Saturday and Sunday, February 1 - 2, 2025
Opening Night Friday, January 31, 2025

Saturday and Sunday,
February 1-2, 2025
Opening Night Friday,
January 31, 2025

What Makes An Art Festival Right for You?

Preparing for your upcoming year: 9 key questions to guide your festival selection

What Makes A Festival Great for You ArtFest Fort Myers

As you plan for the upcoming year and select the right festivals for your art, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure a successful and rewarding experience. While there's no one-size-fits-all formula, here are nine key questions to help you narrow down your choices:

  1. Community size and artist participation: Does the festival's community size align with the number of participating artists? A balanced ratio ensures a better chance of attracting a substantial art-buying crowd.
  2. Art-buyer focus: Is the festival dedicated to attracting an art-buyer audience? Events that prioritize art buyers can significantly boost your chances of successful sales.
  3. Community support for the Arts: Does the community consistently support the arts, visual and performing, throughout the year? A vibrant arts community often attracts enthusiastic patrons.
  4. Comprehensive marketing plan: Does the event have a well-rounded marketing plan covering various media channels, such as print, radio, TV, website, and social platforms? Widespread marketing reaches a diverse range of potential buyers.
  5. Artist advertising program: Is there an option for artists to participate in the event's advertising program to promote their work? Leveraging collective advertising efforts can increase exposure.
  6. Scheduling and travel: Can you create a comfortable festival circuit with several weekend events aligning with your travel plans and preferences?
  7. Artist gallery and medium balance: If available, check out the festival's "Artist Gallery" page. Assess whether there's a good balance of mediums among invited artists and if previous artists' work aligns with your style.
  8. Artist amenities: Do the festival's artist amenities, such as layout, set-up arrangements, hotel rates, reserved parking, and hospitality, meet your specific needs?
  9. Seek recommendations: Have you contacted your fellow artist friends for recommendations? First-hand experiences and insights from other artists can be invaluable in deciding.

While finding the perfect festival may take some trial and error, considering these crucial questions will help you make informed choices and increase your chances of finding the best venues to showcase your art.

Happy planning, and may the upcoming year be filled with successful and fulfilling artistic endeavors!

Put Technology In Your Corner

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We get it; technology can seem daunting and time-consuming.

However, the financial rewards of staying up-to-date are truly impressive.

Embracing the right tools can simplify the business side of selling your artwork and boost your productivity.

Here are some game-changing products and services that can take your art festival journey to new heights:

  • Showcase your artistic process: Enlist a friend to record an informal video of yourself at work using their smartphone or make a "selfie." Narrating the creation of a piece and sharing its story can be compelling. Upload the video to your YouTube page and embed it on your website to share with the world. Post it on Facebook and share it with art festivals to enhance their Facebook page.
  • Master your communication: Maintain an updated email list of patrons using Constant Contact or Mailchimp. Quickly and easily keep buyers and potential buyers informed about your show schedule and latest creations.
  • Interactive booth experience: Mount an iPad or tablet in your booth with a captivating video showcasing you and your artwork. The visual impact will attract patrons, increasing the chances of a purchase. Moreover, the iPad can facilitate attendees to update their email lists, and you can process credit card transactions using Square or similar apps.
  • Crowdfunding for creativity: Explore crowdfunding platforms to raise money online for your latest ideas. Technology empowers creators to connect with patrons, and numerous websites cater to this innovative process.
  • Mobile payment solutions: Utilize a Square or similar device as a credit card reader with your smartphone or iPad. Instant processing and email collection make it efficient for you, and the information integrates seamlessly with your QuickBooks or financial software.
  • Expand your reach on social media: If you haven't already, create a compelling Facebook page to engage with your audience. Craft visually appealing posts showcasing your artwork and build a carousel of several pieces in one post. Setting up a Store Page on Facebook provides potential customers with convenient shopping options. Boost posts to specific zip codes to target art lovers in your following show location.
  • Website vitality: Regularly update your gallery page to entice browsing patrons to attend your next festival or make online purchases.
  • Smart travel: Optimize your smartphone while moving; use it to find the best gas prices, check weather forecasts, and plan the best routes (not while driving, please).

Embrace technology's potential to elevate your art festival experience in 2024. With the right tools and a touch of creativity, you can create an unforgettable and successful journey in the digital era.

So, let's embark on this tech-savvy adventure together and reap the benefits that await.

Be Available! Buyers Love to Talk to Artists

Be engaging, smile, and be prepared to shine

In today's fast-paced world, being accessible to attendees (buyers) is crucial for artists. Create an inviting presence in your booth, ready to captivate potential customers.

Craft quick, interesting, and concise comments about your artwork to catch buyers' attention. While your passion for creating art can be evident in your "why," showcasing your technique can be the hook that draws patrons in, leading to potential sales. Master the art of speaking about your work in a contagious and compelling manner.

Develop an "elevator speech," a brief and attention-grabbing summary of your artistry, particularly valuable for artists in sales. Keep it under 30 seconds to ensure you don't miss opportunities to engage with potential buyers.

