This was my second time at Surtex in New York, I got back a few weeks ago and am just recovering from all the post-show follow up!
Surtex is an amazing experience for artists interested in licensing their work. I can not recommend it enough. In this past year I have seen my illustrations on greeting cards, tote bags, pillows, iPad cases, canvas art, journals, planners, desk jotters, art hearts, napkins, temporary tattoos... and the list goes on!
Exhibiting at Surtex has turned my artwork into a real business, for that I am forever grateful. There is nothing I enjoy more than painting, and there is a real interesting side to the art business once you get into it... also, walking into a store and seeing your work printed all over a product is an incredible feeling! :)
Although the show is great, there are a few things to think about:
- First of all, attending the show is quite expensive. Between booth rental, flights and hotels.. be prepared to spend a hefty amount of money. Make sure you are ready for this kind of investment, if so... go for it! I know I would not have been ready for something like this 3 years ago.
- Don't take rejection personally. Many art directors and buyers are looking for very specific images. I am one of the few artist at the show who exclusively paints with watercolors. While many clients may find that appealing, others are specifically looking for vector design or patterns, which has never been my strong point. So what I'm trying to say is, not everyone who stops by your booth will buy your images, sometimes a nice comment is all you'll get, which is not bad either :)
- Make sure you paint the kind of art that can sell. Many painters are great conceptual artists or expressing strong feelings, but when it comes to art licensing, fresh, pretty designs are always in!
It was great seeing everyone again! I don't know if I will be exhibiting every single year, but I will certainly be back!
