Selling your art is definitely not for the faint of heart. My passion for arts and crafts runs incredibly deep, and for some of us, turning our creations into income isn't just a choice—it's a genuine necessity. It's why we have the term "The Starving Artist," born from a time when, honestly, it felt easier to make sales. Times were simply different then.
I often think back to my early years at craft shows, a twenty-something bursting with energy, eager to showcase every handmade piece. I'd admire the older women who had been doing it for decades, always brimming with fascinating stories about life on the circuit. It's quite humbling to realize I've now become one of those seasoned crafters, with my own rich history of experiences to share.
Shifting Tides at the Craft Fair
Yet, times have changed. At today's craft fairs, particularly those attracting younger generations, it feels harder to forge those connections. There's a sense that they're less interested in engaging with older vendors or hearing our stories. I remember my last craft show, just last fall, noticing I was one of only a handful of crafters with years of experience. Many vendors sat quietly behind their tables, simply creating, barely acknowledging visitors. The room itself had a muted, almost monochromatic vibe—a bit beige, if you will. Much of the work even felt like a nostalgic nod to '90s crafts, which, ironically, truly gave me a spark of energy.
In contrast, my setup truly stood out. Bright, modern colors adorned my corner of the room, and my earrings were playful and unique. I made it a point to engage with attendees, striking up conversations and genuinely connecting with people. That personal touch really paid off; it turned out to be one of my best-selling years yet.
Navigating New Creative Currents
Now, I'm selling through this website, and my sales have almost come to a complete stop. This is my livelihood, and I absolutely refuse to give it up. Today, it seems to be all about "going live," and while I'm not afraid of it, I just really love to create by myself, perhaps with a great movie on or some hairbands. But this challenge? This unexpected quiet? I see it as just another creative problem to solve.
So, it's back to creating and figuring out my next move as hunger stirs. What truly keeps you going when we live in a time when it's harder than ever to thrive as an artist?
Until next time,
Laura 🪼
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