Prepping for an Art Fair - a Behind the Scenes Look
As the festive season draws near, I’m gearing up to share my artwork at two local events—Burghfield on Ice on November 30 at Burghfield Village Hall and the Christmas Craft Market at St. Mary’s Church, Burghfield on December 7. Both days promise to be full of inspiration, friendly faces, and, hopefully, lots of art lovers!
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I prepare, curate, and set up for these events, with a few tips that might help my fellow artists get the most out of their own events. And if you’re local, I’d love to see you there! If not, feel free to explore my collection online.
Choosing the Right Artwork for Different Spaces
One of my first decisions is how to curate my collection for each event. Since Burghfield Village Hall offers an indoor space and St. Mary’s Church will be outdoors, the layout and feel of my stall will be different at each event.
This means I must choose pieces carefully—especially at the smaller indoor event where I only have a small table to display from. My goal is to create a balanced mix of popular pieces, new works, and varying sizes to appeal to a range of visitors. For fellow artists, this is a good time to ask: What will catch a passerby’s eye? Having a mix can help spark curiosity and encourage visitors to stay longer. And if you need to narrow down your selection, try bringing pieces that connect thematically or in colour for a cohesive look.
Pro Tip: Think vertically! Use small easels, grid walls, or tiered shelves to make the most of limited space. Visitors often notice eye-level work first, so display your most attention-grabbing pieces there. I typically use metal grid walls as these are ideal for hanging a variety of different sized paintings and their height can provide an advantage in getting my artwork seen.
Adding Variety with Smaller Items
Alongside my paintings, I bring my self-illustrated children’s books to events. These books serve as a great entry point for people who might be hesitant to buy a painting but still want to support my work. Having a few lower-priced items can help you cover pitch fees and give visitors a “takeaway” option.
Pro Tip: Small items like postcards, prints, or even bookmarks featuring your art are affordable and accessible. They help you connect with a wider audience and encourage people to engage with your work.
Preparing the Essentials and Being Prepared: From QR Codes to Snacks
Event preparation goes beyond artwork. These days I like to have QR codes on show that people can quietly scan as they go by. I’ve noticed many people don’t like collecting business cards and the QR code enables them to immediately access my website with ease. Going further, I have often been asked about the story and details behind a painting and I am now looking at including an informational QR code with each piece I display, which should also take them directly to my website.
For those like me who have dietary restrictions, bringing your own food is essential. As a coeliac, I’ve found that eating at these events can be a challenge, so I make sure to pack safe, filling options for the day. (*If you’re interested in coeliac-friendly tips, check out my blog, The Coeliac Scientist!)
Pro Tip: Have a small toolkit ready! Packing essentials like duct tape, extra hooks, scissors, and zip ties can save you from last-minute emergencies. A simple toolkit can be a lifesaver when setting up or making adjustments on the spot.
Creating a Welcoming Space with Strong Branding
Setting up my stall with a vinyl banner and a mix of colourful pieces helps make my brand visible and appealing. The goal is to create an inviting mini-gallery where people feel drawn in. I arrange my artwork thoughtfully, creating a flow so that visitors feel welcome to browse.
Pro Tip: If you’re setting up an outdoor stall, consider how weather might impact your setup. Protect art with clear covers or use weighted displays to keep everything in place. Even indoors, try to use lighting if possible; battery-powered LED lights (even warm-coloured fairy lights) can add warmth and make your art pop, especially during evening or festive events.
Making the Most of Every Interaction
Art fairs can be busy, but even quick chats with visitors can make a big difference. People often enjoy hearing the story behind a piece, so don’t hesitate to share what inspired you. Having a personal connection makes your art more memorable, and for those who don’t buy on the spot, it can plant a seed for future interest. Invite them to check out your website for updates or subscribe to your mailing list.
Pro Tip: Prepare a quick “story” for each major piece—just a sentence or two. It can help you engage visitors who are interested but unsure about what to ask. Sometimes, that small detail is what turns curiosity into a sale.
Stop By and Say Hello!
If you’re in the area on either of these dates, stop by and say hello! Prepping for these events is a labour of love, and it’s always rewarding to meet people who share an appreciation for art. And for those who can’t make it in person, feel free to explore my online gallery any time.