Post 400: Artist Emergency Kit

Artist Emergency Kit 

What is an artist emergency kit? A goodie bag of items that an artist will need to have for the multiple, sometimes mini, often drastic emergencies that can come up. Especially when the artist is away from home, away from their art studios, and at the art show or gallery space to drop off their art, only to find something isn't quite right with their artwork. (HORRORS!!) 

Why You Need an Artist Kit

At every single art show that I've attended and volunteered to help with, while checking in the art on drop off day in preparation for an art show, there is usually one artist...often, more than one, where we find there is an issue with their artwork. Seriously, every-single-time. 

An art show calls for specific things in their requirements. Occasionally, additional directions or reminders might come in the form of a final email before the drop off day from the gallery coordinators. Yet, art still arrives with no way to even hang it. No hardware, no wire, no D-Rings, wrong hanging materials for what the gallery's hanging system requires. You name it, we've probably seen it. 

We've seen sides unfinished, saw-tooth hangers, and framing materials in which the artwork fell apart within the "mounting" that was attempted. It is to the point where not much surprises me any more...I say that cautiously, wondering WHAT will happen next. I know...I'm human too, but it is on my Art Show To-Do Checklist - BEFORE I Leave the House to look over my artwork. I should paint that on my front door.

Having an Artist Emergency Kit would help not only me, but potentially another artist for any just-in-case issues. Wait, the point is - YOU make your own!

Case in point. At a recent art check in day, an artist arrived with a large artwork and whomever prepped the artwork for the person, awkwardly used eye-hooks that would not have worked in that gallery. Meanwhile, another artist came in to drop off art while we were discussing the previous artist's dilemma. That second artist said, "Wait! I've got D-Rings in my car! I don't have wire because I used it already..." But that was perfect! Because the gallery did not hang the artwork from the wire, they hung it from the D-Ring.

Off to the car and a few minutes later, the second artist returned with a well-used case and opened it up. Inside were all sorts of knick-knacks that are tools of the trade for artists. The first artist gratefully borrowed the necessary tools and TA-DA! Artwork saved! (artist Asia Anderson is AWESOME!!)

At another gallery, we had an artist's spouse get angry with the art check-in crew (all volunteers, I might add) that WE did not PROVIDE the tools to FIX the artwork for his wife! 

Another time, there was artwork that came in with unfinished sides - a little harder to fix but someone had acrylic black paint...See, why I always post this link - Display?

Oddly enough, I also see artwork come in that isn't even signed. That is something I just don't understand. See Signature

See why not much surprises me any more? My suggestion for this blog post is to organize your own Artist Emergency Kit, customized to suit your specific needs for what you do. And keep that baby in your car all the time! That's your just-in-case case, case in point.

What to Include in Your Kit

The artist could adjust this list for his or her needs of course, but in working at multiple art groups and art delivery (dropoff) and art pickup days, there are several items that are plain must haves.

1. Hanging Supplies
1. D-Rings - 1-, 2-, and 3-hole rings*
2. Metal Offset Clips
3. Picture Hanging Wire*
2. Tools 
1. Ruler
2. Small Level
3. Screwdriver*
4. Pliers
5. Wire Cutter*
6. Or a multi-tool or small tool kit
7. Screws, nails 
3. Personal Use Items
1. Tissues
2. Eye glass cleaner/wipes - can be used to clean glass framed artwork
3. Lip Balm 
4. Misc
1. Push pins
2. Red dots
3. Permanent marker, Sharpie, and/or Pen*
4. Blank Labels with Name, Title, Medium, Size, Price Lines*
5. Blue Tape*
6. Glue 

 *High-priority must have items

A smaller bag or tote of some sort may work for this kit. I've put together one small enough to go under the seat in my car.

Actually there is another type of kit that I suggest for artists to carry, and that is an Artist Go Kit. What I mean by that is an "Artist Go to the Show Kit". You cannot always depend on your art group or another artist for items necessarily - and its quicker if you have your own and know where everything is! 

Artist Go Kit

This kit is more when the artist is attending and displaying at an art show. There are always things that you need extra of or to help tie down the tent from flying away.

