The Dos and Don’ts of Participating in Art Fairs

What Exactly Is an Art Fair?

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step into a buzzing space filled with artists, collectors, curators, and creative energy bouncing off the walls, welcome to the world of art fairs. At their heart, art fairs are large-scale events where multiple artists, galleries, and exhibitors come together under one roof (or tent!) to showcase and sell their work. Think of them as pop-up art universes, designed for discovery, connection, and, yes, opportunity.

Unlike a gallery exhibition that may spotlight just one or two artists, an art fair celebrates the collective, a curated collection of booths, each one a mini-world of its own. Whether it’s contemporary paintings, sculpture, printmaking, or mixed media, art fairs invite the public, buyers, and industry insiders to explore and engage directly with artists. Some fairs are highly curated and invite-only, while others are more grassroots, open to emerging artists who want to get their foot in the door.

What makes art fairs so special is the accessibility. You don’t have to be a seasoned collector or gallery insider to attend. These events are as much about community and storytelling as they are about sales. You’ll often find artist talks, workshops, live demos, and panels sprinkled throughout the schedule, making it feel more like an immersive cultural experience than a traditional exhibit.

And for artists? Art fairs offer visibility like few other spaces do. Whether you’re meeting a future gallery partner, chatting with curious art lovers, or connecting with fellow creatives, these gatherings can be a launching pad. Yes, they require preparation and nerves of steel, but they also open doors. Real ones. Ones that can lead to commissions, features, or simply, confidence.

So if you’re eyeing your first art fair or simply curious about what they’re all about, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the dos and don’ts that’ll help you feel confident and prepared for your next big art fair experience.

So, You Got Into an Art Fair! What Now?

Congrats! Whether this is your first art fair or your fifth, just being accepted is worth celebrating. But now comes the part where preparation meets presence. Art fairs can be energizing and overwhelming all at once, and having a plan makes all the difference.

The excitement of showcasing your work can quickly get tangled in logistics if you’re not careful. From transport to display to pricing, there’s more to it than just hanging your art and hoping for the best. It’s your moment to shine, not just survive.

Before diving headfirst into planning, take a moment to define your goals. Are you aiming to sell, get discovered, meet curators, or build your network? Knowing your “why” helps shape every decision that follows.

It’s easy to think everyone else has it all figured out, but trust me, most artists are winging some part of it. You’re not alone in feeling a bit nervous. A good checklist, a bit of calm, and a dash of confidence go a long way.

Give yourself permission to learn along the way. Even if something doesn’t go perfectly, every fair teaches you something new. Consider each one a stepping stone, not a final destination.

Do: Curate Your Booth Like a Mini Gallery

Your booth is more than just a place to hang art, it’s your personal gallery, your brand statement, and your storytelling space. Think of it as a pop-up version of your portfolio.

Keep your presentation clean and cohesive. Rather than crowding every inch with work, choose pieces that speak to each other and create a visual rhythm. Less really can be more when it’s well-curated.

Include a mix of sizes and price points if you’re selling. It invites a broader range of collectors and keeps things accessible. A small print might be someone’s first step into collecting your work.

Don’t forget to include your name and contact info visibly, on a banner, business cards, or even framed signage. People need to know who you are if they’re going to remember you after the event.

Bring a few personal touches, a little vase of flowers, a handwritten artist statement, or a favorite tool you use. These small details add warmth and can spark great conversations.

Don’t: Show Up Without a Game Plan

Winging it sounds adventurous, but at an art fair, it’s a recipe for stress. Take time beforehand to map out logistics, what time you need to arrive, how long setup takes, and what materials you’ll need.

Create a packing list a week in advance. Include everything from tools and hanging hardware to snacks and chargers. That forgotten roll of tape can make or break your morning.

Practice your booth setup at home if you can. It gives you a sense of timing and lets you troubleshoot layout or lighting issues before you’re in the public eye.

If sales are allowed, plan your pricing in advance and make signage clear. Prepare to handle payments through apps like Square or PayPal. Make the process smooth and simple for buyers.

Also, don’t forget to have a short, friendly intro prepared for when people ask about your work. You don’t need a script, just a relaxed explanation of your process or story.

Do: Engage With Visitors (Even if You’re Introverted)

We get it, talking to strangers about your art can feel awkward. But people love hearing the voice behind the work. A warm greeting or a simple, “Thanks for stopping by,” can open doors.

Try to find your version of approachable. If you’re not a chatterbox, that’s okay. Smiling, making eye contact, and being open to questions is enough to create a welcoming vibe.

Notice who lingers near your booth and make gentle conversation starters. “Is there a piece that caught your eye?” or “Are you an artist too?” invites connection without pressure.

Have something takeaway-friendly, like a postcard or small print with your website and social handles. Even if they don’t buy today, they might become followers or future collectors.

And don’t underestimate the power of gratitude. Thank every visitor genuinely, even if they just browsed. That kindness leaves a lasting impression.

