Temescal Farmers' Market in Oakland
I have been told by many that people don't buy art
at farmers' markets because they go there to buy cheap fruits
and vegetables.
I disagree.
A lot of people have a misconception of farmers'
markets. People think farmers' markets sell cheaper fruits and
vegetables. Not true. On-street farmer's markets sell high-end
fruits and vegetables, very often certified organic, priced even
higher than those of Whole Foods Market. You can't stick to organic
food or vegan food and be poor at the same time.
I also enjoy being the one and only artist in the
entire market. There's no competition because all other artists
had already given up before even trying.
Above all, "There is no bad place to show good
art." People who are inclined to see and appreciate art no
matter where they see it. And take my word for it - they do buy
art ! I had proven it at farmers' markets in South Florida in
the 2008-2009 winter season, and I am again doing well, or even
better, at farmers' markets in Northern California.
On one Sunday, I made 7 sales in 4 hours at the
Temescal
Farmers’ Market (4.5 star by Yelp). The first 5 sales were
made in the first hour. That's the beauty of farmers' market compared
to art fairs. Street art fairs always run longer hours mostly
8 or 9 hours, and they go on for 2 or 3 days, but farmers' markets
run only several hours so I can pack up and leave. Also, it doesn't
cost a fortune to get a booth at a farmers' market, whereas art
fairs/festivals can cost a fortune.
What else do I enjoy at farmers' markets? I enjoy
befriending other vendors and also enjoy vendor discounts that
most vendors give to each other. Well-run farmers' markets have
live music, and over all, it's relaxing and fun just to be there.
Thanks to the sales at Temescal,
I am now able to take a little break from my over-working life
that got me a bit ill, which is slowly improving by antibiotics
that was generously given by a local charity clinic.
Hope to see you at farmer's markets !
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with my calendar (Regularly updated)