Include in your Go Kit:

• Price Cards, Labels, Business Cards
• Red and Black Sharpie
• Tape, Twine, String, Wire, Duct Tape    
• Scissors, Multi-Purpose Tool – screwdriver, hammer, pocketknife        
• Pens, Rubber Bands        
• Zip Ties, Clothespins, Curtain Hangers, Clothesline
• Notebook, Index Cards    
• Sewing Kit, Safety Pins, Measuring Tape    
• Bungee Cords, Bulldog Clips
• Battery Powered Lights    
• Wet Wipes    
• First Aid Kit, Ibuprofen, Chapstick (Hi Suzie! -old joke)
• Small folding Step Stool (collapsible)
• Small folding Chair (collapsible)
• Camera & Batteries   
• Bags - for merch that sells and trash bags (great quick just-in-case rain covers)
• Chargers, Extension Cords
• Tablecloth
• Your own brochure or flyers for your upcoming events    
• Snacks, Drinks, Water - for yourself plus some cash, even smaller bills in case your art show group has a lot of sales paid for with bigger bills. It HAS happened. 
• Demo materials

For this kit, you might want to use a backpack or duffle bag.

So, what do you think of my kit lists? Will you be ready the next time? What would you add to your kit?

Thank you for visiting! I would appreciate it if you Share, Comment, a please Follow My Blog!

This blog post was originally posted on the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog by Donna Liguria on June 11, 2025

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Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Do you need a handmade, original painting for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member? Yes, I do most commissions, so please contact me through this blog, on Facebook, My Website at https://DonnaLiguriaArt.com, or go to Donna Liguria Art on Etsy at https://donnaliguriaart.etsy.com to shop my available Artwork.

Post 399: Fall Art at the Mill 2025, Here I Come!

Fall Art at the Mill 2025, Here I Come! 

What a relief when the waiting is finally over and an artist finally learns their fate after they have entered a Call for Art. ANY call for art. But getting into the Art at the Mill in Milwood, Virginia, which is held in the Burwell Morgan Mill, is an added honor in itself. Typically, about 300 artists and about 1000 artworks are juried into this show, in the Spring and again in the Fall.

Let's take a math break for a second here... If the 300 artists that ARE accepted and each entered 5 artworks, that's 1,500 artworks already. That's not including any artists that were not accepted. Can you imagine jurying this art show??

Art at the Mill is a biannual art Show held at the Burwell-Morgan Mill in the Spring and Fall. The Mill is found at 15 Tannery Lane, Millwood, Virginia in Clarke County. It is a live, working Mill AND one of the largest and best art shows that I have seen in Virginia thus far. 

So, Did Your Painting(s) Get In?

The Art at the Mill Call for Art came in July 7th. So the entry forms is filled in and an artist pays the fee, enters their artwork and makes the notes on their calendars of Notification Date, Art Drop Off Date, Show Dates, Art Reception Date, and the just-in-case-your-art-doesn't-sell Art Pick Up Date. Then the artists settle in to wait. And wait. And wait. Until today, August 8, 2025.

Then Notification Date arrives and the "Woohoos!" or the "Oh Darns!" begin. It is so disappointing when your artwork gets that ArtCall.org Thumbs Down. I know, I've been there too.

But a Thumbs Up Day! YES! AND I got 4 out of my 5 entries in this time - I usually only have gotten in 3 out of 5. Yes, I have my happy dance going! Ok I know, blatant self promo, but I'm an artist. It's what I must do. Here are the four pieces that will now await the art drop off date.

"Art Delivery to the Mill" Acrylic on Canvas 14x14x1.5

I was sitting outside of the Mill during the Spring art show this year and watched many fellow artists walking into the Mill with their art in tow. You walk in and immediately turn right and go up the stairs to deliver your art. Oh, the anticipation and excitement of knowing that you were not only ACCEPTED to this show, but that your art will soon be UP on their walls!

Then the anticipation of the opening day when that gallery link page goes LIVE online and you get to watch if your artwork sells almost in real time!

As I sat out on the picnic tables, I thought, I could paint a picture of this - art delivery day at Art at the Mill. That glorious anticipation of this well known show. The spring version of this day has the trees just beginning to fill in. More on this artwork here

When I first joined the Prince William Art Society, I remember some of the members referencing area art shows. The one show that was often reference was Art at the Mill, in very nearly hushed, reverent tones. Once I saw it, I understood.

"Going for a Run" Acrylic on Canvas 16x20x1.5

Going for a Run I considered calling it The Zoomies as that is a popular designation these days when your dog, cat, horse, or other critters suddenly get a burr up their butt and bolt, like bats out of hell. Horses in water means a great deal of splash so I had to go there.

