ArtFest Fort Myers Loves
Our Artists
Why Come To ArtFest Fort Myers
Over 60,000 people attend ArtFest Fort Myers and we put the emphasis on attracting a strong art buying crowd.
Fort Myers is Southwest Florida's largest metro area and the hub of activity from Marco Island to Sarasota. 53% of our population is in the prime art buying age group. Our community supports the arts and attendance at ArtFest Fort Myers continues to increase each year.
At ArtFest Fort Myers it is all about bringing the buyers to you! Our marketing plan takes a synergistic approach that combines all types of media. It is valued at $150,000 and results in over 10 million advertising impressions throughout Southwest Florida. The Plan includes television, radio, newspaper, glossy magazines, billboards, direct mail, theater/symphony programs and of course, our website.
Please view our advertising campaign for our 2010 festival at ArtFest Artists.com
Our ads are professional designed and we routinely win awards for the quality of our ads and collateral materials.
Start off the month of February in Fort Myers where local art buyers and those from our neighboring cities of Naples, Bonita Springs and Sarasota will enjoy and purchase your artwork. The rest of February and early March are filled with wonderful art festivals all over Florida it makes a great winter selling season!
Over 60,000 people attend ArtFest Fort Myers and we put the emphasis on attracting a strong art buying crowd.
Fort Myers is Southwest Florida's largest metro area and the hub of activity from Marco Island to Sarasota. 53% of our population is in the prime art buying age group. Our community supports the arts and attendance at ArtFest Fort Myers continues to increase each year.
At ArtFest Fort Myers it is all about bringing the buyers to you! Our marketing plan takes a synergistic approach that combines all types of media. It is valued at $150,000 and results in over 10 million advertising impressions throughout Southwest Florida. The Plan includes television, radio, newspaper, glossy magazines, billboards, direct mail, theater/symphony programs and of course, our website.
Please view our advertising campaign for our 2010 festival at ArtFest Artists.com
Our ads are professional designed and we routinely win awards for the quality of our ads and collateral materials.
Start off the month of February in Fort Myers where local art buyers and those from our neighboring cities of Naples, Bonita Springs and Sarasota will enjoy and purchase your artwork. The rest of February and early March are filled with wonderful art festivals all over Florida it makes a great winter selling season!
How to Apply
Applications for ArtFest Fort Myers 2011 will be available beginning May 15th, 2010 and are due on or before September 17, 2010. ArtFest Fort Myers uses Zapplication™ to manage applications.
If you are new to ZAPP™ - - When you arrive at the ZAPP™ site just click on the Register New Users button and it will lead you through the application process.
For artists needing assistance with the digital application process, ArtFest Fort Myers is ready to help you! We want no artist to feel left behind.
You can apply with a Paper Application and we will handle the digitizing of your slides and set-up your account with Zapplication™. This also enables you to apply to other Zapplication™ art festivals with ease!
Call our hotline for assistance with creating your account at Zapplication™ and uploading your images.
Hotline is 239-768-3602.
Applications for ArtFest Fort Myers 2011 will be available beginning May 15th, 2010 and are due on or before September 17, 2010. ArtFest Fort Myers uses Zapplication™ to manage applications.
If you are new to ZAPP™ - - When you arrive at the ZAPP™ site just click on the Register New Users button and it will lead you through the application process.
For artists needing assistance with the digital application process, ArtFest Fort Myers is ready to help you! We want no artist to feel left behind.
You can apply with a Paper Application and we will handle the digitizing of your slides and set-up your account with Zapplication™. This also enables you to apply to other Zapplication™ art festivals with ease!
Call our hotline for assistance with creating your account at Zapplication™ and uploading your images.
Hotline is 239-768-3602.
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Amenities
ArtFest Fort Myers is an artist-friendly outdoor festival. Our staff and volunteer crew want your experience at the Festival to be enjoyable, as well as profitable.
• Artist Corner includes daily complimentary continental breakfast, water, soda, coffee, snacks and private indoor restrooms
• Booth sitters
• Drive up access for ease in loading
• Friday set-up beginning at 1:00pm
• Professional overnight and daytime security
• Ample storage space behind booths
• Reserved artist parking within festival site
• Special group rates at nearby hotels
• Free and secure parking for artist RVs within easy walking distance
• Opportunity to advertise in festival publication(s)
• Artist acceptance e-mail will include links to ArtFestArtists.com website which has information about the festival site plan, directions and information on hotels and RV parks.
