1M General Liability Per Occurrence
$5K Medical Expenses
Coverage for Damages to Premises Rented to You	$300K Limit	$300K Limit
Coverage While Selling at Events, Festivals, and Shows
No Deductible on Liability Claims
12 Months of Coverage		1-90 days
Products & Completed Operations Coverage	$1M Limit
Business Personal Property Coverage	$5K/$10K Limits
Personal & Advertising Injury Coverage	$1M Limit
General Liability for Online Sales
Optional Professional Liability

Stay Protected With ACT

Whether you select the show or annual policy, ACT has your back. For over a decade, we have helped thousands of artists, crafters, and tradesmen access events, grow their businesses, litigate claims, and stay protected from the unexpected. Your craft deserves to be covered.

Call for Artists: ArtFest Fort Myers

2021-07-27T10:00:00.000Z

February 5 & 6
Fort Myers, Florida
Downtown Fort Myers
Option to participate in Opening Night: February 4
Friday 5pm-9pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am-5pm
200+ Artists
Deadline: September 10

We are beyond excited for ArtFest Fort Myers 2022! ArtFest Fort Myers is coming back as you knew us pre-COVID, 200+ artists with a great layout overlooking beautiful Downtown Fort Myers alongside the riverfront and yacht basin. A FREE, non-gated event for all members of the Southwest Florida community to come shop your artwork.

As a result of the Coronavirus Pandemic, many home buyers and new residents from big northern cities are making their way to smaller cities in Southwest Florida. The cities seeing the most migration are Fort Myers and Cape Coral who are adding 50 new people on average a day according to David Cobb at Market Watch 2021. With all of these new residents there is an overwhelming desire for art to fill attendees’ hearts and enhance their homes.

How do we promote for you?

All advertising messages and media will be targeted to bring art buyers to you! Drawing in art lovers, experienced and new collectors and educated buyers, who are year-round residents and those visiting Southwest Florida during the peak of season, is our primary goal.

$175,000 Marketing Campaign targeted to art buyers from Marco Island to Sarasota to West Palm Beach and beyond. We are getting the word out about your fabulous art work via TV, radio, digital billboards, glossy magazines, theater/symphony programs, our website, eVites, and year-round Facebook, with paid ads and organic postings. We know the importance of online advertising and having a social media presence. Social media works best when artists & art festivals work together.

How do we assist with artist success?

We have multiple resources to help build your business to create more revenue streams. We have also partnered with experts to bring you video trainings on the power of video, Images for Jury and Websites, and much more. There are opportunities for artists to participate in Artist-based promotions leading up to the festival. Please feel free to be in touch with any questions. We love talking with artists and we want you to succeed in all aspects of your art business.

If you are new to the idea of selling at an outdoor Art Festival, please contact us for any support you may need- we love to help.

Learn More Here

At ArtFest Fort Myers, you will find:

Two-day, FREE to the public, community event, with 90,000 attendees
Year-round professional staff, with 22+ years of consistent management
New and cutting-edge art is equally at home with more traditional work
Loyal base of dedicated art buyers/VIP members who are focused on YOUR work
Attracting young professional families with free fun art related activities for kids of all ages
Encouraging the next generation of artists and art supporters with a high school art competition; sidewalk chalk competition; kids art activities.

How do we take care of artists?

Oversized booth spaces – 3 feet between booths & ample storage space behind
Easy Friday Set-up with scheduled staggered drive-up access beginning at 8:30am
Artists' Hospitality includes daily complimentary continental breakfast, water, and private indoor restrooms
Dedicated Artist Ambassadors and Booth Sitters
Discounted hotel rates at area hotels & Luminary Hotel & Co. in the heart of the festival with including covered parking with special artists rates.
Reserved free artist parking with complimentary trolley transportation
Professional 24-hour security
Learn More Here

Be a part of ArtFest Fort Myers:

