Matt Dixon

The artist shares what it takes to run a successful convention stand

What groundwork should traders do?

Visit at least one convention, ideally the one where they’d like to exhibit. This is an opportunity to see how other traders set up their tables, get an idea of the sort of customers who visit, how busy the event is, and to chat with traders and visitors to get their advice and opinions on the event.

When is an artist ready to host a stand?

A consistent presentation is more attractive and easier for visitors to understand and identify with you, than a sales table with a variety of different styles and subjects. If you’re still finding your style, it’s probably better to wait before taking the plunge.

Any preparation advice?

Practise your table setup at home. At the very least get a tablecloth, bed sheet or a length of material to cover your table. Consider investing in some display materials such as picture frames, book stands or small shelves that can sit on your table. Make a clear price list. Your convention will be much easier if you already know how you’ll arrange your display when you arrive.

And what about finances?

Don’t spend too much money on your first event. Some goodquality prints in clean, simple frames standing on a plain table covering is a perfectly acceptable display and it’ll be much easier to turn a profit if you keep your costs low. The same applies to stock. Don’t over-order.

Freelance illustrator and concept artist Matt can be found running stalls at lots of UK conventions.