Arts Show in Review

The Arts Show Committee of the Chamber of Commerce met May 7 to review all aspects of the 2007 Celebration of the Arts. Based on participant surveys, aesthetics and financial grounds, the show was judged a success.

Missy Jackson, the Event Coordinator reported the results of surveys of both show visitors and show exhibitors. Visitors represented eight states, sixteen percent of whom drove more than three hours to attend, answered a ten question survey. Thirty-one percent were visiting Cedar Key for the first time. Nearly one third of the visitors stayed overnight in Levy County. Twenty-seven per cent learned of the show through print media and seventeen percent thorough online ads.

An artists survey yielded generally positive comments. The artists were particularly enthusiastic about the artists reception, Friday night set-up and the help of local volunteers. Other comments will contribute to improving future shows.

A detailed financial report revealed an increase in income over the 2006 show, with a reserve for a 2008 show $700 greater than in 2007. Furthermore, the cash prizes and purchase award were greater than in 2006. The $10,500 in cash prizes was generated by artist booth fees.

The 2007 show was the third year that the Chamber of Commerce has been the show sponsor. Local businesses supported the show with $10,500 in purchase awards and many donations of food and drink. Furthermore, sixteen individuals assisted the exhibiting artists during set-up and beyond. Event coordinator Missy Jackson was assisted by the Camber of Commerce Arts Show Committee, namely, Chair Doris Hellermann, Judy Duvall, Dottie Grix, Jim Hoy, Bev Ringenberg, and Marsha and Chick Schwartz.