Monday, November 22, 2010

Hi Everyone!

Okay  I'll  stop  complaining  now--no  more  shows  this  year.    I'm  actually  looking  forward  to  cleaning  my  house,  and  just  doing  what  I  feel  like  doing.   And  getting  ready  for  the  holidays--piece  of  cake! 

So  about  my  weekend--let  me  take  you  into  my  little  shop- (warning--not  very  clear  photos  ahead--do not adjust your set)
 
Here's  the  Christmas  department--


Featuring  angels  this  week--


(All  of  my  angel  pieces,  I'm  happy  to  say  have  found  new  homes!)

And  this  is  the  home  decor  section--




And  the  gift  department  offering  a  different  array   of  boxes--



And  the  newest  addition  to  my  shop--a  very  small  jewelry  section--




Okay,  about  the  show.  I've  been  doing  this  show  for years,  and  when  I  first  participated,  it  was managed  by  a  wonderful  promoter  who  brought  in  quality  crafters  and  artists,  and she  kept  this  standard  of  quality  up  the  entire  time  she  ran  it.  Well,  when  she  decided  not  to  do  this  show  anymore,  it  was  taken  over  by  another  promoter (maybe  about  4  years  ago)  who  is  basically  a  businessman-- loosing  sight  for  the  real  reason  to  have  this  type  of  venue--to  promote  the  arts.  These events  to  me  are  special, in  that  a group  of  crafters/artists  come  together  and  offer  their  hand-crafted  art  to  the  public.   Well  unfortunately,  this  show  has  become  a  place  for  retailers  (there  are  still  some  very  good  crafters  and  artists  that  participate,  but  they  are  dwindling).   But  when  you  see  a  booth  that's  10  by  40  feet (that's  4  spaces),  well you know  that  these  "crafters"  are  just  purchasing  they're  wares  and  selling  them--known  as  buy/sell.   Oh  yeah,  anyone  interested  in  gutter  or  window  replacements?--well  you  can  find  them  here.   How  about  Direct  TV?--I  think  they  had  a  show  special  going  on  too!!    And  while  you  were  here,  you  could  also  get  a  subscription  to  the  local  newspaper! 

Well   I'm  happy  to  say  that   the  attendance  was  down (remember  people  have  to  pay  to  get  in).  This  is  the  best  way  to  tell  these  promoters  to  bring  back  the  true  craft/art  show--stop  going  to  these  types of  shows.   Sorry  about  me  ranting,  but  I  just  get  so  mad  about  this!!   So  I'll  let  you  figure  out  if  I'll  be  returning  to  this  "craft"  show  ; )

On  to  a  more  happy  topic.  At  the  end  of  this  week  is  my  first  year  blog  anniversary,  and  you  know  what  that  means--theres'  going  to  be  a  giveaway  so  don't  go  far!!

48 comments:

Peggy said...

Oh Diane I hear you ! I am mad at those promoters who only want to make money. We have them here too, but at least people don't pay any fee to attend the show.They are less disapointed to find retailers. Your booth was fantastic !I wish I could live near you to see all your artwork in person.

Theresa Plas said...

Good Morning D! I was thinking of you this weekend and looking forward to your show post. Love, love the way you display all your pieces...EVERYTHING looks so beautiful! GREAT JoB!
Now time to start your vacation for a bit;)

Micki Wilde said...

Oh Diane that is also one of the reasons I gave up on the fairs here in the uk it's awful when you have to compete with someone who has 'bought in' all of their stock at cheapo prices, how can you compete with that?!! *sigh* when will craft fair hosts realize that craft fairs are for crafters!!

Hugs for you and your gorgeous handcrafted work!!

Micki x

Healing Woman said...

The buy/sell has been going on for a number of years now at even the quality shows. The promoters like the "artist/salesman" and look the other way. The rest of the quality artists, like yourself, are angered but since the show is a good one, we just ignore it too. You have the right idea though. Those kinds of shows drop in attendance and the promoter is out. But then, there is no show anymore and we, as artists must find new diggings.

I was lucky to be with the Sugarloaf Shows for many long years and must say that they juried in "mostly" all crafters who made their own. I also showed with Clyde Gilmore at N.C. Craftsmen and he also chose only "real" artists. Those two promoters are still in business and going fairly strong, or as strong as a down market can expect.

I just knew those angels would sell!!!! Isn't it wonderful to get the shows over with and down to simple Xmas happenings?

Hugs,
Cheryl

Buffy said...

Oh don't even get me started about the buy and sell. One of the biggest craft shows around here that I used to love to go to is now mostly buy and sell. Which doesnt help my store either. I just don't go anymore. Well I'm glad you sold your angels. Your booth looks great,a nice selection.

WrightStuff said...

Well, how nice to browse your charming store... I am attending a show on Weds night at my son's school. Let's see if I sell anything.

Anonymous said...

Beautiful dear Diane!!!
Great Job!

Kisses and hugs.

Marlene said...

Happy all your angels found homes. I think your boxes are fabulous. I agree that a true craft fair should be only the artist and crafters that actually made their wares and not someone selling "mass produced" crafts.

Janet Ghio said...