Apply from May 14th – September 10, 2021 at ZAPPlication.org
Visit our festival website ArtFestFortMyers.com. The Info for Artist page provides artist specific information including hotels, set-up, jury success & many other helpful tips.
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram where we feature festival artists and engage patrons year-round

Apply Now: ZAPPlication.org

Questions: Erin Jackson, Community Engagement Manager
Erin.Jackson@ArtFestFortMyers.com

Economic Impact of the Ann Arbor Art Fair - 2021

2021-07-21T19:00:00.000Z

As focused as we all are on our businesses, selling our art at the art fairs, the events are even more important to the small business owners where the events are held, the business districts and commercial areas. Most events have been started not primarily to focus art but to bring buyers into areas that are looking to increase commerce in other ways.

Here is a report from the store owners in Ann Arbor last week (hint: they were happy):

https://www.clickondetroit.com/all-about-ann-arbor/2021/07/20/it-was-just-terrific-business-owners-talk-ann-arbor-art-fair-successes/#//

We always made it a point to patronize the businesses near our booth during shows. One of my favorite purchases was at Cherry Creek some years ago. There was a cowboy boot store right behind our booth. Growing up I'd always wanted to be a cowgirl some day, so when our earnings were looking pretty good I bought cowboy boots! What about you?

Call for Artists: Palisade Art Festival

2021-07-21T10:00:00.000Z

September 25 & 26
Palisade, Colorado
Veterans' Memorial Park
Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm
65 Artists
Deadline: August 10

Application fee: $35 Booth fee: $375

The quaint town of Palisade attracts visitors from across the state and the world to enjoy their many lush vineyards, Lavendar fields, and other incredible events. Palisade is located on the Western Slope of Colorado just 20 minutes from the bustling city of Grand Junction. This area also includes the Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa.

The Palisade Art Festival will take place in late September at Veterans' Memorial Park right as the fall colors will be in their prime. The park is located just two blocks from the center of downtown Palisade with plenty of free parking.

We are striving to bring an Art Festival to the quaint town of Palisade to compliment their nationally-known annual Peach and wine festivals. We believe a high-quality art festival will be a perfect addition to their other highly-rated annual festivals.

Artist Amenities

Free artists day parking close to show

Free overnight RV parking

Coffee, bagels & donuts each morning

Booth Sitters

Reusable plastic water bottles and water provided throughout the event

Overnight security

Lodging discounts at select hotels in the area

Apply: https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=9007

More info: http://www.mountainartfestivals.com/
Contact: Tina Cunningham MountainArtFestivals@gmail.com

Renting a kit and caboodle [tent and walls/panels]

2021-07-18T02:02:47.000Z

Hey, kids...

I've been out of the biz for a number of years, but got an itch to get on the road again.

But, I sold my tent, pro-panel walls, etc... a few years back.

I only applied to 2 shows, and only got into 1 so far. I'm just putting my toe in the water, and don't know if I'll be getting back to this again, part or full time.

And now, I'm stuck without a tent, pro-panels, etc.. I'm a 2-D artist, so I need walls to display work on.

Any recommendations…

Just Sayin', Does Ann Arbor Still Have it?

2021-07-17T22:30:00.000Z

Anyone who follows this site knows we are fans of the Ann Arbor Art Fair and many, many of the members have "urban legend" stories to tell about their participation there. AND after the last 15 months the great news is that artists were on the streets of that city this week, July 15-17. Crossing our collective fingers for successful days for all involved.

We (AFI) hope that the changes made this year (three days only; three shows only, resulting in a smaller footprint and fewer artists) brought out the buyers and the our business has finally turned a corner.

OMG -- 4 inches of rain on Friday! Were there any folks shopping? Did the artists close their booths? A great quote from Vasil Ivanov, a glass maker, "What are we made of sugar?"
More about the rainy day: https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2021/07/

Did it look like this?

Or did it look like this?

Were you there? We are anxious to hear reports.