Remember, your goal is to stand out and ignite excitement about your work. Craft an elevator speech that reflects your uniqueness and the special allure of your creations. Begin by listing key points you wish to convey, and then deliver them conversationally.

One artist's success story showcases the power of engaging conversation. With a simple smile and a 25-year journey honing his technique, a fruitful sale ensued.

Additional tips to enhance
your booth experience

Avoid sitting in the back of your booth or across the street, engrossed in devices or books. Engage with attendees and make eye contact, making them feel welcome and valued.

Consider demonstrating your pieces regularly, involving patrons in the process and making it an enjoyable experience. On-site demonstrations or an illustrative Artist Statement help people connect with you and your work, translating into increased sales.

Be ready to impress with your engaging presence and infectious enthusiasm, setting the stage for memorable interactions and successful sales.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. We're here to support your success at ArtFest Fort Myers.

Your Booth is Your Gallery

Maximize your artwork's
impact with thoughtful display

For 2D artists, creating an inviting display is crucial. Leave ample space around each artwork to allow it to shine individually. Utilize your outside walls effectively to expand your display area. Consider opting for corner booths or spaces with extra room on one or both sides at art festivals, as this provides 33% more wall space, making your art more prominent. If there's an extra fee for such areas, it's often worth the investment to showcase your work to its fullest potential.

3D artists can elevate their artwork's appeal by using pedestals to make it stand out. If you're a sculptor with oversized pieces, inquire with the festival staff about any available wide-open areas to showcase your creations. Festival organizers are often keen on creating attractive shows and will gladly accommodate your unique artwork.

Having a corner booth open on two sides can significantly boost your sales. This positioning creates a more welcoming and less intimidating entrance for attendees, allowing more people to view your artwork from different angles. This effect is particularly impactful for jewelers in corner booths, but it also applies to most 3D and many 2D artists.

Avoid overcrowding your booth with the artwork. Embrace a gallery-like setting that showcases your work with elegance and sophistication. An overcrowded booth can diminish the perceived value of your art, while a well-curated space will elevate its appeal and attract more discerning buyers.

Consider all aspects of your display, from units to browse bins, rugs, and decor. Ensure they complement your artwork and enhance its presentation. Thoughtful display choices will elevate your art and create a memorable experience for potential buyers.
Your artwork deserves to be seen in its best light, and by carefully curating your display, you can make it stand out in any art festival setting.

Feel free to contact our team for any inquiries or assistance with your display. We are here to support your success at ArtFest Fort Myers.


Jewelry Gallery


Metal Gallery


Photography Gallery

Help the Buyer See Your Artwork in Their Home

At ArtFest Fort Myers, we understand the importance of showcasing your artwork in a way that resonates with potential buyers and creates a lasting impression. Consider these key questions to ensure your artwork is displayed in a manner that does it justice and enhances its appeal to buyers:

  1. Thoughtful Display: Ask yourself if your artwork is presented in a way you feel fits the buyer's home. Consider the framing, glass, and mat choices—are they enhancing the artwork's beauty or detracting from its value? Opt for styles that most buyers would appreciate and cherish in their homes.
  2. Elevate with Pedestals: Consider using pedestals for specific artworks that benefit from elevation or a unique display. Elevating your pieces can add a touch of elegance and prominence, capturing buyers' attention.
  3. Ready for Installation: Ensure your artwork is prepared for effortless installation in the buyer's home. A seamless installation experience can leave a positive impression. If needed, openly offer to personally install the artwork for buyers to provide exceptional customer service.

By meticulously curating your artwork presentation, you create a memorable and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers. At ArtFest Fort Myers, a thoughtful and captivating display can significantly influence buyers' decisions, making your art even more irresistible.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance perfecting your artwork presentation. Our team is here to support your success at ArtFest Fort Myers!.

Jury Success: How to Put Your Best Foot Forward

Insights on the Jury Process:
The Competition is Fierce

Artists often seek our advice regarding their jury images before and after the results are announced. Drawing from our extensive experience, sharing some thoughts here might prove beneficial.

Image Size:

  • For shows using ZAPP, utilize the 1920 x 1920 space effectively.
  • Consider strategic cropping to showcase your artwork better.
  • Select artwork that portrays your work well within the 1920 x 1920 space, avoiding black bars that may diminish its impact.

Change it Up:

  • Ensure your artwork in jury images aligns with your current work.
  • Coordinate the style and use of the 1920 x 1920 space across your images.
  • Ensure coherence between individual artwork images and your booth shot to avoid confusion among jurors.

Booth Shots: Our Window to Your Display:

  • Effective booth shots accurately depict your outdoor art gallery without Photoshop manipulations.
  • Focus on your display, minimizing tent visibility.
  • Ensure artwork is tastefully displayed, giving a complete impression of your work.

Booth Shots: Why and How We Use Them:

  • Jurors use booth shots to assess consistency, artwork scale, and display aesthetics.
  • In tiebreaker situations, booth shots can influence the final acceptance decision.
  • Booth shots play a role in determining booth assignments, contributing to an aesthetically pleasing show for attendees.

