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0800: Arrive to a market full of traders, huddling in a crowd, awaiting the market manager. I managed to get a pitch near the centre of the market, in the middle of the hustle and bustle.
0930: Set up is exhausting! With a little help, we managed to get the stall looking enticing. 0950: Ten minutes before opening, an American tourist pops by to buy some souvenirs for taking back across the pond. Wow! what a start to sell before I've opened. 1000: Market opens - anticipating the mad rush... 1100: Mad rush still being eagerly anticipated... 1230: The wafting scents of tasty food floats across from the other end of the market. Mmmmm... 1400: Friends and family stop by for a morale boost 1530: Uplifted by a late sale. Positive feedback from visitors has given me hope that better trading days are to come. 1700: Time to pack up. According to fellow traders, today has been VERY slow. Whilst frustrating, this is a great relief to me as I look forward to busier days ahead! Whilst selling at market is both tiring and requiring a vast amount of patience, I have to admit that it is one of the most exciting and inspiring things to do. Bring on day 2... The time has nearly arrived. Over the past few months, I've been making preparations for bringing my art work to market; specifically Greenwich market. Not only is this a great venue to showcase and sell my art, but it is one of my personal favourite places to browse on a sunny weekend.
In the build up to this point, I've had to get to grips with so many aspects of market trading. From insurance to lighting, stall design to pricing strategies, it's been a steep learning curve - but fun too! Initially, I thought selling at market was as simple as creating art and selling it - how wrong I was! Trading to a wide range of customers, from eager tourists to browsing locals, is an artform in it's own right. This week, I'll find out just how much of a challenge I am taking on... Keep up to date with my market escapades right here over the next few days... |
Michael gardnerAvid photographer and artist - a head on collision of colour and creativity! Archives
April 2015
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