• Artist Corner includes daily complimentary continental breakfast, water, soda, coffee, snacks and private indoor restrooms
• Booth sitters
• Drive up access for ease in loading
• Friday set-up beginning at 1:00pm
• Professional overnight and daytime security
• Ample storage space behind booths
• Reserved artist parking within festival site
• Special group rates at nearby hotels
• Free and secure parking for artist RVs within easy walking distance
• Opportunity to advertise in festival publication(s)
• Artist acceptance e-mail will include links to ArtFestArtists.com website which has information about the festival site plan, directions and information on hotels and RV parks.
Fees & Deadlines
Application Fee
$35
Booth Fees
Single Booth 10 x10 is $325 plus 6% sales tax = $344.50
Double booth spaces available in limited number
Deadlines
May 15 - Application on Zapplication Available
September 1 - Paper application deadline (by mail only)
September 17 - Application Deadline
September 29 - Preview Jury Day (Artists Welcome)
September 30 - Jury Day
October 18 - Notification of acceptance
November 5 - Booth Fees Due
November 19 - Withdrawal date w/o forfeiture of Booth Fee
February 4 - Artists’ Check-in, Set-up & Hospitality
February 5 & 6 - ArtFest Fort Myers 2011
Artists Awards
$5,000 in Cash Awards
VIP Membership comprised of known art buyers
Winners from previous year invited to exhibit in 2011
VIP Membership comprised of known art buyers
Winners from previous year invited to exhibit in 2011
Selection Process
ArtFest Fort Myers strives to create a balanced show that represents diverse styles and techniques in the categories defined below. Artists are selected based upon quality of workmanship, originality and artistic conception. All work must be done soley by the displaying artists.
ArtFest Fort Myers uses Zapplication™ to administer its application and jury process. The jury is a "blind jury". This means the jurors do not know the names or any other information about the artists. The five member panel is convened in the same room, each having access to a computer monitor for scoring purposes. Artist images are projected digitally (image size is 3 feet by 3 feet), each artist's images will be shown simultaneously and scored on a seven point scale. We do not jury on computer monitors. The image description and Artist Statement will be available to the jurors on their computer monitor.
Please check out the Director's Corner Page for some helpful tips on creating a good artwork submission.
Eighty percent (80%) of the artist spaces will be selected through the jury process. The remaining spaces are for 2010 award winners and invited artists.
The jurors are a diverse group of experienced art professionals. They are selected for their art background and for their appreciation of festival artists. The decision of the jury is final.
Images from accepted artists will be utilized for promotion and adherence to the rules.
A wait list, by category, will be established for each portion of the festival.
ArtFest Fort Myers uses Zapplication™ to administer its application and jury process. The jury is a "blind jury". This means the jurors do not know the names or any other information about the artists. The five member panel is convened in the same room, each having access to a computer monitor for scoring purposes. Artist images are projected digitally (image size is 3 feet by 3 feet), each artist's images will be shown simultaneously and scored on a seven point scale. We do not jury on computer monitors. The image description and Artist Statement will be available to the jurors on their computer monitor.
Please check out the Director's Corner Page for some helpful tips on creating a good artwork submission.
Eighty percent (80%) of the artist spaces will be selected through the jury process. The remaining spaces are for 2010 award winners and invited artists.
The jurors are a diverse group of experienced art professionals. They are selected for their art background and for their appreciation of festival artists. The decision of the jury is final.
Images from accepted artists will be utilized for promotion and adherence to the rules.
A wait list, by category, will be established for each portion of the festival.
Category Descriptions
Ceramics - Art objects either functional or decorative of earthenware, porcelain, or tile, made by shaping and then firing a nonmetallic mineral, such as clay, at a high temperature.
Digital - Pictures made with the assistance of computers. Computer Graphics are often made with software called drawing, painting, illustrating and photographic programs or applications.
Drawing/Pastels - Drawings are works on paper using pencil, crayon, ink, charcoal, pastels and a variety of other marking media.
Fiber - Includes non-wearable artwork from fibers such as basketry, embroidery, weaving, tapestry and papermaking.
Glass - The expression of art made from blowing and fashioning glass.
Graphics/Printmaking - Printmaking is a transfer process of producing original art, usually in multiples. It involves creating a drawing or other composition on a surface other than paper, for transfer to paper through the use of a press or through impressions made by hand.
Jewelry - Ornaments, such as bracelets, necklaces, or rings. Made of precious metals set with gems or semi-precious gems or ceramic or glass or any other product.
