Back from Providence
Attended the MJSA Trade Show for Jewelry Making in Providence, RI on Oct. 11,2007.
Volunteered to help SNAG with their booth (deja vu for me) 
and handed out free copies of Metalsmith to attendees and vendors. They only had the recent Exhibition in Print issue available so I had to explain that it was the special issue. I wish I had a copy of the regular version of the magazine to show people too.
It was not very busy that day which made me sad because I could see such a huge potential for this show. Most of the people that were there had also attended the previous day so I was left with more than a few magazines & brochures which I happily handed off to Metalwerx and other school people at the end of the day. I’m sure they will find good homes with their students.
It was nice catching up with people and meeting new ones. Ended the day having a nice dinner with Reactive Metals Studio. Thanks Bill!
I was thinking of ways to increase attendance. Here are my thoughts:
1. Plan the show to coincide with other events. Coordinate exhibitions with the local galleries and museums featuring JEWELRY. The Providence Jewelry Museum and the RISD Museum come to mind. Set up a gallery night with the trolley.
2. Network with schools. RISD is practically across the street from the conference center. It would be the perfect place to hold a symposium about contemporary jewelry. Panel discussions and workshops that could possibly be funded by grants from RISCA or the NEA. Sponsor international artists to participate.
3. Include a weekend for the show instead of having it only during the week while most people are at work or school. Weds/Thursday was tough for many people.
4. Work with the Chamber of Commerce in Providence and RIEDC. Emphasize the convenience of trains to reach the city. Possible special Waterfire event?
5. Display the MJSA Vision Award pieces at the show. (I didn’t see them if they were.)
I’m sure I have more ideas floating around but those are enough to start.
It’s time for me to get back to my bench and start working now that I have new gemstones and inspirations.
S.E. Sarantos
