Ok, so maybe that sounds obvious, but sometimes we creatives tend to be introverts.  A great way to avoid being too quiet at your art show is to plan ahead to talk to people.
One way to do that is to make a list of possible conversation topics....ie, the weather, the event activities, observations of the other vendors great work, etc.  The most important conversation point, however, should be stories of your art.  People want to know what inspires you, your process, and why you painted (or made) that certain piece.

So, smile, open up and be friendly!

This is my most important tip!  Meet other artists!  Take the time to walk around the art show, introduce yourself, and exchange business cards.

I met some really awesome and talented people that I may be able to work with in the future.  For example, I met this really cool Pet Portrait Artist, named Gennie Thompson.  She creates fun, colorful pet portraits and also does parties.  You can check out her website here.

So glad I met her, and if I come across someone who wants a pet portrait, I know who to call :)

I hope these tips are helpful to you!!  Please share your how these tips have helped you, or share your own tips in the comments below!

After my first show at CityCentre Houston, I wanted to make some paintings that would reflect the feel of the space of the show.  It feels very much like an urban oasis.  Surrounded by tall office buildings and loft apartments, the upscale shopping area is reminiscent of a downtown park.
With this in mind, I am creating an art series called "Desk Art Originals" currently available exclusively at the art show.   These small 6x6 and 5x7 canvases are made to bring a bit of color and life to your desk :)

You may not know this, but I am a BIG FAN of fantasy!   I love fantasy books, movies and art.  So, I have been quietly learning how to write Elvish Calligraphy, Lord of the Rings style.  :)   

It has been really fun and challenging.  

So, beginning with Oni-con X 2013, Galveston TX - October 25-27, I will be offering Elvish Name Art.  I have gotten some really cool paper, calligraphy pens, and body art pens.  (If you are not familiar with Oni-con, it is an anime convention that my kids dragged me into ;))

I am also working on creating a workbook, Write Anything in Elvish (working title) to help you learn to make your own Elvish Calligraphy Art.  More on this later!

It's raining out.  And cool.  Big change in the weather here in Houston, Texas! 

And, today is Art Market day!  It's going to be a great day!  

The afternoon should be a beautiful, amazing.  

Final push to get everything together, and let go of those things that I didn't get done!

See you at CityCentre Houston :)