POORER BUT RICHER

Christine Adele Moore

Every time I pack and travel to an art show there is a sense of excitement…an anticipation for what the weekend may bring.  One might even call it a gambler’s high with the unknown of what artwork may return with the artist and which find new homes.  

Some shows leave an artist feeling on top of the world with plans to finally buy that dream home they’ve favorited on Zillow.  Other’s leave one wondering if they’ve made the right choices and in life and make one suddenly notice “Now Hiring” signs at Target.  

The Art and Artisan Fair at the Southampton History Museum is an example of the latter.  It was a first year show, so untested.  The area’s extreme wealth lured many excellent artists to the venue and I was optimistic about all of our prospects for the weekend. 

Unfortunately, after set up, a walk around the town showed no advertising for the show which was off Main Street.  There was rumored to have been social media advertising but, if there was any, it was very ineffective.  The only patrons that attended seemed to be accidental and all weekend there were far more artists (there were about 50 participants) on site than potential customers.

Social media
post on facebook
by the venue

“It was very ineffective.”

Many artists were angry and felt cheated by the show, as we all go to some expense to travel and participate in these events.  I, myself, invested into the four digits to be there, traveling from Florida (gas prices now!) and paying for expensive Southampton lodging. But this is the gamble we road warriors take on and I don’t feel bitter.  

One art festival constant I can always count on is enjoying talking to fellow artists of the shows. This particular event afforded much time to do that and I got to know several whose work I’ve admired at other events in the past.  The camaraderie of the artists is one my favorite aspects of this lifestyle.  Each artist is so independent and unique and I enjoy meeting every single one.

So, my take away from last weekend may have left me poorer of dollars but made me richer of experience and friendships….can’t buy that with any amount of money.  No regrets. Follow the summer season of art shows listed on the Calendar.

Custom Marketing

Artists customize marketing graphics for each show to promote participation and increase booth traffic. It’s best practice to design a square for Instagram, flyer for Facebook, and a vertical for the stories.