May 19 & 20, Indianapolis, Indiana
In conjunction with The Broad Ripple Art Fair
In the past year we have been a part of many conversations concerning what are perceived as serious issues in our industry. While we were planning this conference, we began by discussing the “normal” format with Keynotes and other speakers. As discussion continued, it became apparent that the one advantage that NAIA has over other conferences is that we can bring artists and directors together to work on the issues and come up with possible solutions. So, rather than the same old format where all sit for two days listening, do some talking — and, ultimately, little is accomplished — we decided to work on issues. We have selected three primary topics that were narrowed down after talking with both artists and show directors. Though specific formats are being worked out with facilitators, the general agenda will be as follows:
• The Cost of Doing Art Shows – The art show venue is getting more and more expensive for artists to do and they are also getting more expensive to produce. What can artists and shows both do to turn this around? In order to close the gap between two of the primaries in the industry, we will have both artists and show directors discuss costs and explore solutions as to how we can possibly reach middle ground.
• Booth Images – Artists are confused as to why some shows want a booth image and, when they do, what they want or not want in a booth shot. Can we find a mutually agreeable SOLUTION to this issue that doesn’t put an undue burden on artists to have multiple booth shots yet accomplishes what the shows need? Yes, we believe it can happen. We’re intelligent people who can watch, listen, process, and come up with some answers.
• Buy/Sell/Imports/Production – What exactly is the problem? We know there is a negative financial impact these types of vendors have on artists at venues selling hand-made, original arts and crafts. They also impact the public perception of the show. What can artists and show directors do together to identify and eliminate these problems?
This conference will be the first in which artists and directors will work together to identify and discuss issues in the industry then work toward workable solutions during the conference. We see these issues discussed on forums, hear them at shows, and thus far, there are no solutions put forth — until now. Our formats will be such that we will be able to discuss them in many ways, looking at them from many perspectives, then come together with possible solutions toward which we can all work together. It’s going to take all of us to listen and understand the many facets of the issues, then work together in the weeks *after* the conference on the solutions put forward to resolve the issues in our industry.
Be a part of the solution!
Accommodations and Reservations:
The conference will be held at the Embassy Suites Downtown, at 110 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana.
NAIA has arranged special accommodations for our guests who wish to stay at the conference site.
• Room Rates for King or Queen Double are $109.00 per night.
• Rooms are all suites and include pull out sofa in sitting room.
• Full cooked to order breakfast is included in rate
• Free Wi-Fi.
• Parking is a reduced rate of $15 per night in hotel attached garage.
Our block has been set up and individuals can begin calling in to make reservations. We urge all of you to use our host hotel.
Please call 317-236-1800 and ask for reservations. You will then give your arrival and departure date and ask for a room within the Independent Art block. You may also book your room online by visiting:
www.indianapolisdowntown.embassysuites.com and using group code NAI.
Conference Registration
Registration for the conference will be available on our web home page soon.
Early registration is $135 for all participants.
$165 after April 30.
A “meet and greet” cocktail party will take place on Wednesday evening, May 18th, before the conference begins.
Further information on times of Cocktail parties Wednesday and Thursday night, as well as times for the meetings will be available in the next few days.