Tips for 'Exploring Art' in Atlanta

Art Business News, August, 2005 by Susanne Casgar

The second annual Artexpo Atlanta--Sept. 16-18 at the Georgia World Congress Center--will be bigger and better this year, marked by the addition of white walls and some of the finest galleries from the Atlanta Gallery Association.

Many of you--as gallery owners, dealers, framers, manufacturers and designers--will be there as attendees "Exploring Art" this year's show theme. You will be walking the show and looking for all the latest products and trends to take back to your businesses or homes.

Here are some tips that I hope will help you to gain the most from your Artexpo Atlanta 2005 experience:

Plan your visit. Begin by visiting our Web site www.artexpos.com. There, you will be able to register as an attendee, book your hotel room, review the exhibitor list, see the floor plan and read the guide to Atlanta. Be sure to make early hotel reservations so that you can take advantage of special room rates being offered. If you register as a member of the trade before Aug. 15, you will receive complimentary admission to the "Before Party," which will be held on Thursday, Sept. 15, from 6 to 8 p.m., on the exhibit floor. Live entertainment, food and the unveiling of the Atlanta Art Experience Lounge, designed by the world-renowned Robert Idol, are planned for this event.

Manage your time. Review the show map in advance of the show on the Web site (maps will also be available onsite) and determine which exhibitors that you would really like to visit. Then, prioritize your list into categories, so that you are sure not to miss any. And, don't forget to make appointments with the exhibitors on your "A" list.

Visit ABN. We hope you will include us on your "A" list and visit us at Booth# 737.

Sign up for classes. The DECOR Art and Framing School's offerings are truly amazing. For more information and to register, visit www.artandframingschool.com.

Distribute lots of business cards. And, of course, collect lots of business cards so you can expand your world of contacts.

Carry a note pad on which to attach business cards. Make notes on each page so that you don't forget important information about each exhibitor with whom you speak.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Walking around the huge show floors is an arduous task, so be as pragmatic as possible in your dress.

Pick up a bag or "carry all." These are often offered free of charge by exhibitors to collect materials. You may want to go back to your room after the show and go through all that you've gathered to decide who will get a return visit from you the next day. You can also request literature to be sent to you instead of having to carry the handouts.

Take frequent breaks. The lounge designed by Robert Idol will provide a relaxing "oasis" where you'll be able to recharge your batteries and rest your feet.

Be persistent. If a particular booth is very busy, go back to it later in the day, or first thing the next morning, when they probably won't be as busy. This will give you the time to talk and ask the proper questions.

Think outside the box. When considering purchasing new art for your gallery, be willing to consider different artists and different styles, and don't forget to take time to visit the SOLO Pavilion featuring emerging artists. This is one of the most extraordinary features of the show.

Network, network, network. Don't miss an opportunity to speak with industry movers and shakers. Attend all the parties, receptions, hospitality suites and pass out your business cards to everyone. Listen to what they have to say, and share your ideas.

Write your own show report. Then, distribute this to your staff so that they may benefit from your insights and observations.

Avoid the rush. If possible, leave the show about 30 minutes early to avoid the post-show rush. If you've reserved your hotel room early enough, you're probably within walking distance.

Last, but not least, enjoy yourself! You're one of the lucky visitors to one of the most exciting art events in the world.

Hoping to see you in Atlanta,

SUSSANE CASGAR

scasgar@pfpublish.com