Artist’s Holiday Season

I’m new to Prescott and the artist’s world here.  I’m new to craft shows, art shows and holiday shows.  Every venue is an adventure……

Prescott’s 5^th Annual Victorian Holiday Sale, my first event, had a good track record and I was excited.  Peter made 4 pegboard panels (2’ x 4’), hinged 2 panels together and I covered them with glittery black fabric.  The jewelry looks really good on them and I control the amount of space they require by angling them. 

My stack of cards and books, my hatpins, and my tall cone tree covered with my silk flowers were ready.  The tall cone tree is made of wire with lots of spaces where I can hang things. I was going for height instead of width in my display, a good thing because upon arrival to set up, there was very little room.  This was a new location for the sale and the room was smaller than expected.  Before the evening was over, everyone had a space …or two.  My tall cone tree was on a table across the room from me; I shared a 6’ table with another artist (who made wood boxes).  Payment for items was taken at the door so it was ok that my things were scattered. 



The Viking Chain I made during the event.



I stayed with the jewelry; demo’d the Viking chain technique and considered the event one for meeting and educating people about chain making.  A 10+- boy came by with his mother who said, “Watch her!  I want you to learn to make that!”  So he and I talked and I gave him some tips.  I’m hoping he gets excited about it.



The 2^nd event I attended was also an annual event that was held at an artist’s lovely home.  We had our first big snow the night before and I was sure it would be cancelled! 

My street on the morning of the event!

 But no, the event was across town and there was almost no snow there.  The garage and driveway were protected so we forged ahead in the cold.  Set everything up and hoped.  I got to meet a lot of artists but not a lot of buyers. 

The weather was cold and clear all day!

Both of these events, even with their great track records, were not money makers for me (or for most of the other vendors).  I think a combination of poor parking, poor weather, and poor economy made for less than hoped for revenue and attendance.

My table with the cone tree in the center.

Next on my agenda is a show at a country club where I will share a table with another artist.  There is a lunch the attendees pay for and the art show is before and after.  I’ll be interested to see how that type of venue does.

 Just when I thought I was done, a friend called and wants to do a Holiday Show in December, put our handmade decorations on a tree and sell our wares.  Apparently this is the time of year to participate in as many events as possible!  Today I’m looking into an indoor location!  And yesterday I figured out some handmade ornaments to make.  Very neat ones with aluminum foil – but that’s another post.  Stay tuned!