art show checklist

When I worked as a special events coordinator for a major corporation, I lived by my event checklists. In fact, I’d go as far to say that the show was only as good as the checklist. Now that my events have gone from corporate black ties to local art shows, my checklist is no less vital. Here is a checklist I use for my art shows.

Preparation is key to a successful event. Ideally, you want to go over this list a week in advance to make sure you have all of your supplies way ahead of time. Gather everything the night before and pack up the car. I can’t tell you how many rushed mornings I’ve had running around the house looking for something at the last minute. For example, I have this terrible habit of waiting to get cash the morning of the event, and as luck would have it, the ATM is down that morning at my local bank!

Hope the art show checklist helps you on your next event. Let me know if you’d add anything. Good luck!

  • art: framed, labeled, signed
  • prints: signed, matted, labeled
  • print stand
  • extra labels
  • pen
  • table(s)
  • tablecloth(s)
  • risers for tables
  • signage
  • business cards
  • brochures, flyers
  • point of sale device (Square) and charger
  • phone and charger
  • newsletter sign up sheet or app (check to make sure it is working)
  • wrapping and tissue paper
  • scissors
  • tape
  • hammer/nails
  • pliers
  • demo materials
  • extension cord
  • candy and bowl
  • flowers
  • food and drink for me
  • cash
  • easle
  • bags
  • bubble wrap
  • laptop (check that the slideshow or video is working)
  • hostess gift (if I’m a guest artist at someone else’s studio)

For the PDF:  art show checklist

What do you bring to your events? Leave a comment on what you would add to this list.