04/30/2026
Hello visual artists! Are you interested in applying to Fae Fest 2026, but find the prospect a touch intimidating? Would it help to understand how we judge applicants? Look no further! Below are the three categories we use to curate our artists:
1. Quality and Expertise 🎨🖌📿🧶
In this category we are judging the artwork itself. Is the artwork exemplary of its medium? Is it sturdy, and not going to fall apart?
Our board is experienced in a wide range of mediums, and we understand it is necissary to judge illustration differently than jewelry, for example:
- In illustration, we might examine ex*****on, expressiveness, novelty, even the confidence of the linework; we will look through booth pictures to make sure original illustrations are framed.
- In jewelry, we might examine similar qualities, like ex*****on, expressiveness, and novelty, but we will take care to make sure the artist has considered the clasps and general construction. We favor handmade pieces, but do not disqualify artists who design their work and have a production company handle certain aspects of labor.
Each medium requires a nuanced approach! If you have questions about your specific medium, please feel free to comment below!
2. Professionalism 🧱🗿💎📸
We ask for pictures of the artists' booth setup to prove they are serious about their work, as we seek to provide opportunities to individuals who are dedicated to their craft, and individuals who are making their artwork a sustaining part of their life.
While this may be discouraging to less experienced artists, its important to understand that a major motivation for Fae Fest is getting money into the hands of working artists. Last year our artist booths averaged between $500 and $1500 in sales. It falls on us to judge if an artist is capable of utilizing our event to its fullest.
Newer artists, do not despair! It is our policy to offer special consideration to those who share a booth with other artists. This allows those less experienced in vending a chance to be accepted and learn from the experience. Coordinate with your friends to increase your chance of being accepted!
If this is your first show, or if you dont have pictures of your booth setup, we recommed setting up your booth in a well-lit area of your house and taking pictures there!
3. Theme 🧚🏽♀️✨️🔮🐉
We are a fantasy themed event, so we are of course looking for artwork influenced by fantasy, dnd, magic, etc. However, we do not limit our artists to these themes. We love folk art and artwork which has historical or cultural significance; this might look like a stained glass artist who's medium has a rich history as relating to medieval times, or textile artists who's crochet and quilting conveys uniquely goblin-esque energy. If you appreciate fantasy aethetics, there is a good chance we can see it in your work!
👏✨️🌸 Visual artists can learn more about our show and apply to vend at: bit.ly/faefolkart
