Forget what you hear about the economy – it isn’t slumping if you have a great idea – both in handmade crafts as well as in events and even boutiques. Items made from recycled objects is huge. For instance one shop I frequent has a great display of jewelry made from recycled vintage buttons and another, a California artist I talk to on a regular basis, recycles old vintage library book covers and makes his own journals out of them. Both of which have a thriving business. I myself am working in my own “green” business regarding botanical products that fits many niches and finding the same results as the other artists mentioned.

The point – going along with Bill Ronay’s ideas – is it is all about trends. Artists typically use trends to find ways to make their work marketable. Those who don’t embrace what is going on in the marketplace will either find themselves suffering or possibly close shop sooner than they expect.

The last thing I want to comment on, also on the subject of trends, are the events themselves. The good ones are here to stay as they are able to adapt to changes in the economy as well as having a reputation that will last for years to come. I too am seeing more foodie type festivals, but also more agriculture tourism type events too. Being from Maryland we have many great landscapes from the water to the mountains, but events like farmer’s markets are encouraging more artists to set up shop at their weekly events which draw big crowds as more are supporting local farmers and organic products, local historical farms are hosting festivals that include educational events grouped with local artists exhibiting too. An even bigger surge are wine festivals featuring state made wines as well as local artisan cheeses and combining it with art and crafts too. In other words there are more opportunities for artists and craftsmen to market themselves and their work than in the past. These events are opening the doors to newer consumers and possible new collectors that wouldn’t normally be exposed to the arts as in the past.

I really do see a lot of good things ahead. When it comes to the economy, turn the TV off and just get back into the workshop and keep doing what you love and what you find people loving about you.

Thanks for the article! – Michelle