Too many art pieces jumbled together on a table devalues the artwork and diverts attention from the quality of workmanship.
Renting space at an art walk or craft fair is a great way for artists to connect with potential buyers. However, showing up with a vanload of artwork doesn't guarantee you'll make a sale from the stark, impersonal tents most venues supply. Inspiring your customer base to invest in your pieces requires a creative approach to designing a floor plan for your art booth that will invite potential buyers to linger long enough to make a purchase.
Instructions
1. Replace the standard location-holder nameplate most events provide for vendors with a larger, personalized sign that both represents your vision as an artist and prominently displays your name to the public.
2. Place your largest, best or most impressive representational art piece prominently just outside the entrance to your booth as a calling card to entice potential buyers.
3. Set up your art supplies and work in progress on an easel across from the representational art piece. The work in progress should be in the same medium (such as watercolor, pastels, acrylic) as the artwork you intend to sell at the event. This will provide you with a place to demonstrate techniques to interested buyers as well as the opportunity to attract a crowd to watch you work whenever business is slow.
4. Inside the tented booth space, place the colorful rug on the ground and suspend the 3-5 pieces of draping or cloth in strategic places along the interior tent walls. These touches create a personalized, homey experience that will invite patrons to linger.
5. Place the folding table and chairs in the back of the tent, away from the casual passersby. One of the pieces of draping can be used as a table covering to give the table a more professional look.
6. Install two or three displays along the perimeter of the booth to allow for the maximum amount of space in the center for your potential buyers to step back and admire your selection of artwork.
7. Display business cards, art sample postcards, and fliers for your next art shows or services (such as art lessons, mural painting, etc.) on the folding table. Center your e-mail sign-up sheet at the back of the table and direct potential customers there. This will require them to pass by the displays of your work inside the tent.