I've had this vision in my head for quite awhile of a bunch of horses running and I finally fulfilled that vision earlier this year with this painting. The beauty of sky, water, manes flying, showers of water flying...you can almost hear them snorting and squealing.

"Fall Up and Down" Acrylic on Canvas 8x8

I added a smaller artwork to the lineup of entries for this Fall Art at the Mill Show. The name Fall Up and Down is in reference to looking up at the fall leaves on this tree; enjoy them for now because they will be down before long. 

I've done a few versions of looking up a tree trunk, each one different - some have 'find the critter' features. Several have been purchased by art lovers in the USA.

"Ben's Chili Bowl in DC" Acrylic on Canvas 16x20

Ben's Chili Bowl in Washington DC is an established DC landmark. (And I do love a good Virginia and DC landmark if you follow me.) This was painted for an art show I was in with the Prince William Art Society at one point. Prints of the painting have been available on my Etsy page and I get to ship them out occasionally.

Artist or not, you should make the road trip out to Art at the Mill this fall. The show begins on Saturday, September 20 and runs through Sunday, October 5, 2025. It's a beautiful drive with a couple of wineries along the route. A great sandwich can be had at the quaint store across the street from the Mill

And the artist reception is Sunday, September 28 from 2-5 - a GREAT reception too!

For further reading and to see some great pictures of past Art at the Mill Shows see:

Art at the Mill Art Reception May 2025

Delivering Art to Art at the Mill 2025

What's on My Radar this Fall? 2024

Fall Art at the Mill 2024

Art Reception at Art at the Mill 2023

Fall Art at the Mill Art Show - A Nice Drive to Millwood 2023

Art at the Mill and Open Space Arts - Where My Art Is 2023

Art Reception at Art at the Mill 2023

Art at the Mill - Art Drop 2023

Art at the Mill 3 Paintings Accepted! 2023

I guess you can tell I get excited about Art at the Mill. 

Thank you for visiting! I would appreciate it if you Share, Comment, a please Follow My Blog!

_______________________________________

Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Do you need a handmade, original painting for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member? Yes, I do most commissions, so please contact me through this blog, on Facebook, My Website at https://DonnaLiguriaArt.com, or go to Donna Liguria Art on Etsy at https://donnaliguriaart.etsy.com to shop my available Artwork.

Post 398: Artist Pink Hair Club - the Pink Ladies!

Artist Pink Hair Club - the Pink Ladies! 

When I first started running around in artistic circles (usually not literally), I did notice the occasional dyed hair styles and dress styles of some artists - to me, displaying that in fact, they ARE artists. An expression and statement of who they are, with confidence and creativity, a human walking piece of art. Kinda cool, I thought, followed by....Do I dare?

What Brought About the Pink Ladies?

It did cross my mind at some point that there were a lot of artistic folks, perhaps ladies more so than men, that must have wonderful relationships with hair dressers that will help us delve into the blues, the purples, reds, green, the pinks, and the multi colored hair dyes (or extensions). AND for that fun and very cool 'fairy hair' or hair tinsel. That's those glittery strands that are tied to strands of hair giving the person a glittery, sparkly look. Nothing wrong with any of that by any means. 

Not just their hairdressers know for sure any more.

On Saturday, August 2, 2025, several of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) members made the journey to the Bull Run Library in Manassas to pickup their artwork from the recent art show. Bettie Sperty was the show coordinator for this art show featuring multiple PWAS member's art. August 2 was scheduled as the art pickup day, ending this display. (Yet the show lives on until August 31 online...)

Kelly Haneklau, Staci Blanchard and Donna Liguria all showed up at the library to gather our art when we all laughed at each other's pink hair and said, 
"Hey, we're the Pink Ladies!" This is a picture that Bettie took while we were there.

A Colorful Trio. Left to Right: Kelly, Donna, and Staci. Behind the camera: Bettie

Donna Liguria says:

"I've colored my hair for a TON of years - but in a mostly more subtle approach. I've had highlights, red tones including burgundy tones, and I've had blond highlights and went total blond for awhile too. At a point in life, I also had to make a decision of either continue to perm occasionally OR to color. As age does the inevitable gray creep, I went with coloring my hair. (Yeah, I said it out loud.) Only this year has my friend (who happens to be my hair dresser) and I agreed upon bright PINK (inserted) as a previous attempt at dying pink highlights failed. I like the rebellion of the norm. I like color coordinating the pink to what I wear. Self expression, sure. I'm lovin' it. It just feels more artsy!"

