Arts Marketplace

As an artist at the event, I found the founders to be organized and helpful at every turn. Set-​up and tear-​down were easy and fast. The entry fee was reasonable. The event itself was well attended (Saturday better than Sunday). I sold smaller items (around the $ 30 price point) and was happy with my success. I will do it again.

Held on the weekend of September 8 – 9, this was the first year for the Arts Marketplace, and I’m glad I came upon the flyer for it earlier this week. Held in the same space as the Foundry Holiday Market, the Arts Marketplace has the same vibe: artists ranging from painting and photography to jewelry, clothing, and sculpture. What I liked about this event was that it showcased different artists than most of the art festivals I have been to. I think in the end I only recognized 2 of the vendors. I was happy to see new life breathed into the Rhode Island arts scene. I also found that most of the vendors had more reasonable prices than the Foundry show and other arts fests. I don’t know if this is because they are newer artists or what.
Some of my favorite vendors included the handwoven rugs from Flying Shuttles (made by weavers with intellectual and developmental disabilities) and the wood cutting boards of Michael Gadsby.
I look forward to the 2^nd annual Pawtucket Arts Marketplace next year.