My First Rejection Letter...I'm Legit!

"We regret to inform you that we were unable to include you in the 2010 show...Please understand the selection process becomes more difficult as the number and quality of applicants increases.This letter should not be seen as a reflection of your talent bust as a reflection of the level of intense competition this year...we encourage you to apply for next year."

I had no idea that rejection letters could be so supportive and somewhat life affirming! 

They said it would come. Its part of the journey of becoming a selling artist. Just one of those predestined bumps in the road that you prepare yourself for beforehand. Over the last few weeks, I've been sending in applications for the local Fall Arts/crafts Festivals for later this year. Expecting that I would not get into all of them,  I applied to this one, and this one, and this one, and this one.


I've been reading and soaking up all the amazing information in this book, The Handmade Marketplace.  It has a WEALTH of information for people like me with creative biz aspirations.  The book really outlines the process of applying for, getting into, and running a booth at an art/craft show.  It also talks very frankly about the fact that everyone WILL get rejected in the beginning, learn from it and move on.


My rejection letter came yesterday.  I was actually expecting this one.  This is the festival that I applied to on a whim, because it's the biggest most prestigious show in my area.  It was a good exercise to go through the application process. I did have to fake a booth set up pic for them, since I hadnt even done the first festival yet!  They may have not thought that was the best representation for their show - the obvious inept one table set up.  I cringe at this picture now that I have actually done a real tent set up.  No wonder they thew my app out!  Anyway, I am crossing my fingers and saying my prayers for the other applications that are out there right now, being judges and scrutinized.  As much as I expected to NOT get into this last festival, I REALLY WANT to get into the others.  They are a better mix of arts and crafts and more casual, more suited for my style, my artwork, and my level of expertise in festival booth running.

I should know by the end of June, so send some positive thoughts my way!!