Call for Artists: Kekionga Plein Air Event

2021-07-16T10:00:00.000Z

August 24 - 28
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne Artists Guild
Fort Wayne Arts Campus
Begins Wednesday at 10am and
closes on Saturday at 7pm

Registration: $35

The Fort Wayne Artists Guild presents the annual Kekionga Plein Air Event during the Taste of the Arts Festival. Artists will paint at the festival and are encouraged to paint around Fort Wayne and surrounding Allen County. This is a gathering of Plein Air artists and patrons coming together for four days of learning, painting, entertainment, friends and good company. On the final day all work entered in the plein art event will be exhibited to be judged and prizes will be awarded.

The plein air paint out is part of a larger arts weekend held on the Arts Campus in downtown Fort Wayne, adjacent to the art museum. It is Fort Wayne's finest weekend of the year celebrating the arts of dance, music, culinary presentations, and honoring the city's arts institutions.

We hope you'll join us!

Register: http://www.fortwayneartistsguild.org/

More info: http://www.fortwayneartistsguild.org/
Contact: Sandra McGill smcgill1253@gmail.com

Call for Artists: Starved Rock Country Festival of the Arts

2021-07-14T10:00:00.000Z

September 24 - 26
Ottawa, Illinois
Starved Rock Country Community Foundation
Historic Downtown Ottawa
75 Artists
Deadline: August 23

Application fee: $30 Booth fee: $75

The Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund is proud to announce the Starved Rock Country Festival of the Arts - FOTA. Featuring beautiful city parks, the riverfront, and a shopping distric full of locally- owned smalled businesses, the location offers something of interest for everyone!

Presenting a spectacular juried visual arts and film competition in Starved Rock Country, and an exciting weekend filled with art and music for all ages!

Artists and Filmmakers will be competing for cash prizes awarded by professional judges in each category. Visual works of art will be displayed at Jeremiah Joe Coffee; live music throughout the event; kid-friendly activities; great shops and restaurants - you don't want to miss FOTA!

Apply: https://www.fotasrc.org/artist-application

More info: https://www.fotasrc.org/
Contact: Shanna Dugan shanna@srccf.org

Call for Artists: ArtsFest

2021-07-12T10:00:00.000Z

September 11 & 12

Fort Wayne, Indiana

Historic West Central Neighborhood, Downtown

Saturday & Sunday 11 am to 5 pm

60 Exhibitors

Early deadline: July 21

Late deadline: August 11

Application fee: $10

Space fee: $75; late $90

The event includes tasty food from a variety of food trucks and live music. Our media sponsor, NPR, brings out the people who will appreciate your one-of-a-kind work.

Learn more & apply: www.westcentralneighborhood.org

We'd love to have you join us. How can you resist a weekend in our historic neighborhood? What you'll find ...

West Central Home and Garden Tour & ArtsFest

P. S. I'm posting this because of my personal interest in the events. I moved to Fort Wayne a couple of years ago and my new home is in the West Central neighborhood. If you do this show, I'd love to meet you and will probably have a party on my front porch on Saturday night and you are invited. What do you think?

5 Ways to Beat A Creative Block

2021-07-09T20:07:31.000Z

Few things are more infuriating to a creative person than hitting a roadblock. However, every artist or crafter—regardless of experience—will hit these frustrating stopping points. The good news is that there are always things you can do to overcome creative roadblocks. Here are a few ideas to help you find the inspiration for your next piece or to get through a project.

1) RETURN TO NATURE

One of the best places to find inspiration is in nature. There are woodlands, forests, mountains, beaches, and deserts all across the United States, each with unique and inspiring beauty. But there’s more than aesthetic beauty to be found out in the wild.

Nature is a great place for introspection and an escape from the hustle of everyday life. In fact, you should leave your technology and all distractions behind. If you truly immerse yourself in them, each of these landscapes have a way of rejuvenating a person's mind, bringing a new perspective and increasing creativity.

