Another Paradise City Festival is in the Books!

This is my second year as a full time artist and the reason it is possible is because of Paradise City Arts Festivals. Last year I participated in three out of four, and this year I'm going to have a booth at all four.

These festivals attract thousands of people who are interested in art and also able to buy it. Being an artist at these shows last year launched my career and I'm so grateful that I found my way to them.

I almost missed the last one because I was sick, but luckily I recovered in time to participate. But it scared me and made me think about the sustainability of relying so heavily on these shows happening seasonally.

I realize that I need to diversify my income, so that missing one of these shows isn't devastating. It also made me think about how very expensive it is to participate in these shows. For some, after paying for a booth, a place to stay, and related expenses I'm down about $2,000. If it also happens to be a show where I don't sell well, that is not a good situation. Happily, I have made enough to cover my expenses and have some profit at most of my shows so far, but its really dancing on the edge.

What I'm planning now: I'm looking into trying to teach some workshops in the near future. I'm looking into smaller, less expensive and more local festivals to add to my schedule, and I'm planning on setting aside some of my most successful paintings to be available for serious exhibits.

If anyone out there has ideas for diversifying my business please let me know. I'd love advice!