Why Do In-Person Fine Art Events

Today, we’re diving into an essential topic: why you should participate in in-person events. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, in-person events can play a significant role in your art business. 

So, let’s get started and explore the many benefits of showing up in person.

1) Building Personal Connections

First up, let me say that I know in-person events can be a pain. Depending on the event you may have to set up a booth or tent, schlepp dozens of paintings around, stand around for hours or days on end, or pay some pretty hefty fees. So I completely understand if you’d much rather just sell your art from behind your computer screen. But when you’re just starting out and sales are trickling in - doing a few in-person events can really help you in a few specific ways. In-person events allow you to build personal connections with your audience. There’s something truly magical about meeting potential collectors and artists face-to-face. These personal interactions can create lasting impressions that are hard to achieve online.

When people meet you in person, they get to see the passion and dedication you put into your work. They can ask questions, hear your stories, and feel a genuine connection to you and your art. This personal touch can significantly enhance their appreciation and loyalty to your work.

2) Immediate Feedback and Insights

The second benefit of in-person events is the immediate feedback and insights you receive. When you’re at an art fair, a gallery show, or pop-up event, you can see firsthand how people react to your work. You’ll get valuable feedback on what resonates with your audience and what doesn’t.

This instant feedback loop is incredibly useful for refining your art and your marketing strategy. It helps you understand your audience better and make informed decisions about future projects and exhibitions.

3) Expanding Your Network

In-person events are also fantastic for expanding your professional network. You’ll meet gallery owners, curators, art collectors, and other artists. These connections can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and even lifelong friendships. Networking in person is often more impactful than connecting online. People are more likely to remember you and your work after meeting you face-to-face. So, don’t underestimate the power of a warm in-person conversation.

4) Boosting Your Credibility and Visibility

Participating in in-person events can also boost your credibility and visibility as an artist. Being featured in art fairs, galleries, or local shows positions you as a serious professional in the art community. It shows that you’re actively engaged and committed to your work. This increased visibility can lead to more opportunities, including possible media coverage, invitations to other exhibitions, and even increased sales. The more people see you and your work, the more they’ll remember you when it’s time to buy or recommend an artist.

5) Selling More Art

Lastly, in-person events can lead to more sales. When people see your art in person, they can fully appreciate its texture, colors, and details in a way that’s impossible online. This sensory experience often helps convert an admirer to a collector. Plus, when buyers meet you and hear your story, they’re more likely to feel a personal connection to the piece and be willing to invest in it. In-person events give you the chance to create those memorable experiences that can turn visitors into loyal customers.

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Alright, my friend, those are the five reasons why you should consider participating in a few in-person events. Just know that all in-person opportunities are not created equal. I suggest you vet your opportunities and speak to artists who have participated in the past to be sure it's going to be worth both your time and financial investment.

All the best,

Jennifer