The Great Art Fair Waiting Game: Between Applications and Acceptance
As the calendar flips and the winter chill settles in, my studio might look quiet, but my computer screen is glowing with applications. This is the season of lists—and I’m not talking about resolutions. I’m talking about the "Dream Circuit."
Every January, I sit down and map out the year. I start marking the shows I’d love to do, and honestly? The list usually gets way longer than my actual schedule (or sanity) could ever handle! But here’s the reality of the art world: it is incredibly competitive.
"One day you're in, and the next day you're out!"
I find myself channeling my best Heidi Klum lately because that’s exactly what the jury process feels like. You put your heart, soul, and best high-res photos out there, and then... you wait. Right now, I’m still in the thick of the application phase, a process that stretches out for months.
It’s a rollercoaster of emotions. Sometimes you’re accepted right away, and other times? The dreaded Waitlist. You just sit there, crossing your fingers and toes, hoping enough people drop out so you can get bumped up and into the show.
Where to Find Me (The Logistics)
I know you want to plan your summer outings, and I want to see you there! Here’s how I’m handling the "Where’s Waldo?" of my art schedule this year:
The Website Events Page: This is my "Source of Truth." I’ll be updating it constantly as the results roll in over the next few months.
Facebook: I do my best to keep my feed updated, but let’s be real—trying to manage every single social media platform feels absolutely bananas.
The "Accepted Only" Rule: I don’t like to post an event until I’ve officially been accepted. I’d hate for you to show up to a park only to find me missing!
Pro Tip: Bookmark my events page and check back every few weeks. That’s where the most accurate info will live.
My 2026 Summer Wishlist
A girl can dream, right? If the "Art Gods" (and the juries) are kind, my goal is to hit a variety of spots across Minnesota:
The Cities: At least one big metro show. (Loring Park for sure! I only know because I won Festival Favorite at Bayfront last year! The prize was a booth at the show but unfortunely it was cancelled this year. This is a sister show and I can’t wait to be there. This will be my first year there! So Excited.)
Central MN: A few local favorites closer to home. (possibly Lemonade Fair, Munsinger- Art fair in the gardens, Millstream, Festi-Fall)
Duluth: I’m crossing my fingers to head back up north again this year! (Park Point)
Thank you all so much for your incredible support while I play this waiting game. It’s your encouragement that keeps me applying, even when the competition is stiff. I can’t wait to share my new work with you under the sun.
See you this summer!