2) EXPLORE A NEW TOPIC

While everyone can benefit from continuing to learn about new subjects, artists and crafters can especially benefit from studying new things. If you’ve hit a block in your creative process, try finding a new topic to focus on. You could do it by simply reading a new book or self-teaching through online sources.

When you open up your mind to new subjects, you often find that they relate to the things you already knew. Many times when you start comparing your new knowledge with things you already knew, you will find that it gets the creative juices flowing again and your mental block disappears.

3) LISTEN TO MUSIC

Music is an exceptionally powerful tool. Everyone has songs that bring back memories, makes them sad, motivates them, and even inspires them. Next time you find yourself stuck on a project or unable to make progress, consider incorporating music into your creative process.

Remember, it doesn’t matter what genre of music you listen to. All that matters is that it helps motivate or inspire you. Sometimes you can just turn on some tunes while you work to get motivated, but other times it’s helpful to sit down, meditate, and just change what you are doing for a moment.

4) TAKE A BREAK

Many times when you think of taking a break, you think of removing yourself from a situation that is causing you too much stress. However, taking a break can also be a useful creative tool. This is especially true if you’ve been bogged down with a project for quite a while.

All you really need to do is get up and leave what you’re working on for 20 to 30 minutes. You could take a walk, go to lunch, or go get coffee; anything that takes your mind off of your project. When you return to your project, you’ll most likely find that working out a solution isn’t so difficult anymore.

5) CHANGE YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT

Occasionally, breaking through a creative block takes drastic measures. You might even need to change the location where you are working or maybe the layout of your work space. Changing your environment could be as simple as getting rid of clutter or as complex as rearranging your entire space to allow for things like more natural light, open space, or less stress.

If your art or craft allows for it, see if there are other places that you can take your work for a day or two. One way you could do this is through networking with friends who have similar work supplies and tools. See if you can use their work space or maybe collaborate with them on a project.

Finally, getting through a creative block often comes with experience. If you’re an artist or crafter who has found something that helps you persevere through a creative block, share your tips in the comments with those who might struggle to break free.

Call for Artists: Chesterton Art Fair - Extended Call!

2021-07-09T10:00:00.000Z

August 7 & 8
Chesterton, Indiana
Dogwood Park
Saturday 10am-5pm & Sunday 10am-4pm
100 Artists
Deadline: July 31

Application fee: $30 Booth fee: $240 - $515

Beautiful Dogwood Park is a huge hit with artists and patrons alike. Only one mile from 80/94 and 45 minutes from Chicago. Many Chicagoans make the fair part of their weekend as it is so easy to get to, and the perfect halfway stop between Chicago and southwest Michigan's wine country. We are also also within a few miles of the Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana Dunes National Park.

The art fair grounds are spacious and flat with plenty of parking, accessible for all. Artists may load and unload at their booth. Artists traveling in RV's have free close parking near the premises.

We LOVE our artists! We are happy to provide booth sitting, and artists may drive into park and unload right next to booth space. Exclusive artist parking within walking distance to park.

Testimonials

"Very well organized. Not too big. And everyone is very friendly. It's a great art fair!" B.R.
"So much amazing art work to see. We enjoyed ourselves immensely. The artists are fun to talk to also. Very impressive!" Z.R.
"An excellent Art Fair to attend. Our first year there and we'll be back." R.K.
"It has become a yearly tradition!" K.A.

Apply: https://www.chestertonart.org/art-fair-artist-application

More information: https://www.chestertonart.org/chesterton-art-fair

Contact: Wendy Marciniak, gallery@chestertonart.org

Know that we will be taking every precaution to make ALL feel safe and protected during our fair due to COVID-19. We know you have been creating beautiful art during the last year and we can't wait to see it.

We plan to make this year's fair the BEST ONE YET!

Second blog about Des Moines Art Festival

2021-07-05T14:52:33.000Z

Des Moines ArtsFestival—the nuts and bolts

This info will be helpful when considering applying for the show.

A few salient facts.

