How can I maximize the ROI of doing art shows and fairs?

The ROI of a show isn’t just the immediate sales you make at your booth—it’s the connections and future opportunities. A show where you break even on booth costs but meet someone who becomes a client months later for a major project is actually highly successful. Focus on identifying people looking for something in the future, not just immediate buyers. Watch for people who pause and look carefully at your work—that’s enough to start a conversation. Collect emails and contact information, and follow up after the show. Study best practices beforehand using available guides and playbooks. One effective strategy is offering a booth-only discount during the show to create urgency, and always bring pieces that showcase your range to spark different kinds of conversations.

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Asked by an artist evaluating art show opportunities · Answered by Derek Emge and Patrick Shanahan · art-marketing-podcast · 2024-09-06