Metalworks - Creating artwork through the forging, twisting and fabricating of various metals.
Mixed Media - Includes any combination of a variety of materials to create an original work of art. This artwork may be 2-D or 3-D.
Painting: Oil/Acrylic - Creation of a still life, portrait, landscape, abstract or other image on a flat surface, such as canvas, with oil and/or acrylic paint or sticks.
Painting: Watercolor - Creation of a still life, portrait, landscape, abstract or other image on a flat surface with watercolors.
Photography - Process of capturing images of objects by the action of light, then printing the images, by chemical or digital means, onto a flat surface.
Sculpture - Shaping figures or design in the round or in relief by chiseling marble, modeling clay, casting metal or other materials.
Wearable - Includes clothing or leather goods, such as belts or purses, that can be worn.
Wood - Art objects either functional or decorative that may be hand-tooled or machine worked in wood.
Digital - Pictures made with the assistance of computers. Computer Graphics are often made with software called drawing, painting, illustrating and photographic programs or applications.
Drawing/Pastels - Drawings are works on paper using pencil, crayon, ink, charcoal, pastels and a variety of other marking media.
Fiber - Includes non-wearable artwork from fibers such as basketry, embroidery, weaving, tapestry and papermaking.
Glass - The expression of art made from blowing and fashioning glass.
Graphics/Printmaking - Printmaking is a transfer process of producing original art, usually in multiples. It involves creating a drawing or other composition on a surface other than paper, for transfer to paper through the use of a press or through impressions made by hand.
Jewelry - Ornaments, such as bracelets, necklaces, or rings. Made of precious metals set with gems or semi-precious gems or ceramic or glass or any other product.
Metalworks - Creating artwork through the forging, twisting and fabricating of various metals.
Mixed Media - Includes any combination of a variety of materials to create an original work of art. This artwork may be 2-D or 3-D.
Painting: Oil/Acrylic - Creation of a still life, portrait, landscape, abstract or other image on a flat surface, such as canvas, with oil and/or acrylic paint or sticks.
Painting: Watercolor - Creation of a still life, portrait, landscape, abstract or other image on a flat surface with watercolors.
Photography - Process of capturing images of objects by the action of light, then printing the images, by chemical or digital means, onto a flat surface.
Sculpture - Shaping figures or design in the round or in relief by chiseling marble, modeling clay, casting metal or other materials.
Wearable - Includes clothing or leather goods, such as belts or purses, that can be worn.
Wood - Art objects either functional or decorative that may be hand-tooled or machine worked in wood.
Reproduction Policy
To foster an appreciation and value of the arts in all people, including those who cannot afford original work, we believe it is important to offer attendees the opportunity to buy reproductions. As their incomes grow they will turn to original work. This transition is possible only if buyers understand exactly what they are buying and the process behind it. Therefore, ArtFest Fort Myers' guidelines are:
All reproductions must be clearly and individually labeled as such. Labels must say “Reproduction”. This includes any framed reproductions.
• Reproductions must be in signed editions of no more than 500.
• No hand colored reproductions will be considered “original” works; they will be considered reproductions.
• Reproductions are an ancillary part of the artists display and are not to exceed 40% of all work displayed on the artist's walls.
• Violators of the spirit, as well as the letter of this policy will be asked to remove their reproductions. In any dispute, the decision of the Festival Director shall prevail.
All reproductions must be clearly and individually labeled as such. Labels must say “Reproduction”. This includes any framed reproductions.
• Reproductions must be in signed editions of no more than 500.
• No hand colored reproductions will be considered “original” works; they will be considered reproductions.
• Reproductions are an ancillary part of the artists display and are not to exceed 40% of all work displayed on the artist's walls.
• Violators of the spirit, as well as the letter of this policy will be asked to remove their reproductions. In any dispute, the decision of the Festival Director shall prevail.
Rules and Regs
ArtFest Fort Myers is open to all Artists. Artwork must be original in design and an artist may display and sell only in the media category in which his work has been accepted. Work displayed and sold at ArtFest Fort Myers must be consistent with work represented by jury images.
If two or more persons collaborate to produce original work, each person must be identified on the Application. Collaborations are to be true artistic collaboration rather than business collaborations. For example, framing or printing of work does not constitute a creative partnership. No work by apprentices or employees will be accepted.
Commercial agents, dealers, manufacturers or buy-sell vendors are not eligible to enter nor can they be proxies for artists.
Artwork produced with kits, castings from commercial molds, patterns, plans or other commercial means is not permitted.