There's a show like that here-used to have all artists-it was wonderful; now it's been taken over by retailers-very few artists anymore-I stopped going a couple of years ago. Your booth looks great--you have worked really hard this fall!! How nice now to just make what you want to for awhile!

Heather said...

Wow, you have noooo idea how much I relate to what you said regarding the show. I just finished a 3 day show that was basically brought to you by China. My revenue was was so disapointing, considering the volume of people who walked by, glazed eyed, with bags full of crap they could have bought at Michaels but were too dazzled by mammoth booths to turn down.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on crafts shows, especially this year. I know a lot of my friends just simply didnt do them this year. I myself am wondering if I should take a different approach to getting my art out there....

joanna said...

Hi Diane! your booth looks wonderful! and so does your work! I participated in a small show last year, while visiting NY. The woman next to me was a buy and sell person,(she hardly made any sales, while I sold all my scarves! I think most buyers can tell the difference! I have to say I do miss doing craft shows..none here in Greece. xoxo

Cathy Bueti said...

Diane your work is beautiful and I am so happy that your angels found homes! That is disappointing to hear about the craft show. I can understand your frustration about it!

Your booth looked great! I wish I could have been there to see it in person and meet you! :)

me said...

Sounds like the right thing, not to return- I hope many or all of your fellow artists follow your lead to send the message to the organizer(s) to lose the business people...
Happy that you made some sales though, I am sure some people who actually came for the handcrafted wares went home very happy!
Enjoy being at home and getting ready for the holidays!

Terri Kahrs said...

Diane, your booth looked amazing! And I can't believe that you'll be celebrating your first year's blogaversary this week!!!! Happy, Happy Anniversary to you!!! Hugs, Terri xoxo

Carrie Martinez said...

You have every right to rant! I have yet to do the craft fair scene, but it seems that that is the trend toward business. Still, your booth was so inviting and your crafts were so beautiful! I love the way you designed your booth with the sections. Just that alone inspires me to want to take on big business and cheap products and revive the handmade art scene! Oh, and only one year and 500 followers--you are my hero!!

Art by Darla Kay said...

Your artwork is so beautiful Diane and does NOT belong amongst the other buy/sell crap!
On my first visit to Phoenix, someone told me I had to hit the big flea market. I was excited beforehand and disappointed after. It was filled with this sort of thing and every once in awhile I'd stumble onto someone who actually handcrafted what they were selling. NOT what I had hoped.

Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving, I'm thankful I follow your blog :)

Cori Lynn Berg said...

I loved your setup! It really was beautiful.. type of space i would definitely spend time wandering through. And i agree about the sellers.. so sad, isnt it? A ♥ for you...

Rebeca Trevino said...

that is disappointing to hear. i love craft shows that are truly hand made, unique and interesting pieces.

i hope the promoter is savvy enough to figure out that s/he is loosing not just fine crafters, but from the sounds of it the 'paying public' appears to be dwindling too.

i love your gift boxes.they are colorful and fun!

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

We have trade shows here each year, and people pay $7.50 to get in to see gutters, window replacements, and hot tubs, and well you get the picture. These shows attract the occasional "crafter," but no artisans. I understand your frustration.

Having said that, I think you had a lovely booth. Everything was arranged so well, with the "seasonal" items out where they would draw people in. I'm also delighted to read that all your lovely angels sold. That was a job well done, and at least you were aware of your target market. Now for the much needed down time!

Theresa said...

Every right to rant Diane! Handcrafted work is special & not everyone gets it! I hope you have a happy blog anniversary!& a wonderful Thanksgiving~ Theresa

Yasmin said...

Their pieces are wonderful.. I love their jewels and paintings.
I want to you always a lot of success.
hugs,
yasmin mundaca

Jenny said...

Wow! Your "little shop" is simply STUNNING! I could get lost there for days and still not be able to decide which item I would want to buy (because I would want to take them ALL home!) Happy house cleaning :)

kluless said...

I SO agree with you! I doesn't take long for folks to figure out they should not have to pay to see the same things they can see at the mall for free. The prestige of a solid juried show goes right out the window. Wouldn't blame you a bit if you crossed that one off the list.
Now get some well-deserved relaxation and enjoy your holidays!

Dorthe said...

Dear Diane- the same thing happens here,----far too many non crafters, attents shows, and faiers,and when compalyning, one is told, they have to be there, because of the costs,that have to be payed....
Well, one more of those equal, one less crafter....
Congratulations on selling your wonderfull angel paintings,- I too love your boxes, and think you made a wonderfull display,there.

Hugs, and happy enjoying your christmas month...
I still have to do shows, and be open every day in my shop, here..... not much time for privat christmas making.
Hugs, Dorthe

Unknown said...

I really love your display! Good shows can be so hard to find...kinda hit/miss! Here's to you though for getting yourself out there!!

Heather Foust said...

Oh that is terrible! Your art was beautiful as usual and your set up looked great. If that helps any. That is a shame because this show is going to loose people like you.

Unknown said...

Diane..your work is beautiful nonetheless!!

sharon said...

