Cons and Conferences: What To Know Before You Go
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Art by Analise B!
Ever wondered what the LightBox Expo is like? Join us for some "real talk" about LightBox and how to set yourself up for success at art shows and conventions.
Listen to the episode and check out the show notes
Also, did anyone here make it to LightBox? If so, what was your experience like?
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Lightbox is a fantastic show.
My wife and I went to the first one in 2019 which was outstanding and I can only imagine it's got better. I'm really sad we were not able to make it this year. It's an artists show for artists by artists and you can't beat that. I could certainly see you guys having an SVS booth there.I've been fortunate to have some experience showing at Emerald City Comic Con due to some friends. At first I would help my friend with his booth, then one year he gave me a little space for a day to sell my art. Since then I've shown a few more times with my wife once they reopened after coved. (The new Seattle Center is beautiful by the way)
But there is one thing I would say that can go unmentioned that new comers to showing at a big convention may not think about or hear about much. It's the ability to get into the convention hours before it opens. This is an opportunity you don't want to miss because before the crowds of fans, of which you would typically be a part of, show up you get to mingle and talk with artists in the show. There is a sort of respect people have for each other behind the scenes and in that you can actually find yourself in some amazing one on one or even group discussions with artists you've never met or even artists you have absolutely admired for years. This is incredibly beneficial even if it's just to give you a boost in confidence. For example I got to spend some time talking with Jeremy Bastian and even gave him a copy of my little booklet I was selling. I got to see him chuckle and laugh at it and just gave me some positive reinforcement. I would never have had that opportunity during the show with the crowds going crazy unless I got lucky and caught him on a down moment. Also some of the artists will get little drawing groups going after hours which can be fun as well. It's just a little part of convention life that I've had a taste of that I don't see talked about enough as far as a benefit to showing as a newcomer.
Jake may not recall who I am, but I've had a few little discussions with him years ago in the same way, before the doors opened, when things are quiet and artists and other show runners are mingling about. I'll always remember that because it was just so cool.
Just something I wanted to share from my limited experience showing in a big convention.
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I was there! I thought it was amazing. I maximized my time and jumped from seminar to seminar to seminar, and demo hall in between. I learned an overwhelming amount of new tips and tricks and came away with a wealth of new knowledge. I wish it wasn’t such a huge trip for us to make (coming from Winnipeg Canada and having 2 littles at home), because I would love to go every year. It was such a phenomenal time, being surrounded in so many like minded people and learning from the best in the biz.
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Great podcast gents!