Staci Blanchard - the Goddess of Glitter says:

"I chose pink for my hair to cheer me up.  It lightens my mood knowing I have pink hair.  I’m not ready to embrace my grays yet, and I think fun colors is well, fun.  When I was younger I couldn’t do it because of jobs or because I worried too much about what other people thought.  I don’t care so much any longer except to make myself happy however I can."

Bettie Sperty 

We did try to convince Bettie, with her already sparkly, glittery personality and artworks, she should at a minimum do the fairy hair! Of course, Bettie with her typical humor replied that, "Maybe I could foil my own hair with gold leaf." A painter has got to paint, right?

With that in mind, see these posts:

Learning to Gild with Bettie Sperty

Inside the Studio of Bettie Sperty 

PWAS Spotlight Artist Bettie Sperty 

The Artwork of Bettie Sperty, a PWAS Member

Thank you, Bettie for coordinating this show at the Bull Run Library!

A lady went by us when we were taking pictures in the foyer of the library who had this fantastic purple hair that looked great on her - we told her she should join us in on the picture.

Bull Run Library Art Show Still Available

The Bull Run Library is found at 8051 Ashton Avenue and is a wonderful spot for not only the books and digital media, various events and study rooms, but a spot that also includes a makerspace, AND an area in the display art. Artists - it is well worth a trip to the Bull Run Library to get a tour of the makerspace and see all the tools and resources that are open to YOU!

The Prince William Art Society has had member art shows there a couple of times with the latest one running from June through July 2025. As Bettie was taking the art down for pickup, a couple of people stopped to speak to her about the art coming down as well as the new art going up.  One lady was interested in a couple of the artworks from PWAS.

The libraries that we hold art shows in do not handle the art sales of the art. The artist or group on display need to provide a link, a QR Code for any interested party to go to for more information. The PWAS art group has an online art store featuring all of the member art on display at the library's art show.

After a potential buyer has purchased art in the store, the artist can then be notified to work out the art hand off.

Because of ongoing interest in this show, the PWAS Online Art Store, located at  https://www.princewilliamartsociety.com/category/all-products will remain open until August 31. 2025.  The Bull Run Library specific artworks are in the Bull Run Catalog at https://www.princewilliamartsociety.com/category/bull-run-library. We have previously shown art at the Montclair Library in Dumfries and hope to again.

My Fellow Artists...

Ok PWAS and other area artists - post a picture if you are a pink lady, a purple person, a blue or any other colorful artist in the area!

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Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Post 397: Prepare Your Own Art Show Go Bag

Prepare Your Own Art Show Go Bag 

Published July 30, 2025                                                          Updated: July 30, 2025

If you are an artist having your own art show or you are in a group art show, prepare an art show bag for yourself so that you have what you need so that you are ready to start selling art when the show opens! Here's a check list of supplies to have stashed in your show bag.

 

Photo by Zac Meadowcroft on Unsplash 

Being Prepared

You know the drill: There is always that often -frantic- hour or two before an art show begins where every artist scrambles to ensure that their art is up and out, labeled correctly, organized nicely and displayed perfectly by the time the show doors open. AND get their art inventory list updated because at the last minute we decided to bring those few extra artworks. 

It is up to each artist to be as prepared as possible - and on time.

Anticipating the supplies you need before the show is something that should happen BEFORE you even leave the house. Know before hand what the venue provides and what they do not. (Tables, chairs - how many? Maybe I should pack that folding chair just in case.)

Besides the obvious of bringing your artwork, prints and other creatives, there is much more that is needed AND desired, in anticipation of what could be important for last minute fixes or adjustments. Or if something gets broken!

If your are responsible for your own show, the check list is considerably larger as you will need to hang your own art and whether or not the show is indoor or outdoors which has its own challenges and lists. Nonetheless, you or your group MUST have:

• Sales - point of sales equipment, charger, and invoice sheets. 
• Cash - in case you need to make change OR to purchase lunch, or other art! As per typically happens, the first sale of the day starts with a large bill coming in and wiping out the change drawer. It is good to know your art group companions might be able to help you out from their "stash".
  
• Bubblewrap, Paper wrap - wrap artwork with bubbles OUT!
  
