I am planning for my first couple of art shows coming up this fall and I am wondering how to decide which print to show case for sale. Specifically, I am doing a show in Tempe, Arizona. So should I feature mostly prints from Arizona, Utah, and California or should I also include images from states like Washington, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Wyoming? Also, how many images should I include in a 10 x 10 booth? Your experiences and advice is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Michael
Posted by Jim Bullard on August 6, 2010 at 8:44 AM
It is my experience that most buyers want photos of places they are familiar with. Feature your Arizona images. Have the other images but the ones "up front" should be the "local" ones.
Posted by Eva McDermott on August 6, 2010 at 9:29 AM
I am current doing a show at the Boothbay Harbor Library in Maine and have chosen mostly images from the Boothbay region. The librarian said local work is best received.
Posted by Jim Sabiston on August 6, 2010 at 9:41 AM
Michael,
I'm actually preparing for my 5th show of the season, which is tomorrow, so the question is timely.
My experience indicates that, while each show location is a bit different, the general trend is approximately half of my image sales are of local, recognizeable subjects. My images are more about 'atmosphere' than a specific place (with some notable exceptions) and tend to be a bit more universal than some in this respect. Just the same, I've found that the most effective set up is to have large framed images right out near the entrance of my booth where passerbys can see then from either direction. These images are specifically chosen to be eye catchers - they have to POP. The idea is to get the attention of people who have likely already seen a lot of other work before they get to you. A combination of a local subject that pops is ideal. Once they are pulled into the booth they can see the more subtle work and often buy it, but you have to get their attention first!
The cardinal makes a very strong graphic statement and is a real attention getter (and strong seller). The lighthouse is a very well known local landmark and this is a very unique photograph of it, given that great sky. The combination has worked well for me.
As to how many images to show - put up as many as you can without crowding. Show as much variety as you can. I'm actually going to change my show display next year to reflect a) the reality of what sells (matted prints over framed prints) and b)to expand the display area. I will continue to show framed images, but this will be mounted on a top row only, on three sides of the booth (about 12 pieces). The large space below will be filled with matted photos only. The idea is to minimize travel logistics (and potential frame damage) while expanding actual display space. This will get more images out in the open without potential buyers having to sort through the bins of matted photos, or will encourage more to take the time to sort!
I hope this helps. It is an ongoing, learning experience and part of the fun.
My experience is that people buy strong photographs without respect for location. Perhaps this is partly due to the festivals I have exhibited in and my style of work (the locations of my photographs are not recognizable).
The festivals I have exhibited in have had a dozen or so photographers, many if not most of them peddling the typical landscape/nature photography. You could probably swap pieces amongst these photographers without noticing a style change. If you want to succeed and stand out, create distinct work and an attractive and inviting 'gallery' on site and the people will enter. It doesn't matter if the images were made locally, on the other side of the world, or even if they have recognizable subjects: the work just needs to be better and higher quality than all the other photography found at the festival.
Michael, I started doing shows this year and have done really well doing as Mr. Gordon has suggested. I show alot of non-regional images (framed and matted), and put 2 to 4 large framed attention gitters out front. Best of luck in your shows.
Bob
There is NO standard. You are selling YOUR ART, so create it, merchandise it, and speak about it however you think best represents it. Competition is strong; your work must be excellent and different to be noticed. "Nice" won't cut it.
Lucy, I had read that the large framed work was good for attracting attention and the seller was matted prints, so I probably have 150 matted prints VS 30 Framed hanging. BUT I seem to have sold more framed than matted so far. Every show and location seem to be different so far. I am still learning which shows to go for and which are just lookers. Michael Gordon is correct, be the best there. Good luck on your endeavors.
Bob
Posted by Jeff Colburn on August 11, 2010 at 1:18 AM
Check out these links
http://bermangraphics.com/artshows/artshowphotography.htm
http://networkedblogs.com/6zLMP
I have typically sold pictures of areas known by the buyer. Generally something nearby or in their state. The frame is a huge selling point. Find a great looking frame that matches well and you got a sale. I have not done a show in 2 years due to the slow economy but generally I made good enough money to bring me back. Good luck
Posted by Edward Mendes on September 6, 2010 at 7:38 PM
I have to agree with some of the statements that have already been made in terms of having strong images, regardless of location. With that being said however, if you have very strong images of the local area I certainly make sure at least a couple of them are showcased in the both display.
Discussion
11 repliesThanks,
Michael
I'm actually preparing for my 5th show of the season, which is tomorrow, so the question is timely.
My experience indicates that, while each show location is a bit different, the general trend is approximately half of my image sales are of local, recognizeable subjects. My images are more about 'atmosphere' than a specific place (with some notable exceptions) and tend to be a bit more universal than some in this respect. Just the same, I've found that the most effective set up is to have large framed images right out near the entrance of my booth where passerbys can see then from either direction. These images are specifically chosen to be eye catchers - they have to POP. The idea is to get the attention of people who have likely already seen a lot of other work before they get to you. A combination of a local subject that pops is ideal. Once they are pulled into the booth they can see the more subtle work and often buy it, but you have to get their attention first!
My two regular choices are these:
Cardinal in Snowy Tree
After the Storm
The cardinal makes a very strong graphic statement and is a real attention getter (and strong seller). The lighthouse is a very well known local landmark and this is a very unique photograph of it, given that great sky. The combination has worked well for me.
As to how many images to show - put up as many as you can without crowding. Show as much variety as you can. I'm actually going to change my show display next year to reflect a) the reality of what sells (matted prints over framed prints) and b)to expand the display area. I will continue to show framed images, but this will be mounted on a top row only, on three sides of the booth (about 12 pieces). The large space below will be filled with matted photos only. The idea is to minimize travel logistics (and potential frame damage) while expanding actual display space. This will get more images out in the open without potential buyers having to sort through the bins of matted photos, or will encourage more to take the time to sort!
I hope this helps. It is an ongoing, learning experience and part of the fun.
Good luck out there!
The festivals I have exhibited in have had a dozen or so photographers, many if not most of them peddling the typical landscape/nature photography. You could probably swap pieces amongst these photographers without noticing a style change. If you want to succeed and stand out, create distinct work and an attractive and inviting 'gallery' on site and the people will enter. It doesn't matter if the images were made locally, on the other side of the world, or even if they have recognizable subjects: the work just needs to be better and higher quality than all the other photography found at the festival.
Distinct photography stands out!
Bob
Bob
http://bermangraphics.com/artshows/artshowphotography.htm
http://networkedblogs.com/6zLMP
Have Fun,
Jeff