Artists and all collaborating partners must be present on-site with their booths open for business during the entire Festival. Photo ID will be required.
Artists are required to display an Artist Information Statement in a prominent place within their booth. Materials and processes used must be disclosed in this statement.
Displaying ribbons and awards from previous shows or other shows is not allowed.
Original art must occupy at least 60% of the artist’s wall space. All artwork on walls must be framed. Browse bins may occupy only minimal space and must be aesthetically pleasing and not obstruct patron flow. All artwork displayed must be for sale.
Limited edition, signed, and numbered reproductions of artworks are allowed. Artist must define “limited edition” in their Artist Information Statement and must disclose their reproduction process to buyers.
Artists must comply with all safety requirements, and vehicles must be parked only in designated areas.
Exhibitors are responsible for the collection and payment of applicable Florida sales tax.
Artists may withdraw from ArtFest Fort Myers and receive a refund of their Booth Fee (less $50), if a written request is received before November 20, 2010. No refunds will be issued after that date. ArtFest Fort Myers is a rain or shine festival. No refunds will be issued for weather or other acts of God.
No animals are allowed in or around Artists’ booths.
Acceptance into ArtFest Fort Myers is non-transferable. Only artwork of the accepted artist may be displayed.
Artists violating the rules of ArtFest Fort Myers will become ineligible for admission to future festivals. ArtFest Fort Myers will review all displays to assure compliance and reserves the exclusive right to interpret and enforce the Rules. In any dispute, the decision of the Festival Director shall prevail.
If two or more persons collaborate to produce original work, each person must be identified on the Application. Collaborations are to be true artistic collaboration rather than business collaborations. For example, framing or printing of work does not constitute a creative partnership. No work by apprentices or employees will be accepted.
Commercial agents, dealers, manufacturers or buy-sell vendors are not eligible to enter nor can they be proxies for artists.
Artwork produced with kits, castings from commercial molds, patterns, plans or other commercial means is not permitted.
Artists and all collaborating partners must be present on-site with their booths open for business during the entire Festival. Photo ID will be required.
Artists are required to display an Artist Information Statement in a prominent place within their booth. Materials and processes used must be disclosed in this statement.
Displaying ribbons and awards from previous shows or other shows is not allowed.
Original art must occupy at least 60% of the artist’s wall space. All artwork on walls must be framed. Browse bins may occupy only minimal space and must be aesthetically pleasing and not obstruct patron flow. All artwork displayed must be for sale.
Limited edition, signed, and numbered reproductions of artworks are allowed. Artist must define “limited edition” in their Artist Information Statement and must disclose their reproduction process to buyers.
Artists must comply with all safety requirements, and vehicles must be parked only in designated areas.
Exhibitors are responsible for the collection and payment of applicable Florida sales tax.
Artists may withdraw from ArtFest Fort Myers and receive a refund of their Booth Fee (less $50), if a written request is received before November 20, 2010. No refunds will be issued after that date. ArtFest Fort Myers is a rain or shine festival. No refunds will be issued for weather or other acts of God.
No animals are allowed in or around Artists’ booths.
Acceptance into ArtFest Fort Myers is non-transferable. Only artwork of the accepted artist may be displayed.
Artists violating the rules of ArtFest Fort Myers will become ineligible for admission to future festivals. ArtFest Fort Myers will review all displays to assure compliance and reserves the exclusive right to interpret and enforce the Rules. In any dispute, the decision of the Festival Director shall prevail.
Crowds gather to buy art!
What Artists Say About ArtFest Fort Myers
"Thank you for the best organized event in the state of Florida! Crowds were awesome, press was awesome and kindnesss to us was amazing!"
"Fantastic staff, great layout, beautiful location, great amenities, reasonable show hours, convenient hotels and parking! I can't think of any way to make this show better."
“Without a doubt, this is the best quality show I have ever done and it is an honor to be accepted to participate.”
“It appears that from a marketing standpoint, your efforts were well spent in attracting a nice cross section of the community to the show. And they BUY too!”
"Fantastic staff, great layout, beautiful location, great amenities, reasonable show hours, convenient hotels and parking! I can't think of any way to make this show better."
“Without a doubt, this is the best quality show I have ever done and it is an honor to be accepted to participate.”
“It appears that from a marketing standpoint, your efforts were well spent in attracting a nice cross section of the community to the show. And they BUY too!”
Sunday's HOT Award Breakfast for all artists
Volunteers greet artists to direct you to your booth location.
Block Captain,
Setting Up