• Gift bags to able to package smaller art
  
• Print Rack(s), Gridwalls and all the other paraphernalia that goes with those
  
• And so much more
  

But here is what could be in your art show go bag no matter if a solo or group show:

Art Show Go Bag (ASGB) Supplies You Should Bring to EVERY Show:

• Your Phone/Camera and Batteries
• Chargers, Extension Cords
• Your Business Cards, Brochures
• Invitations or Flyers to your next event
  
• Your Exhibitor Badge or other ID
• Your QR Code for your Website
• Your Name on a Sign or Tablecloth (Branding)
  
• Price List, Inventory of Art
  
• Price Stickers, Red Dot Stickers
  
• Clip Board, Stapler and Staples, Paper/Notebook, Index Cards, Paper Weight
• Pens, Pencils, Rubber Bands, Paper Clips, Calculator
  
• Scotch tape, Masking Tape, Blue Tape, Duct Tape, Glue
  
• Price Cards, Labels - front and back tags for nearly all shows
• Red and Black Sharpie
• Tape, Twine, String, Wire, Wire Cutter, Fishing Line
  
• D-Rings
• Scissors, Multi-Purpose Tool – screwdriver, hammer, pocketknife
• Zip Ties, Clothespins, Curtain Hangers, Clothesline
• Sewing Kit, Safety Pins, Measuring Tape
• Bungee Cords, Bulldog Clips
• Battery Powered Lights
• Wet Wipes, Paper Towels
• Small First Aid Kit (@$%&! paper cut!)
• Small Folding Step Stool
• Umbrella, sunglasses, hat
• Personal Items: Ibuprofen, Chapstick, Tissues, Mirror, Lipstick
  
• Snacks, Drinks, Water, Chocolate
• Trash Bags - these make for quick rain covers for art if needed, as well as a place to put your actual trash
  

An ASGB can be a backpack, a duffel bag, a tote bag or whatever you deem necessary. I'd keep the bag prepped and readjust or resupply it periodically too.

Are you planning on painting/creating while at the show? 

Bring your equipment and an apron so you can do so if space and the venue allows. People love watching people doing what they do.

Good idea to have and know:

• Guest Book - do you have an email list you can build on?
• Know if you have to bring your own chair and a chair cushion 
• Know HOW to use the POS equipment!
  
• The weather forecast!
  

All that said, at every group show I attend, there is always at least one person, or ten, or even someone in the next booth saying, "Hey, do you have __fill in the blank__ I can borrow?" And its always something from the list above.

Can you think of anything else that should be included?

See also: How to Art Show and Lessons Learned After the Art Show 

Another art bag to keep in your car is a small Artist Emergency Kit. That link is coming soon on this blog.

This blog post was authored by Donna Liguria and first published on the PWAS Artistry Spin blog on September 13, 2024

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Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Post 396: Art Show Themes That Make You Go Hmmm

Art Show Themes That Make You Go Hmmm 

Calls for Art are interesting yet contemplative things for an artist. When a call for art shows up in your inbox or you see one in your social media, one of the first things you take note of is the title of the show. One of the next questions (for me at least), is where is it? This blog post looks at some of the perplexing art show themes, titles and other things where artists end up scratching their heads and going, "Hmmm". 

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Now, What Shall We Call Our Art Show?

I do realize of course that art galleries / art spaces need to name their upcoming scheduled art shows something. I could be wrong, but I'm thinking its more for the public's interest and promoting it than for the artist's sake except that how else are you going to refer to it? A call for art / art show name can make it appealing and a curiosity to the public and make it stand out, to even be a memorable event. Understood.

You can't very well name them "January", "February", "March", etc. for a lot of reasons. Many art shows don't sit in exactly those time frames either. So, what's in a name? I suppose a lot.

"Hey, do you remember that art show we did a couple of years ago called 'Coloring the County'?" - Yes, that name works better than saying, "Do you remember that art show we did in May 2022?" AND the name was pretty generic - a vague hint of submitting some colorful artwork... more or less.

And then there are the typical art show names, like "Art in Motion (insert whatever)...", "A Journey Through (insert whatever)...", and "Art Unleashed (insert whatever)...". Hmmmm. I'm thinking bicycling, traveling in my car, and freeing my canvases...

And THEN the questions that must be answered for you to figure out if you can enter the show:

1. Does the time frame work for me - from drop off/pickup and actual show dates?
2. Does the art I have fit the size or medium requirements they are asking for?
3. Does the location work for me - how far away is it? 

