You are definitely right about this! These events are not for everyone. Though most creatives are completely capable of following these steps and trying it out, not all people will want to or will enjoy it. Certainly an optimistic view and demeanor is helpful. Standing and trying to smile for hours behind a booth on the days when there aren't as many people as you expected, or when a surprise rainstorm hits are not great. Being extroverted makes it a bit easier, of course, but I know many introverts who are successful at these events because their work really speaks for itself. Not all shows are a smashing success, and not all people want to physically engage with art buyers. That is what agents and art galleries are for no doubt. But for some, art shows are a way to be more flexible with your work and a way to make money on the weekends, as well as a reason to continue to make work. I often get asked WHY I do these shows even after getting legitimate jobs in publishing. Of course it is nice to make a little extra money here and there (my car actually broke down after my most recent show and the show money was used paid for the repairs) but I still do enjoy talking with people who like art and getting out of my studio to engage with people from time to time. That said, I definitely have art friends who are not interested in these types of events!
You are definitely right about this! These events are not for everyone. Though most creatives are completely capable of following these steps and trying it out, not all people will want to or will enjoy it. Certainly an optimistic view and demeanor is helpful. Standing and trying to smile for hours behind a booth on the days when there aren't as many people as you expected, or when a surprise rainstorm hits are not great. Being extroverted makes it a bit easier, of course, but I know many introverts who are successful at these events because their work really speaks for itself. Not all shows are a smashing success, and not all people want to physically engage with art buyers. That is what agents and art galleries are for no doubt. But for some, art shows are a way to be more flexible with your work and a way to make money on the weekends, as well as a reason to continue to make work. I often get asked WHY I do these shows even after getting legitimate jobs in publishing. Of course it is nice to make a little extra money here and there (my car actually broke down after my most recent show and the show money was used paid for the repairs) but I still do enjoy talking with people who like art and getting out of my studio to engage with people from time to time. That said, I definitely have art friends who are not interested in these types of events!