This is a biggie show. Well respected,hard to get in, but a real money-maker.

Many artists do well over $10K.

This year there were 152 artist spaces. Roughly, 1200 people juried for it back in 2019. The 2020 was cancelled,COVID, and we were rolled over to this year.

It is a three day show (Friday-Sunday) with long hours— Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm. Sunday 11-5pm.

Setup is on Thursday, they give you four hours before you have to move a van.

They give you electric. You need it, especially after 8pm. Bring fans for you and your patrons.

Booths are on paved city streets in downtown. You have sculpture park behind booths on one side and tall business buildings on the other.

It can be nasty windy, take heed. No staking allowed only weights.

Some booths are able to tie off parking meters.

They had five foot spacing between booths,who knows, next year.

Corner booths have wide open space between the next booth.

At teardown,booths must be on the ground before they issue a pass.

Exception. Corner booths are allowed to drive and park headin. So you

do not have to have all on the ground.

There is generous storage behind all booths.

The show does not do fine art categories.

Generous prize money with an auto invite.

Great artist breakfest on Sunday morn.

They constantly bring around water and snacks.

Good variety of food trucks. I hit the Jamaican truck both days.

Crowd is pretty civil, no assholes.

They love art.

They buy pretty much conservatively. It is the Midwest.

The show director, Steven King, is one of the best in the country.

If you have an issue. You can call him.

That pretty well sums up the show.

I am going to Appleton,Wisconsin for a show at the end of the month.

Wish I had info like this to prepare for the show.

But people seem to be pretty close mouthed about giving out show info.

Later,Gators.

All About Insurance for Your Small Art Business

2021-07-02T19:18:33.000Z

What kind of insurance do you need as an artist or craftsman? How do you get coverage to sell at events? Learn all about it in this video!

DesMoines ArtsFestival—Another Killer “Winner,Winner, Chicken Dinner

2021-07-01T14:30:00.000Z

This was my first summer show.

I am writing two blogs about it.

This one will be about my insights and observations.

My second will be about the nuts and bolts of the show.

covering layouts,booths,storage,etc.

This will be valuable info for those of you considering doing the show.

So, on with the show.

This was held on the last weekend of June.

Because of COVID it was cancelled in 2020. Accepted artists were auto in for 2021. There was no jury for this year.

This was my fourth time doing it. They have always been killer shows for me, and this year was the best.

By killer I mean in excess of $8K.

And this happened despite being rained on six times in five hours on Saturday.

This is a major show for artists in the Midwest. I put it right up there with Saint Louis and Kansas City Plaza or Old Town.

It is hard to get into. You are up against great talent in every media and it is a small show—under 200 artists.

Steven King is the director and he is very savvy and fair with artists. He listens. And you can actually call the man when you have an issue.

Good luck doing that with most other show directors at the biggy shows.

At first he was not sure it could happen in June because of COVID.

But he pulled it off.

He has a monster volunteer force who helps in every way.

It is a three day show with a Thursday setup. Long hours, too long.

Friday and Saturday the show closes at 10pm, opens at 11am.

This sucks for two reasons.

One, most sales stop after 8pm. Then we just twiddle our thumbs while the crowds drink beer and socializes.

Second. All the restaurants close their kitchens at 10. So artists have no food options except to bring your own or eat show food. Jamaican chicken curry rice gets old after two days in a row.

Honestly, Steven, that is my only criticism of this show. Otherwise it rolls on perfectly.

Pretty much every artist makes mucho dinero.

This year there was no option to stay as a guest in a patron’s home because of Covid.

I booked a hotel five blocks from the show and got in on Wednesday nite.

I was the first in line for checkin on Thursday morn.

I was setup by noon and retired to the hotel where I took a three hour nap. I was exhausted. Do not get old and do shows,they will kill you.

Since this was going to be the only nite I could eat dinner out (except after teardown Sunday) I Googled restaurants and found a great fresh seafood restaurant right by my hotel called Splash.