Yes, location. As in WHERE the heck IS IT? I come across a lot of art calls online BUT finding out what state or city or even the country the thing is in is absolutely missing. Put out a APB to find that art show! Very often I have to do an internet search to find out WHERE it is! Maybe its me, but I think that's an important thing to PUT ON THE ART CALL. Last I remember, the internet is global.

And finally...

What is the art theme, and what the heckles are they asking for? There are titles I have puzzled over definitely. I don't like the idea of submitting my art to the show and hoping it fits the puzzle.

Photo by Reid Naaykens on Unsplash

Hmmm. Google needs to come up with an art show app to decipher the names of art shows. Does anyone have an app for that?

Is the name actually the theme of art they want you to submit or it is just a generic name of the show? 

"April Showers Bring May Flowers" is rather obvious. "A Sense of Play - Young at Heart" would leave me baffled. Whimsical art maybe?

The art call should spell it all out for you - IN YOUR FACE! I'm talking neon light here in some fancy colors.

Like: 

"OPEN CALL - Landscape"

Ok easy enough there, they want landscapes. K.I.S.S.

"Call for Art Word and Image"

Also pretty easy, they want some kind of image and some text on the art in some manner. Whoever can mix that up in a meaningful and delightful way gets in I presume.

Befuddling Art Show Names 

I can't be the only one here...How many of you have read the title of the art show and thought, "What the heck are they asking for?" And they want you to write up a statement about the art that you submit for it! Including how your artwork reflects that theme. Hmmmm.

I did just come across an art call like this: "Call for Artists - Get ready for the biggest art show of the year! 8' x 8' Small Canvas Art Show". Do you see the problem with that one?

Even "Emerging Artists" shows - hey I'm still emerging. I haven't been doing art all that long. Or are they asking for the spring chickens here?

Sometimes you just must bring out the soapbox (maybe in this instance I should say the pochade box) and say a thing on your mind. Sure, it is good to have an interesting and appealing name for an art show's call for art. But I do like the clarity of a oh, they want THIS kind of art. Just hopefully, I have something that will fit the moniker.

I'd love to hear some art show names that have puzzled you as well. Drop a comment!

As a sidenote, check out this list 1,015 Memorable Exhibition Name Ideas to Spark Curiosity

_______________________________________

Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Do you need a handmade, original painting for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member? Yes, I do most commissions, so please contact me through this blog, on Facebook, My Website at https://DonnaLiguriaArt.com, or go to Donna Liguria Art on Etsy at https://donnaliguriaart.etsy.com to shop my available Artwork.

Post 395: Transporting Art to Art Events, How Do You Roll?

Transporting Art to Art Events, How Do You Roll?

One thing you learn VERY quickly at your first art show, is that you must have a 'system' in place for ease of transport for your artwork to and from your art shows and events and carrying all the items you need without killing yourself. There can be quite a bit of distance between where your vehicle is parked to where the actual setup of the artwork is.

"No One Can Teach Riding So Well As A Horse" in acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas 18x24 by Donna Liguria

Questions to ask yourself:

1. What do I need to carry to this art show?

Good question and it pays to be thorough. Consider first and foremost, what ALL you need to carry, how will you carry it, and how far - from car to setup space. Very important are the sizes of your art pieces you wish to display and the amount of inventory.

What you will use to "carry" everything? Be aware of the total weight, ease of use, and how much space you have in your vehicle, as well as area to actually hang your artwork. Please see Art Show Check List

2. How do you transport unframed art canvases?

Consider shipping supplies - boxes, tape, etc, and acid free supplies and wrapping materials.  What if you do sell the item, how will you package it for the customer?

Another suggestion is to use is white cotton gloves when handling any and all of the artwork itself. Especially if you ate Cheetos on the way to the show.

I've used pillow cases, small blankets or towels, and purchased sheets of felt and sewn them like a large pillow case to protect the art.

An idea that came from a fellow Prince William Art Society member, Nicole Fisher, is this idea on Instagram for double reflective insulation. This idea really looked good too.

Here's a YouTube video on the making of the bag if you can't get to Instagram:

Making bubble bags to transport your artwork in!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quNal9m9wm4

3. How do you transport framed art?

Glass front items, think bubble wrap to protect the frame and glass.

When using bubble wrap with a canvas - put a layer of acid free paper between the artwork and the bubble wrap and ALWAYS put the bubbles AWAY from the artwork to avoid imprinting those little circles on the art.

When I ordered floating frames for some of my artwork, I kept the boxes they came in and once the artwork was installed, I simply put a sheet of archival paper between the front of the artwork and the cardboard.

