Artist Support Is a Priority How Fees Are Determined for This Show
Photos courtesy of Nancy Williams for Webster Arts Fair
Application and booth fees are determined through a combination of operational costs, artist feedback, and the overall scale of the show. When establishing our current pricing, we researched comparable juried art fairs with similar numbers of participating artists and attendance levels.
In addition, the Webster Arts Fair — now in its 23rd year — conducts post-event surveys after every fair. Artist feedback regarding expenses, sales, and overall value plays a significant role in our decision-making, allowing us to maintain fees that are both fair and sustainable for artists.
We formally review booth fees approximately every three years. Since 2018, booth fees have increased only once. While we have not decreased fees during that period, artist feedback is consistently reviewed and remains a key factor in evaluating whether adjustments — up or down — are warranted.
There are no additional costs for artists participating in the Webster Arts Fair. Parking, electricity, and other basic services are provided at no extra charge.
We are not able to provide Wi-Fi, as the fair is held on a rented field and does not have an existing internet infrastructure available to us.
For lodging, Webster University is located directly across the street from the fairgrounds. Through a partnership with the university, we are able to offer artists dorm-style housing at a rate of approximately $40 to $45 per night.
Consistent artist feedback highlights the level of care and attention they receive at the Webster Arts Fair. Prior to the event, all official communication takes place through ZAPP, while also providing artists with direct contact information for our team.
During the fair, we use a dedicated text messaging service so artists can easily request booth sitters or assistance with any issues that arise. The show director also makes a point of personally visiting each artist’s booth over the course of the weekend.
After the fair, artists are invited to complete a post-event survey through ZAPP. We review this feedback carefully and use it to make adjustments and improvements year over year.
Artist support is a core priority for the Webster Arts Fair. Artists are able to load-in and load-out directly at their booths, and volunteers are available to assist with setup, takedown, and troubleshooting, including electrical needs.
We provide free parking, booth sitters throughout the weekend, a private air-conditioned artists’ space with restrooms, and scheduled meals. Artists receive meals on Friday and Saturday, an awards brunch on Sunday, snacks and water refills throughout the weekend, and a complimentary water bottle upon arrival. Additional amenities include a free yoga class and six juried artist awards.
Artists may request booth sitters in multiple ways. All artists are given a dedicated phone number for texting questions or requests, and volunteer field ambassadors also check in with artists regularly throughout the weekend. Artists may ask any volunteer on-site for assistance, and a booth sitter is provided as quickly as possible.
Friday and Saturday meals are delivered directly to artists’ booths via golf carts. Artists preselect either vegetarian or meat options, typically consisting of sandwiches, chips, and dessert.
On Sunday, artists are invited to a buffet-style awards brunch featuring items such as casseroles, pastries, fruit, and beverages. The private, air-conditioned restrooms and break room are located conveniently near the artists’ tents. Six artist awards are presented as part of the Sunday brunch.
Our goal is to create an environment where artists feel respected, supported, and valued. By listening to feedback and continually refining our practices, we strive to make the Webster Arts Fair a positive and rewarding experience for every participating artist.