See me at Summerfest!

As the season of shows approaches, a sense of excitement fills my work life. For me, as an artist, this time of year is a cherished opportunity to connect with the public—past patrons and potential new fans alike. My artwork, vibrant and captivating, certainly photographs well, but nothing compares to the experience of standing before others, sharing the emotional pull of memories and the intricate details of my creations.

Right now, my focus is on the first show of the season: Summerfest. It’s hard to believe that I’ll be displaying and selling my artwork at the world’s largest music festival again. It feels surreal, an opportunity that seems straight out of a dream! The fusion of music and art resonates deeply within me, especially with my latest series of mandala dot-painted vinyl albums and my newest venture, painted electric guitars! They’re the perfect embodiment of that synergy.

Preparing for this grand event is no small feat; there’s a whirlwind of tasks awaiting me before I can pack my car and set up my booth. I need to dive into painting and framing my albums, but that’s just the start. A new business card design is on the agenda, one that prominently features my updated website—a major change since last year. I’ve even come up with a clever QR code for the back of the card, ensuring that everyone can access my contact information, social media, and website with just a scan. Isn’t technology amazing?

Last year, I learned my lesson the hard way—I ran out of cards far too quickly and ended up spending a fortune to rush-order more. This time, I’ll be ordering plenty! Additionally, I have to ensure my inventory is listed on my website to streamline the checkout process. Signage is essential too; I want everything to look polished while also tweaking my setup. I’ve decided that in 2025, my approach will be different. I won’t bring as much as I did last year; instead, I will focus on showcasing new items and displaying more on gridwall rather than cluttered tables.

To prepare, I plan to conduct a dry run in my driveway, testing different setups until I find the perfect arrangement. I might even invite a few friends or neighbors to get their feedback. Their perspectives could be invaluable, and the more I can prepare, the smoother everything will go.

Of course, my booth helpers are the unsung heroes of this entire process. Their presence is vital to my success. They engage with visitors, providing initial information about my work before I step in to talk. This approach allows me to connect more deeply with those who show genuine interest, answering questions only I can address. During the slower moments, it’s a joy to spend time with my helpers, sharing laughs and the excitement of sharing my passion with the public. I still have a few days available if you would like to help out!

Before I know it, the festival will be upon me—three long days stretched across three weekends in a row for a total of nine days. It’s a tremendous amount of work, but the thrill of being surrounded by fellow vendors and the vibrant energy of the crowd makes it all worthwhile. I eagerly anticipate reconnecting with returning vendors and forging new friendships along the way.

if you will be in the Milwaukee area June 19-20-21,26-27-28 or July 3-4-5 consider visiting Summerfest for some great music and art. Go to Summerfest.com for deals on entry fees. 

As each show begins, I remind myself that amidst the chaos of preparation, the joy of sharing my art and stories with others is what makes it all truly special. 

Cheryl Anderson
The Dotting Chick