4. How do you transport art prints?

Depending on the size of the prints, an appropriately sized art portfolio(s) would protect these, or sturdy boxes. I have used those sturdy plastic grocery bags and have cut layers of card board as liners for the bottom and front and back.

Also, do you have the appropriate print stands to display your prints? The typical options are table top or standing print stands.

5. Will you be painting AT the event?

You'll need a portable easel, which usually come with an art supplies drawer area. You'll need a painting surface: art board, canvas and also consider how you will transport a still-wet canvas home. Another consideration is at least a hat if not an attachable umbrella to protect yourself from the sun and glare. 

And something to sit on is not only important for painting at the event, but most locations and shows do not provide anything to sit on at all or only provide 1-2 chairs.

6. Can you carry it all in one trip?

What are some ways to get your artwork, art prints and art merchandise to your art event quickly and easily without breaking your back OR ruining the art? How will you get it from your door to car, to the art event AND if it doesn't sell, reverse transport?

I'm sure many artists can relate that some art events are easier to access than others. Although the Occoquan Arts and Crafts Fair in Occoquan, Virginia is typically an AWESOME place to set up your tent (literally), the getting to and out of the area is the challenge that comes to mind here.

Whether you are in an art group and sharing a booth and/or tent or you are a solo artist, you will need a way to get EVERYTHING you need to that show from tent and artwork to merchandise displays.

BEWARE the HEAT

Hot Cars: Be careful of leaving artwork in a hot car. 

To, from, and during transport protect the artwork to avoid sliding, marking, and ANY damage to your work. Also, be aware that you must protect artwork in a hot car - acrylic paintings or other artwork with a varnish can be damaged in the heat if they are butted face-to-face. Art that sticks to another surface is NOT good. Normally, when packing art in say, your studio, you can package the artwork (of the same size) face-to-face, but add heat to that when transporting, be much more careful. Also, avoid most plastics and non-acid free surfaces, especially in the heat.

BEWARE the BOUNCE

Even in the car or a cart, ensure your artwork, merchandise and displays aren't bouncing, shifting or sliding around without some support or packing material around it.

BEWARE the RAIN

Well that sucks, it started raining. Keep an ear to the weather reports and be prepared for the 'just-in-cases'. As you well know, water and most artwork don't mix. Wind is also another terror. A tarp, plastic trash bags - something must be ready, sometimes in a hurry, to keep the water off. Or bungee cords to anchor and/or strap anything down prone to fly-away.

Some Purchased Ways to Transport Art

Consider the size of the artwork you need to transport before you purchase, as well as the weight of everything you'll need to carry. The big questions are: can you do it in one trip and will you have some muscle (help)? Think WHEELS, baby.

• Collapsible Art Carts (wheels)
  
• Collapsible Art Wagons, Utility Carts (wheels) - these are lifesavers!!
  
• Portfolios
  
• Milk Crates  

  

Some Creative Ideas for the Transport of Art

I'd love to see other people's suggestions for how they effectively move their art without breaking the bank too! Here are a few things I've come across when watching fellow art group members:

• Used Amazon bubble envelopes for smaller works
  
• Craft felt, cut and sewn into various sized "pillow cases"
  
• Sturdy boxes (even Amazon boxes), assorted sizes to fit items
  
• Blankets, towels, pillow cases
• Luggage with wheels
• Various totes, backpack, shoulder straps are beneficial
  

Art Event Must Haves

A great idea at an art event is to have what I call a "Go Kit". In the Go Kit are essential items you wish you had remembered to bring. Please be sure and see Art Shows Check List for what to include in a Go Kit.

Then the Art Show Ends...

We wish we could have sold it all so that there is less to pack back up!
 
Very typically, after a long day at an art show, everyone is understandably ready to just go home. Amazing how fast it will come down as opposed to how long it took to set up sometimes. It is a good idea at this point to have a great way to quickly, yet safely, repack your unsold items. Again, you do not want items to rub against each other or shift while transporting. At a minimum, put something between them and be careful about stacking various sized canvases so you don't further stretch the canvases!
 
I have actually watched in horror -gasp- and seen artists just stack their artwork up and shove it in a bag and toss it in their car! Yikes! Nothing but a cloud of dust as their car departs the parking lot on two wheels and their portrait of "The Scream" looking out the back window. 

