Things I learned at The Artists' Market; Part 1

If you're just starting out in the art world, or you're learning how to market your art, I urge you to exhibit at something like The Village Artist's Market in Marquette. Check out Mango Lane Gallery at their Facebook page for more information.  

  I showed at the Village Artists' Market this Saturday. I didn't sell anything, but I sure tried! There was a fair amount of traffic, and a lot of lookers. I used the opportunity to hand out business cards, advertise my art for sale on my website, and to tell people that I would be at The Outback Art Fair in July. For me, being at an artist's market was like being a living billboard. I let people know who I am and what I paint.

   I also learned some things I'll share this with you this week. I'll start with this: In order to get people to spend a lot of money, it seems that you have to have a big extravaganza... like an annual art festival. 

   I was thinking of auto sales. The dealers are open every day. But around here they have a huge, annual 'New Car Show' at the Superior Dome in Marquette, MI. It's a festive atmosphere, with lots of cars, and free goodies, and the best deals of the year! They sell tons of cars. People love an annual party!

   Then I was thinking of football. Green Bay Packer tickets start around $70.00 for cheap seats. You couldn't get into the Super Bowl for less than $1000.00! What's the difference? One is a football game, and the other is a huge annual festivity! 

  Then I thought of all the years I've had work in a gallery. I sold a piece here and there, but I sold more work at my receptions than the rest of my gallery time put together. That's why they have receptions!

   The excellent crafts people around me sold a lot of little things. But not too many people will stroll around on a random Saturday and drop $200 or more on art. Just like a person rarely goes to shopping and happens to buy a car. But if they know that a huge sale is coming up in the form of a festive event, they'll plan ahead on spending the kind of money I ask for. 

   Or maybe I'm just making up excuses for not having any sales!