participant information

2020 downriver indie art fair

DEADLINE TO APPLY IS BY MIDNIGHT FEBRUARY 2, 2020

The Downriver Council for the Arts (DCA) is accepting vendor applications for our seventh annual Downriver Indie Art Fair. Our event is a three-floor art fest jam-packed into our century old arts center, featuring the work of independent makers, artists & diy’ers. Score some unique finds, treat your taste buds & hear some tunes while supporting the arts! We charge a $3 public admission at the door, with the proceeds helping to send children to art camps at the DCA this summer. 

Since the DCA is a non-profit, all money raised from events like these is put directly into our programming and operating. We feel focusing on the art aspect of the event will help set us apart from the millions of for-profit craft fairs that have popped up everywhere. We wish to remain true to our mission of supporting and promoting artists, and bringing this culture to the Downriver area!


Please read the complete guidelines before submitting application.

We have 3 floors in our 100+ year old building. We will be utilizing all space in our facility, including two gallery spaces and a theater (renovated in 2017). The lower level of the building has most of our resident artist studios and most of them will be opening their studios for this event. The former lower level classroom has been converted into resident artist studios, so all vendors will be in the main area on the lower level. Art will be on display in our galleries and a DJ will be keeping the mood fun! We’ll be including special gifts for the first guests at the opening of the event. Be sure to refer to the email that is sent upon acceptance for more vendor information.

guidelines

  • This is a juried event. The non-refundable jury fee is $10.52. Upon acceptance, you will be expected to pay your $47.00 table fee in full by the deadline or you will forfeit your spot. 

  • Participants are selected based on quality, originality, uniqueness and the price point of their wares. We will do our best to ensure a diverse group of vendors will be showcased as well as place them in different locations within the building. Previous year’s vendors are not automatically accepted. If you are returning, please try to include photos of new or different products. We’re seeking the best individuals who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in DIY handcrafted goods. The DCA wishes to showcase the work of independent artisans — to provide a unique, high quality, hand-crafted alternative to “big box” stores and mass produced goods. 

  • Participants must be 15 years or older, or accompanied by an adult. 

  • It is important to indicate on the application if you need a table. A table and 2 chairs are included.Tables are brought in, so if you don’t mark that you need one, it can not be provided on the day of set-up. Vendors may choose to set up without the table, but you must stay within the designated and assigned space. 

  • There are a very limited number of “double spots” and will be reviewed on a per request basis.Please indicate that you are interested in 2 spots on your application. We will email you with notification if a second spot is available.

  • Participants are allowed to split a table. To apply with a partner, fill out an application for both vendors, indicating which business you are sharing with in the space provided. Include information and photos from all businesses. Submit one jury fee and one table fee.

  • Electrical outlets are available in some spots on a first request basis for a $5 charge.

  • Music is an important part of this event. Upbeat tunes keep the mood fun and light... and the customers happy. While we strive to keep the music at reasonable levels, it is important for everyone to hear it. If you have an issue with the sound, this may not be the right event for you.

  • You are responsible for conducting all sales transactions. You are responsible for registering your small business with the IRS and collecting sales tax (if applicable) for the items you’re selling.

Application Procedure and Jury Fee: Deadline: midnight, sunday, February 2, 2020

  • Complete application by clicking the application button at the end of these guidelines. All applications MUST be completed online.

  • Jury fee is $10.52. You can pay that via the button below.

  • 3-5 good quality digital photos of your wares and/or booth set-up are required to be uploaded at time of application submission. These may be used for press, so represent yourself well.

  • We have a limited number of spaces available, so get your applications in early! If you would like 2 spots, please indicate that on your application. We will contact you with availability.  

  • NOTE: DCA reserves the right to reject any application that is unsuitable or does not meet the guidelines.

upon acceptance: Deadline to pay $47.00 table fee: Friday, February 21, 2020

  • Acceptance emails will be sent on or before February 10, 2020. Included will be instructions and more information about the facility, set-up and event. 

    • Set-up: Beginning at 2pm, Friday, March 6, 2020. Special arrangements can me made to set up Thursday, please contact us. You must arrive by 5pm on Friday or forfeit your table. Special arrangements can be made if you need to arrive before 2pm or after 5pm. You can leave your booth set-up over night, our facility is locked.

    • Take Down: After 6pm, Saturday, March 7, 2020.

  • Table fee is $47. If you require electricity, there is an additional $5.00 fee. You must pay this by the due date or else you forfeit your spot.

  • You can pay this via the button below.

Rights and image reproduction: The DCA reserves the right to photograph/reproduce selected vendors’ work for the purpose of publicity and promotion.

Cancellation Policy: We apologize, but due to the timing of this event, no refunds can be issued. 


2020 Downriver Indie Art Fair

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