Photo by Alexander Krivitskiy on Unsplash

Anyway, I would LOVE to hear your tips, suggestions, ideas or stories about transporting your stuff to the show too! Drop a comment below!
 
A good read: https://fineartviews.com/blog/20870/art-display-systems-for-art-festivals

@2026 Donna Liguria. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited without permission

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Author: Donna Liguria is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings Blog, and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, Virginia. And she takes on the PWAS social media duties as well (help me!) Donna specializes in acrylic painting of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art. 

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*Thank you for visiting! I would appreciate if you Share, Comment, a please Follow My Blog! *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Let me know if you like my paintings and if you need a handmade, original painting for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member. If you want to commission me to do a painting for you, please contact me through this blog, on Facebook, My Website at https://DonnaLiguriaArt.com, or go to Donna Liguria Art on Etsy at https://donnaliguriaart.etsy.com to shop my available Artwork.

Post 394: In the Works - More Morning Glory Flowers!

In the Works - More Morning Glory Flowers!

I'm on a bit of a morning glory kick at the moment as my mini garden blooms this summer. Absolutely, I am loving the summer's gifts of fresh tomatoes and basil, but the daily changes in the whites, pinks, purples, blues, and lavenders in the morning glory flowers get my attention too.

"Oh, what a beautiful morning! Oh, what a beautiful day!*..." At least I don't come out of the house each morning singing at the top of my lungs, much to the appreciation of my neighbors. (Yes, guilty of watching so many musicals, growing up where everyone breaks out in a song.)

These morning glories love the sunrise! Then they get shy once the morning starts aging, falling in upon themselves.  But wait, more will open tomorrow.
Here is what I have painted thus far this summer.

Painting Name: Garden Flower Glories

More practice in the use of the watercolor pencils than anything, I enjoy using these little watercolor treasures since using them in Valerie Larson's class. Basically its a "Draw it and drown it" style with watercolor pencils - I'm loving it. 

Medium: Watercolor Pencils and Acrylic Pens

Size: 9x12 Mixed Media Paper

Edition Year: 2025

Framed?: No

Painting Name: The Morning Glory Climb

This one will have morning glories, they are coming. I promise. I planted the seeds! I played with watercolor markers to see what it would do...not a fan as yet. My yard is tiny living here in Woodbridge, VA. That's fine. Town houses often have tiny yards but I am determined to grow a few things other than weeds.

Even more practice with watercolor pencils and mixed media paper. This might be in preparation for the next one.

Medium: Watercolor Pencils and Acrylic Pens (so far)

Size: 9x12 Mixed Media Paper

Edition Year: 2025

Framed?: No

Updated July 25, 2025 7:39am. See, I said I planted those seeds!

Painting Name: no name so far

Acrylic paintings start off so sadly. Their beginnings are not much to celebrate. His destiny may be more morning glories. That's the plan.

Medium: Acrylic

Size: 12x20 Gallery Wrapped Stretched Canvas

Edition Year: 2025

Framed?: No

Morning Glory Inspiration

Here are some snapshots of my morning inspiration...ok, maybe I am singing a more muted "Oh, what a beautiful morning..." in the backyard in the am, but my neighbors are not usually out that early. The plants don't mind.

Uh oh, something is chewing on my morning glories! Perhaps they like them better than the vegetables though. Choose your battles.

The first of the Morning Glory paintings I've started and he is 4x12 on canvas in acrylics

I didn't realize at the time I had captured this fellow's mug shot.

I may update the paintings as I get them finished up so check back!

*From the movie musical Oklahoma!" sung by Gordon MacRae

Thank you for visiting! I would appreciate it if you Share, Comment, a please Follow My Blog!

_____________________________________

Author: Donna Liguria  is the Blogmaster for Donna's Cave Paintings and the PWAS Artistry Spin Blog and an artist member of the Prince William Art Society (PWAS) in Woodbridge, VA. Donna specializes in acrylic paintings of landscapes, seascapes, historic locations, animals and many subjects. Visit her Website at DonnaLiguriaArt.com and her Donna's Esty site to shop her art.

 *I LOVE reading your comments on my posts! Just remember that the blog comments are monitored so they may not appear right away.

Do you need a handmade, original painting for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member? Yes, I do most commissions, so please contact me through this blog, on Facebook, My Website at https://DonnaLiguriaArt.com, or go to Donna Liguria Art on Etsy at https://donnaliguriaart.etsy.com to shop my available Artwork.