We welcome your thoughts and questions:

Feel free to call us at 239-768-3602 between 9 am to 5 pm Eastern time. We are happy to review your images and provide personalized insights.

Remember, these are our thoughts, so consider them with your own and seek input from others.

Maximizing the Jury Process:

  • Watch an actual jury process or preview day, if available, gaining insights into how your images compare to your peers and the jury's perspective.
  • Utilize the jury process to test market different styles of artwork and determine which is best received in specific areas.

At ArtFest Fort Myers, we value the growth and success of artists. The jury process can be invaluable in refining your presentation and reaching new heights in your artistic career. Embrace the journey, seek continuous improvement, and keep creating captivating art.

If you need further assistance, please reach out. We look forward to supporting your artistic endeavors!

Study Those Busy Booths

Be aware of what
busy artists around
you are doing.

You must be mindful of what successful and busy artists around you are doing.

While luck may play a part, there are often valuable lessons to be learned from observing and understanding their practices.

  • Closely examine their booth setup, presentation, and engagement with visitors.
  • Are they effectively showcasing their artwork, offering unique experiences, or utilizing innovative marketing strategies?

By being aware and open to learning from others, you may discover new approaches and best practices to impact your artistic journey positively.

Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow from observing successful artists, as their experiences and techniques could prove invaluable in shaping your path to success.

Or maybe there is something
to be learned from that busy booth.

How to Create a Selling Atmosphere

Capturing More Sales Is A Team Effort

At ArtFest Fort Myers, capturing more sales is a collective effort. Our dedicated staff invests significant time and energy in creating an ideal setting and audience to facilitate your artwork sales. Here are some key aspects we carefully consider:

  • Creating the Right Look and Feel: We pay close attention to creating an atmosphere encouraging art purchases, ensuring the environment is welcoming and inspiring.
  • Strategic Layout and Crowd Flow: Our thoughtfully planned booth layout and crowd management ensure ease of movement and prime booth locations for all artists.
  • Effective Marketing: We undertake extensive marketing efforts to attract the right audience, drawing art enthusiasts and potential buyers to the event.
  • Engaging Attractions: To keep attendees at the event, we provide food, beverages, and entertainment, enticing them to explore and consider making artwork purchases.
  • Family-Friendly Experience: We cater to families, offering activities for children to keep them entertained while their parents enjoy the festival.
  • Artist Services: Our support extends to artists, providing amenities like breakfast, close parking, booth sitters, lunch delivery, and indoor restrooms, helping artists focus on their artwork sales.

Artists make the actual sale

In today's fast-paced world, being approachable and engaging is essential. As an artist, your active participation in interacting with attendees can significantly impact sales.
Here are some tips to make the most of your presence in your booth:

  • Be Present and Approachable: Welcome visitors with a compelling message about your artwork that catches their attention and sparks their interest.
  • Share Your Passion and Technique: Explain why you create passionately and highlight your technique to captivate patrons' curiosity.
  • Craft Your Elevator Speech: Develop a concise and attention-grabbing summation of your art and its uniqueness, leaving a lasting impression.
  • Make Eye Contact: Engage with every person who enters your booth, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Utilize Visuals: Enhance your booth with an iPad or tablet showcasing a video about you and your work to pique patrons' interest.
  • Demonstrate Your Art: Regularly demonstrate your artistic process and involve patrons in the experience. Interactive demonstrations and Artist Statements help visitors connect with you and your work.

Here are a couple of other
thoughts to consider:

  • Avoid sitting in the back or across the street from your booth with distractions like iPads or books. Make eye contact with visitors and ensure they feel welcome and valued.
  • Consider mounting an iPad or tablet in your booth with a video showcasing your work, providing a visual appeal to potential buyers.
  • Lastly, engaging patrons with demonstrations or illustrative Artist Statements fosters a deeper connection with your art, potentially leading to more sales.

By embracing these practices, we can make ArtFest Fort Myers an exceptional experience for artists and attendees, celebrating the power of art and creativity.

How to Build Sales Before and After an Art Festival

You are the perfect person to build your business and wonderful art “brand” by using Marketing & Promotion all year long and here are some helpful tips to get you started:

The Internet has given everyone (especially artists with artwork for sale) great and free tools to increase sales.More »

SAVE THE DATE FOR 2025!

Saturday and Sunday, February 1-2, 2025

Opening Night Friday, January 31

On the waterfront in historic downtown Fort Myers

Phone: 239-768-3602

Email: info@artfestfortmyers.com

Love ArtFest Fort Myers? Don't miss the Babcock Ranch Art Show!

Boutique Show • 60 Fine Artists
Great Food & Beverages
Youth Art Activities

March 9 & 10, 2024
10am to 4pm
Babcock Ranch

We're delighted to have helped Babcock Ranch launch this show with artists of the quality you enjoy every year at ArtFest Fort Myers.

LEARN MORE