ACREs of Opportunity 2009

The International Polymer Clay Association has partnered with The American Craft Retailers Expo to launch ACREs of Opportunity. The objectives are to increase the exposure of high quality craftwork created from polymer clay at the wholesale level and increase the sale of polymer clay work through shops and galleries across the country. The guild also aims to provide a venue for selected polymer artists to move their business to a higher level.

Artists chosen to exhibit at ACRE in the IPCA booth space will be selected by jury. Jurors are intimately familiar with the wholesale market as either an artist, rep, or gallery manager. They will evaluate submitted images on the basis of Craftsmanship, Originality, and Marketability, with the greatest emphasis on the first two criteria. In addition to jury scoring, 5% of the final score will be based on the artist's prior wholesale experience. Prior wholesale experience is not necessary to apply. IPCA reserves the right to have a balance of work represented at the show and may select artists producing work other than jewelry if needed for diversity.

Selected artists' work must be made predominately of polymer clay, be original, and be produced in the United States or Canada. Artists must be members of the International Polymer Clay Association to apply and must not have previously exhibited at a major wholesale show. IPCA will provide a 10 ft. by 15 ft. booth space shared by three selected artists, including pipe and drape, carpeting, and 500 Watts of electricity. Selected artists are responsible for travel, lodging, shipping, displays, and coordinating displays with other artists. Marketing materials are the responsibility of the artists. Mentoring assistance will be available. Entry fee: $35.00. Five images required.