(Because sharing your artwork should not cost more than creating it.)
If you are an emerging artist like me, you know that putting your artwork out there into the world can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. Especially so if money is tight or you are just starting to build that artistic confidence. That is why I want to talk about something that has made a big difference in my personal art journey lately: Finding low-risk, affordable ways to showcase your artwork.
A picture of my most recent booth at True Love Studios.
One of the biggest things I have learned is that low booth fees = low pressure. When you are not investing hundreds of dollars just to participate in an event to get your art pieces in front of an audience, it becomes a much more approachable, positive, and rewarding experience. It gives you the space to experiment, learn, and grow without feeling like you are at risk of wasting your entire budget for the month.
But not all opportunities are created equal. So, how do you find the good ones? Personally, I like to keep an eye out on Instagram, Facebook groups, word of mouth, building friendships and relationships with other fellow artists, and open call websites. Local studios and art collectives will often post calls for vendors or gallery shows, and when booth fees are low and the organizers are transparent and engaged, that is a great sign for a great show. I always recommend doing a little bit of housekeeping: check out past events, look at who’s organizing, and absolutely reach out if you have a questions prior to the event.
Artist of the Month in February of this year at the Pearl Fincher Fine Arts Museum.
Don’t forget to check out local museums for opportunities available like this one!
Most recently, I had the chance to show my work at the All Perspectives Art Show host by True Love Studios in Houston. It was such a meaningful and positive experience. I met so many creative people in my community, got to share and sell a couple of originals, prints, and stickers, and just had some genuinely renewing conversations with other artists. There is something about hearing how others keep going, create through hard times, and stay inspired to do so. It reminds me of why I would like to keep painting and exploring other art mediums. It gave me energy and determination to keep producing and finding ways to sustainably share my own work.
All Perspectives Art Show - True Love Studios, Houston.
And while in-person shows are powerful, I also want to shout out online opportunities. I was recently featured in the multimedia magazine Venom&Verse, and you can find the feature on Instagram @Venom&Verse and their Substack at the same handle. Seeing my art recognized and shared in that space reminded me that encouragement and connection can come from all kinds of places. I keep in mind it does not have to be a physical location.
One of the paintings of mine written about from Venom&Verse’s feature.
Whether it is a pop-up booth or an online spotlight, these opportunities help build momentum. Just make sure you are researching events and platforms first. It is important to protect your time, energy, and artwork. But when you find the right fit, it can be an incredibly rewarding and encouraging experience.
Keep your eyes open, prices fair (For the artist and consumer.), your time and energy protected, and that paintbrush (Or whatever strikes your fancy.) moving.
With love and art,
Autumn
