1. Plan ahead of time
Now is the time to make sure all your bases are covered. Don’t get caught out. Business cards are printed and up to date. You’ve decided and organised the best, and safest, way to transport the artwork to and from the fair. Packaging for sold artworks is in place. You’ve told everyone in your network that you are exhibition at ‘This Art Fair! And all of your online channels are up-to-date.
2. Don’t risk it
If there is something that you don’t want to run out of, something that will be fundamental to your exhibition, make sure you have it ready and packed. Think phone chargers, stationary, hangers, sticky tape. And it doesn’t hurt to have back ups.
3. Be open to new stuff
Look out for things that you like but also make sure to indulge in the immense diversity offered at the fair. There is always room for last minute events and invitations. The potential for feedback, critiques and collaborations. Be open to this but also remember what your initial intention was when you signed up.
4. Use an organisation app
Boost productivity and stay ahead of yourself. Evernote is a great example of this. If you have an iphone or ipad download their free app, (unfortunately it’s not available on Android, there are similar versions). My favourite feature is being able to scan and store documents, including peoples business cards, for a paperless life. You can choose to create involved check lists with goals attached, or create a basic to-do list. This is a great way to time manage yourself and make sure nothing gets missed. Great for multi-taskers like us!
5. Go to showcases and previews
December and January are big art months in Amsterdam. Go to http://www.iamsterdam.com website to find what’s on.
6. Check out our free seminars
Many of you joined us for the workshop last week, with some great key note speakers in the industry. They were there to answer all your ‘Art Fair questions. Did you miss this or still want more info? Make sure you are signed up to our newsletter to keep up to date with additional tips and info as we go along.
7. Prepare for long days
With so much going on, it can easily happen that you spend an entire day stood at your booth, without a break. Comfy shoes are a must. Also, bring a bottle of water and healthy snacks, think fruit, nuts, and nutritious meals. Aim to stay hydrated and energised.
8. Be an early bird
Plan in a little extra time to arrive at the venue early. Amsterdam is known for train delays and busy streets. Aim to arrive fresh and ready to go.
9. Reward yourself
Our achievements, no matter how big or small, should be celebrated. A lot can be said about the courage it takes to exhibit and showcase your work. Whether it’s completing tasks in the lead up to the event, a successful installation, conversation, every little bit is a step forward in your artistic journey and should be backed up with some self-celebration.
10. Take a break
Finally, being part of an Art Fair can be really exhausting. I can tell that after just two days of attending an event, I need a little break. I’m sure you will feel the same eventually, so here are a few ideas- that could be organised in advance: get back to nature go camping or hiking, have a vino in a nice cafe; order a massive hummus falafel at Waterloo Market (great value!); or even take a nap back in your room – which is what we will do just now!