AFFORDABLE ART FAIR IMPRESSIIONS
AFFORDABLE ART FAIR IMPRESSIIONS
JANINE GOOD – MSWPS BOOTH F8
As a first-time exhibitor of the Affordable Art Fair my expectations were well exceeded, not only for the thrill of exhibiting in such a grand setting as the Royal Exhibition Buildings - which I found stunning.
For me it was such a rare opportunity to meet with serious collectors who knew exactly what they wanted in an artwork. It was just as equally a thrill to meet younger emerging collectors who so desperately wanted to acquire, worried that someone else would get in ahead of them but at the same time nervous about their decision. I have never in my 40+ years as a practicing artist experienced this kind of environment. In the regional areas people are more cautious and a bit suspicious of artists and what they do, so it is sometimes hard to maintain confidence in your work. That’s why I think it is important that regional artists have an outlet such as the AAF or a good representing Gallery.
The Affordable Art Fair gave me such a boost. It was by far the best experience I’ve ever had for sales and feedback about my art and was well worth the investment. It’s also inspiring to be amongst so many like-minded people, that Art really matters to so many!
The sense of community amongst the artists and gallerists was wonderful, everyone so helpful with advice, support and friendly, best wishes. It was a massive learning experience for me. I would do so many things differently next time. For example, allowing viewers their own space to view before approaching. Engaging with them to ask what they see in the work instead of advising what my intentions were with the work, unless of course they ask. It is a skill that I need more practice and experience with.
Practical notes: I would invest in a pair of comfortable stylish shoes for next time because 40 hours over 4 days is a killer when you’re over 60, 70 or 80! I would dress in neutral toned clothes that don’t compete with the artworks and don’t require decision making when planning for a long, busy day ahead. Having accommodation in the city was a must (thanks Denise!) because the days are very long and being 5 minutes from “home” for the duration was essential to surviving it. We needed a more organised system in our storage space such as shelving and a communal toolbox.
As an organisation we successfully raised awareness of the long and rich history MSWPS has in Melbourne and I’m confident that we will have an influx of new memberships as a result of being at the AAF. I only came across one person who had heard of the Melbourne Society of Women Painters and Sculptors. We handed out hundreds of MSWPS flyers and invitations to the MSWPS Annual Exhibition, Changing Perspectives, October 7-18 coming up at Victorian Artists Society Galleries.
To sum up, it is by far the best experience I’ve had for reaching an informed audience and gaining new fans of your art who are willing to support you. It is a thrill to witness a client literally rushing back to your booth to purchase an artwork in fear of missing out on it. So much art and so much appreciation and love of art, what more could you ask for!
JANINE GOOD
With great appreciation we thank Katherine Cosgrove, MSWPS Committee Member, who proposed our participation at the fair. She was enthusiastic, energetic, considerate of each artist and very well organised.
Have a look at the following links of promotion and reviews:
Sean Car Inner City News
Mutual Art Magazine September
Women’s Art Register Community Update