Don’t: Compare Yourself to Every Artist Around You

It’s tempting to look at other booths and think, “They’re doing better,” or “Their work is more popular.” But comparison only steals the joy of your own progress.

Remember, every artist’s journey is different. Some may have more experience, better funding, or a larger following, but that doesn’t make your work any less valid or meaningful.

Instead of comparing, connect. Compliment a fellow artist’s booth. Ask how their fair is going. Often, the best friendships and collaborations grow from these shared experiences.

If someone else sells out and you don’t, that’s okay. Art fairs aren’t just about sales, they’re about presence, exposure, and learning. You showed up, and that’s already powerful.

Every artist started somewhere. What you’re building today might be what someone else envies a year from now. Keep your eyes on your own path and trust it’s unfolding.

Do: Make the Most of Every Opportunity

Even if foot traffic is slow or sales aren’t booming, there’s always something to gain. Each fair brings new eyes, conversations, and possibilities you might not expect.

Use downtime to chat with fellow artists or observe what seems to draw people in. Take mental notes. Maybe next time you try a new display trick or bring a different kind of print.

Collect emails from interested visitors (with permission!). A small sign-up sheet for your newsletter or announcements keeps your community growing beyond the booth.

Take photos of your booth and your work on display. These can be great for your portfolio, social media, or future applications. Document your journey with pride.

And remember to celebrate the wins, big or small. A lovely comment, a return visitor, or even a great conversation is all part of your momentum.

Don’t: Undervalue Your Work Just to Sell

Art fairs can bring pressure to price low, especially when others around you are making quick sales. But undervaluing your work sends the wrong message, to others and yourself.

Know your worth. Factor in materials, time, skill, and emotional investment when setting prices. You’re not just selling a product, you’re sharing a piece of yourself.

Offer a variety of price points through prints or smaller works if accessibility is important to you. But never feel forced to discount your originals unless it aligns with your strategy.

Confidence in pricing can actually build trust. When you value your work, collectors are more likely to see its worth and invest.

Remember, some of the best connections happen with those who don’t buy immediately but return later, inspired. Integrity lasts longer than a quick sale.

Do: Rest, Refuel, and Regroup

Art fairs can be draining. Between social energy, long hours, and standing on your feet, it’s important to take care of yourself too.

Pack water, snacks, and maybe a sandwich. Avoid relying only on fair food, it’s often expensive and not the most nourishing. A little planning keeps your energy up.

Schedule small breaks if you can, even if it’s just a quick walk or stretch. If you have a trusted friend or booth buddy, take turns watching each other’s spaces.

Wear comfy shoes and bring layers. Exhibition halls and outdoor fairs can be unpredictable with temperature. Comfort helps you stay present.

With all this: juggling setup, sales, and conversations can feel like spinning plates. That’s why having a trusted tool to map out your fair-day tasks and ideas is a game-changer. The Artist Artwork Planner from Arts to Hearts Project is your pocket-sized art assistant, page by page, it helps you schedule your booth setup, track visitor feedback, record sales, and jot spontaneous ideas for your next artwork. It’s like a supportive coworker you carry in your bag.

After the fair, give yourself time to decompress. Whether you sold out or just had good chats, honor the effort it took to show up and put your work out there.

Don’t: Skip the Follow-Up

One of the biggest missed opportunities after a fair? Forgetting to follow up. Those conversations and contacts deserve some post-fair love.

Email anyone who signed up for your list. A simple thank you with a photo of your booth or a special offer (like free shipping on a print) keeps the connection warm.

Update your social media with highlights from the event. Tag fellow artists, share what you learned, and show appreciation for the fair organizers.

If someone expressed interest in a piece but didn’t buy, send a kind follow-up. No pressure, just a note to say it was great meeting them and the piece is still available.

And don’t forget to reflect for yourself. What worked well? What would you change next time? Keeping a journal of each fair helps you improve and grow.

Do: Keep Showing Up

Not every fair will be a blockbuster, but every one is a building block. The more you show up, the more your confidence and presence grow.

Some collectors need to see you a few times before they make a move. Some curators want to know you’re consistent. Being visible matters as much as being talented.

With each fair, your booth gets stronger, your story gets clearer, and your connections deepen. 

Celebrate your resilience, your growth, and your courage. Putting your work in the world is no small thing. You’re doing it, and that’s huge.

Keep going. You never know who will walk through the next fair’s doors and fall in love with your work.

 Art Fairs Are More Than Sales, They’re Your Stage

Art fairs aren’t just markets, they’re a stage where your story, your style, and your spirit take center spotlight. Every conversation, glance, or moment of eye contact is a chance to connect.

Yes, sales are part of it. But so is being seen, heard, and remembered. You never know who’s watching quietly, gathering courage to say something, or following your journey from afar.

When you participate with intention, kindness, and authenticity, people feel that. You’re not just displaying work. You’re inviting others into your world.

Let go of perfection. Embrace the beautiful, messy, unpredictable joy of showing up as yourself. Art fairs are just one chapter in your creative journey, but a rich one.