It has been there 22 years. It is owned by a DesMoines resident who lives in Key West part of the year. He has fresh seafood flown in from Hawaii and Key West daily. This includes shrimp and oysters.

Everything was delish. It was not super expensive but well worth it.

Friday: First day of show

Beautiful day got muggier in the afternoon.

People were out in force. Lots of “Good Shoes” people wearing great outfits.

I sold a $400 framed photograph a half hour before show opening.

It went like that the rest of the day. Sold a mix of metal photos in the $500 range along with four $175 framed photos. Sold lots out of the browse bin.

It is a savvy buying crowd. They respect new, different work— in all media.

All day I saw large framed pieces go by me along with pricey sculptures and glass.

The Des Moines crowd is very respectful of the artists. And they love it when I tell them what a unique show it is.

Twice that day I had people buy a piece for $40 then give me $50 and tell me to keep the change. That does not often happen.

They came around with water and snacks all day. And, they had ample booth sitters.

A lot of artists told me it was their first show Post-Covid.

There were lots of smiling faces as they watched Art go trucking out of their booths.

Spacing at the show was ample. All booths had five foot between each other.

I had a corner that was wide enough for two vans to go head in.

Everyone had ample storage space behind.

The only negative about the booths was the fact we were setup on a crowned paved road. So when it rained we had a three inch river flowing thru. You had to keep stuff off the ground near the curb.

Luckily, we had no problems with that. Saturday was another story.

By 8pm the crowd dwindled and it was very few sales happening.

People were happy to be out, without masks, and vibing with their friends while drinking.

BTW, I am still talking about Friday.

At 10pm, I was long gone. My favorite motto in the art show biz is “Take the money and run.”

I had a modest double Manhatten at the hotel, Knob Creek 100 proof bourbon stirred, not shaken.

I slept like a rock.

Saturday—Very,very wet day, still made money.

We all knew the forecast was for heavy rain.

We just did not expect to get six bands in five hours.

You know the routine. Over the boxes behind.

Drop the side tarps and sometimes the front too.

Set your back awning at an angle to avoid excess water buildup.

Put on your rubber duckies while the river runs thru.

Then roll all the tarps back up.

Dry off the rain on the art.

Shed the rain gear because it gets humid real fast.

Take a brief breath, make a few sales, then Wham, repeat the whole routine five more times.

Ah yes, don’t we artists live the glamorous life.

By six the rain was finally past, but so were sales.

Lots of young people walking, no art in hands, just drinks.

I made mostly Lowend sales out of browsebins in the $30-60 range.

My neighbor, a respected glass artist, made some Lowend sales.

Saturday ended up being the poorest day for sales.

But we had nice weather ahead for Sunday.

Sunday, Sunday—What a fun day

I finally awoke that morn to glorious bright blue sky with almost chilling breezes. No predicted rain.

The show put on a delicious breakfest along with awards. Made everybody forget about Saturday.

I, and others, were looking for a big finish.

Here are some demographics to consider about Des Moines.

It is the Capitol city of Iowa.

It is a college town, lots of young people.

It is a strong city for corporations in the medical,insurance and food industries.

People tend to be pretty conservative in art tastes, yet I saw a lot of new, inventive art go by my booth.

They dress smartly and are very polite.

Most do not try to lowball you.

Thank God, they do not constantly use their cellphones to take pictures of your work without first asking permission.

They love their show and come out in numbers.

So Sunday sales started out just like Friday.

Sold a big piece right at the getgo and continued that way the whole day.

Weather stayed perfect and I ended up with my biggest total sales that day.

Teardown was easy-pezie, was out in 90 minutes.

The return home on Monday was a nightmare, but that is a tale for another day.

So that is my story. I will write another blog about the nuts and bolts of the show.

Stay tuned.

Later, Gators.

Aloha, Nels (did my very first show in Hawaii by a waterfall in 1974, never have lost the Aloha Spirit).