How to Sell Art at Summer Markets

Almost every city has summer markets. In big metropolitan areas, this can mean large indoor events organized in convention centers or arenas. In small cities or the countryside, it usually involves setting up tables and booths outdoors, often around items such as consumables (fruits or farm items) or antiques. You can sell art at summer markets as long as you follow some basic rules.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tent or large outdoor umbrella

1. Research the venue. Many summer markets are informal affairs attended by people looking for a variety of items. This may be fine if you sell jewelry or small items, but may not be the right place for you if you sell expensive paintings or sculptures. Some venues also have a theme (country, farm, antiques). Unless your work matches the theme, you may not be able to sell much.
2. Find out how the place works. You may be required to buy a table, or you may simply need to make a reservation and then share a percentage of the profits. Other places may allow you to put up a table or a booth for a nominal donation.
3. Keep your booth small. People at summer markets are there to walk around and enjoy the market, rather than to look for art. If you have too many things to sell, people may get overwhelmed and walk away. Offer a variety of things at different prices so you can appeal to different people.
4. Watch the weather, especially if you are selling art that can be damaged by water. If you are completely outdoors, make sure you have a tent or large patio umbrella to protect your work, or keep a car parked nearby so you can pack up and leave if the need arrives.
5. Keep in mind that selling art at summer markets is often "interrupted" by events such as speakers, concerts and giveaways. This is especially true of summer markets set up around a theme or those organized by a particular group or association. You need to perfect your sales pitch, so you can close the sale as quickly as possible, before the customer gets distracted by something else.

Tips & Warnings

• Art that is easily damaged may not be the best choice for a summer market, due to the atmosphere and the amount of people moving around the booths.
• If you have high-end art, you may do better choosing a summer market in a large city, even if it means driving there.

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