Time to Apply: Blue Genie Art Bazaar

The holiday season is one of the best times sales opportunities for artists and handmade business owners. If you have work that is easily giftable, consider Blue Genie Art Bazaar. This event is unique in that it's open for a full month and showcases a wide range of talent. Artists aren't on site the whole time which allows them to keep making items. The application went live in May, but there is still plenty of time to submit. Just be sure you get everything in by August 10th. Here are some key considerations.

Time to Apply: East Austin Studio Tour

East Austin Studio Tour is one of our city's most unique art events organized by Big Medium, and the application period for 2018 opens July 10th. If you have a studio space within the East boundary or you have a place you can show your work, this is a great event to connect with art collectors. What do you need to know about applying? Here's a run down from a long time attendee with insights into application guidelines as well. Good luck!

Share Your Gift as a Chula League BIG ARTIST

In this season of giving, most of us are thinking about the things we can buy, but I want to take the opportunity to talk to my artist friends about something less tangible. Have you ever thought about giving the gift of your time to an aspiring young artist? I can personally attest to the value of mentorship when considering the arts. This is not an easy business, but it's worth if you have help navigating the challenges. Think about the support you've gotten throughout your life as you explored art. For most of us, the journey starts when we are young, and without the right encouragement, we could have ended up going any other direction. While this may sound biased given my involvement in the local nonprofit Chula League, I am truly inspired by their Little Artist BIG ARTIST program. Built entirely around mentorship, this organization pairs professional artists with elementary school students who show promise in the arts for one-on-one art sessions. I highly recommend this opportunity if you have time in your schedule this coming spring! Find out more below.

Images from Chula League

Texas Art Events: Part 4

Here is my fourth installation of art events to consider in and around Texas. We've talked about areas just outside of Austin, and then the greater metros of Dallas / Fort Worth and Houston. Now I wrap up my compilation with San Antonio and beyond. There are more events than I can list, but I hope these help you start your search and grow your exposure as a market artist. If I missed any of your favorite art festivals, please let me know!

Art Events in the Houston Area

Did you know I lived in Houston for a year or so? While Austin will always be my hometown and a favorite in terms of culture, Houston has a lot to offer. First of all, the Houston Art Car parade is a one-of-a-kind event that every Texan should see at least once in their life. While I was there, I didn't take full advantage of the many other art events to enjoy. Now that I have a more complete list, I'll have to make more trips down there. Check out these options for selling your handmade items to Houstonians and the surrounding area.

Art Events in the Dallas / Ft. Worth Area

If you happen to be looking for events a little farther away from Austin to help grow your customer base, the Dallas Fort Worth area has a lot to offer. Just a couple hour drive away from our great city, Dallas also has a vibrant art scene. Below are the bigger events I was able to find in North Texas, including some smaller cities around Dallas. Most of those happening in April 2018 will have deadlines coming up soon, so be sure to visit their website if you want to apply!

Art Events & Markets Around Austin

If you've lived in Austin for a few years, you're probably pretty familiar with our local annual events. There are quite a few great options to choose from, but when you're looking to expand your audience, you may want to consider events outside of Austin. This week I'm starting with those within an hour or so drive from Austin. Stay tuned for future lists for Dallas / Ft. Worth, Houston, San Antonio and more. Most of these happen one or twice a year. Check out their websites for details on vendor applications!

Artwork by Billie Claire Handmade

Apply for Austin Art Boards

Have you seen those billboards around Austin with local art and wondered how to get your work up there? How cool would it be to see one of your pieces high above to city for anyone and everyone to enjoy? Reagan Advertising in conjunction with the Austin Visual Arts Association is offering you that chance by filling their unused billboards with local talent! What better gallery than the whole city? I'm planning to share some of my photography. How about you?

Apply for West Austin Studio Tour 2017

West Austin Studio Tour is now accepting applications! If you're an Artist with a studio or gallery in the designated area (or you can find a space to display like Blue Genie's new spot), you could be a good fit. This Big Medium organized event provides art lovers an amazing opportunity to see you and your work in your "natural" creative environment. There is no charge for attendees, and they get to choose which art they make it out to see. Its two weekends full of art adventures and gallery hunting! West is now in its 6th year and continues doing a beautiful job connecting Artists and Art enthusiasts. More details below. Good luck if you apply!