Traveling Artists Roadshow Hosts Royal Oak Show

Nine local artists will be selling an assortment of crafty items in the Traveling Artists Roadshow’s fourth show this Saturday in Royal Oak.

The Traveling Artists Roadshow (TARS) is a members-only group working to organize and promote traveling art shows throughout the Metro Detroit area. Each show is hosted at a different location, featuring a wide spectrum of art mediums. Members create and sell handmade items including paintings, jewelry, digital art, clothing creations and more.  

“The economy over the last few years has helped birth many more artists and crafters out of necessity,” said jewelry artist Patricia Spadafore-Fleischman, a member of TARS. “This group will enable many artists the opportunity to be in a show who would not otherwise be able to afford it.”

Because of the recent decline in the economy, many artists are no longer interested in the financial risks associated with traditional art shows. Seeking an affordable alternative, several local crafters formed the TARS group to continue promoting their work while creating an inviting atmosphere for customers.  By hosting shows at homes, churches and other low-cost locations, the group is able to offer a cost-effective alternative for local artists interested in selling their work.

“We want the customer to feel at home. Hang out, have some food, drink and enjoy,” mixed media artist Marsha Filipiak said. 

Large-scale art shows often host a hundred or more artists while attracting thousands of potential patrons. However, high participation fees and low sales have resulted in little to no profits for many local vendors. This new group allows artists to sell their work at various low-risk locations while expanding their customer base.

“It’s fresh and new for us to continually meet people in different cities. And it’s convenient for our customers who don’t have to travel very far to come to our shows,” digital photography artist Felicia Kramer said.

The group formed earlier this summer after a conversation among artist pals revealed that they all shared a want for a more intimate way to sell their work. With nearly 20 participating artists, TARS members said they are optimistic for the future of group and plan to continue expanding.

To encourage its growth, TARS is accepting applications for local artists who are willing to actively contribute to the group’s efforts. Members meet once a month to discuss upcoming sales, venue possibilities, news in the art community and more.

“I would like to see 50-100 members within the next five years,” fabric artist Kathy Jacobi said. “With that many, we can do multiple shows in different geographic areas around Metro Detroit simultaneously.”

The Traveling Artists Roadshow will be open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m this Saturday at 2107 Rochester Road. Also, if you are a Michigan artist interested in more information about joining TARS, send an email to travelingartistsroadshow@yahoo.com