Looks beautiful Diane! I know the frustration of these shows, that why I didn't do any this year. I keep my eye out for better things, but it is hard to escape this. I think people buying our wares are knowledgeable enough to know the difference. We have to be true to ourselves and keep making our art!

Jen @Sadie Inspired said...

Sometimes you just have to rant...it is SO frustrating. Your booth looked great & how exciting that your one year anniversary is coming!!

Janet said...

I know just what you mean about the shows. We have a fall festival in our town. It used to be good with lots of handmade crafts but the past few years it's been more and more of the buy/sell stuff. I just quit going! I want the real deal not something made in China!

Debby said...

WOW!!!! Your booth looks amazing, and of course i love everything. That is so sad that someone new always comes in and ruins things, happens all the time.
Debby

Unknown said...

So happy your angels found new homes, they're so beautiful! Too bad about the shift to retailers, that stinks! I'm so excited for your giveaway! I'm gonna be having one soon on my blog too, my first!
Sending you Thanksgiving hugs!
♥Jenny

Joyce's Journey said...

I am so impressed with your shop. I would love to visit you and buy some of your beautiful creations. Those angels are absolutely beautiful and I can certainly understand how they found happy homes. I don't blame you for your feelings about how things have changed and your distaste. I'm so sorry that happened. You know what they say . . . when one door closes....another one opens. Something better is right around the corner for you. Keep us posted!!

Giggles said...

As a customer I find it frustrating when I pay to get into a craft fair supporting the arts to find it has be commercialized!!!Too bad. Your set up is very pretty! Especially love the boxes!! You'll make the right choices for yourself!For now enjoy the season!

Hugs Giggles

Serena Lewis said...

I used to love browsing flea markets years ago but not anymore. It's rare to find a flea market where the vendors actually create or grow what they sell....so disappointing! I hate flea markets where the vendors are basically just retailers - buy and sell.

On a brighter note, your stall looked FABULOUS!

WrightStuff said...

Hey Diane - gave you a shout out on my blog today - I was rather inspired by your hippy ladies when creating last night!

Maggie said...

Oh, you are so talented and creative!

You are so right about the shows ~ why do they let these companies participate? Money, I guess. So boycotting should work. But in the meantime, the artists suffer also. What a situation.

Marguerite (Tina) Smith Hart said...

Oh Diane I am right there with you. In my little town there was only one decent show and it turned into what you are describing so this year I didn't go! I have heard though that many of the shows in Vermont ( a hoot and a holler from me) are still run very strictly and only handcrafters are accepted. My only problem is that they are very expensive to get a booth in.
By the way your creations are just too beautiful for words, wow, I love the colors and composition!

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Your angels are beautiful! And I love the jewelry you are making! I would want to keep everything! lol I can't wait to see what you do next! Hope it's more angels! Hugs! ♥

Anonymous said...

You are so professional and set things up so perfectly! I love looking at your work as though I'm shopping at a show. Those shows are a tremendous amount of work. The last one I did I remember dragging my tent to to car in the pouring rain, knowing that it was my last time.

Anna Rosa Designs said...

Hi Diane,
I can see why these pieces all found new homes, just gorgeous.

Oh dear, I understand your frustration at the new business owners taking over and the way the things are run.
Wishing you luck,
Hugs,
Anna

Janny said...

Great to see all your work like this, it's a hell of a job to organise this. Congrats with your blog anniversary,

wandamarie.blogspot.com said...

i am not one bit surprised that you sold out of your angels...they are EXQUISITE!
and i am really sorry to hear about the true craft deal.

katrina said...

Hi Diane, a pity about the show...but what lovely things you have...honestly really made with your soul and such a pleasure to look at. You're doing great Diane and will find the right shows or places to exhibit your art work. I look forward to the day I have enough paintings to do something with them...but now with a new baby ahead I sometimes wonder when all that will be...my two boys are big now 8 and 10 yrs old so going back to having a little one seems unreal at times, it's been so long. Anyway I'll just make the most and fit art in when I get a chance!!?? All the best Diane and thanks for your comments xx

Julie said...

Your displays are beautiful!!!! Your art looks so beautiful and I hope you have many sales in the future! Wouldn't it be nice to just be an artist and never have to do the promoting, bargaining, etc. Hmmmm...Maybe one day!....: )

juliaD said...

Good story Diane, Thanks for visiting me too. I agree its sad, but you do so well by the sound of it, so maybe you need to hang in there for all the crafters!!! I love your art its wonderful and people need to see it and be able to buy it......xx..julia

Anonymous said...

I was there last weekend and your booth was a breath of fresh air. I loved all your things. I , as a customer, was also very put off by all the non craft booths. The ambiance has been ruined .
I spend a lot of time in Erie during the summer, hope to see your work there. Do you have anything at the art store down by the pier at the bay?

Natalie said...

Hi Diane what a wonderful page you have sent to me! I so enjoyed your ranting as I do the same to all my friends who will listen. Being with you at the show made me feel so good to see the great items online also. You so inspired me talking with you. I just wish I had more time (I will come Jan.) to dothe things I really love. I think we talked about how all I want to do is work (or play as I see it) - thats all! Thanks for introducing me to all this I love it! I will keep in touch ! Natalie

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