Art shows are one of the most powerful ways to sell your art, but many artists miss out on their full potential by not capturing leads effectively.

In this blog, we’ll break down the step-by-step process of turning art show visitors into loyal customers and how to maximize your sales long after the event ends. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these strategies will help you grow your art business and build lasting relationships with collectors.

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Why Art Shows Are Still the Best Place to Sell Your Art

Despite the rise of online shopping, art shows remain the #1 place to sell art.

Why? Because they allow you to connect with potential buyers in person, showcase your work in a gallery-like setting, and build trust through face-to-face interactions.

However, the real magic happens after the show. By capturing leads and following up effectively, you can turn casual visitors into lifelong customers.

For example, at one show, the artist only made 6,000 in direct sales but generated an additional 6,000 in indirect sales AND generated an additional 30,000 through follow-ups with leads collected at the event.

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Step 1: Capture Leads at the Show

The first step to turning visitors into customers is capturing their contact information. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Create a High-Converting Booth Setup

Your booth should feel like a gallery, not an Instagram wall. Use large, eye-catching pieces as a backdrop and create a space where visitors can immerse themselves in your art world. Place a kiosk, tablet, or notebook where people can leave their information.

2. Offer Value in Exchange for Contact Info

Visitors are more likely to share their details if they get something in return. Offer to:

Send them high-resolution images of the artwork they loved.

Share behind-the-scenes videos or stories about your creative process.

Provide exclusive discounts or early access to new pieces.

3. Use Digital Tools for Lead Capture

While notebooks work, they can be messy and hard to read. Instead, use a digital tool like an iPad with a lead capture app (e.g., "Sign In"). This ensures you get accurate contact information and can easily follow up later.

Step 2: Follow Up Immediately After the Show

The key to turning leads into sales is timely and consistent follow-up. Here’s how to do it:

1. Send Texts Within an Hour of the Show Ending

If you have a visitor’s phone number, send them a personalized text within an hour of the show closing. Reference your conversation and provide any additional information they requested (e.g., a link to a video or high-res image).

2. Follow Up During Multi-Day Shows

For multi-day shows, send follow-up texts:

At the end of each day.
The night before the final day.
On the morning of the final day.

This keeps you top of mind and encourages visitors to return.

3. Continue Follow-Ups After the Show

Don’t stop after the event ends. Send follow-ups:

One week later: Check in and share new content or updates.
One month later: Remind them of your work and offer a special incentive to purchase.

Step 3: Build Long-Term Relationships Through Email

While texting is great for immediate follow-ups, email is the best tool for long-term relationship building.

Here’s how to use it effectively:

Add Leads to an Email Sequence
When you capture a lead, add them to an email sequence that introduces them to your work and story.
For example:
Day 1: Welcome email with a personal introduction.
Day 3: Share a behind-the-scenes video or story.
Day 5: Highlight a popular piece and its inspiration.
Day 7: Offer a special discount or exclusive access to new work.
Use Email to Stay Top of Mind
Regularly send newsletters, updates, and exclusive offers to your email list. The goal is to stay connected and remind potential buyers of your work.
Track Your Email Performance
On average, you should aim to make $1 per month per email subscriber.
If you have 1,000 subscribers, you should generate $1,000 in sales monthly.

Bonus Tips for Art Show Success

Choose the Right Shows: Not all art shows are created equal. Research events that attract your target audience and have a history of strong sales. Look for shows with:

A high concentration of art collectors.
A professional, gallery-like atmosphere.
Positive reviews from other artists.

Engage Visitors in Conversation: Don’t just wait for people to approach you. Start conversations, ask questions, and show genuine interest in their thoughts about your work. This builds trust and makes them more likely to share their contact information.

Use Technology to Your Advantage: If Wi-Fi is unreliable at shows, use offline apps or create a QR code that links to a contact form. However, avoid relying solely on QR codes, as they often have low conversion rates.

Art shows are a goldmine for artists, but the real value lies in capturing leads and following up effectively. By implementing these strategies, you can turn one art show into months (or even years) of sales.