If your art is in the form of hanging ornaments or sculptures, you can create a cage frame display that lets visitors view pieces from the inside or outside.
Start with a basic framed cube the size of your display area. Make the frame by using sturdy boards to build a three-dimensional outline of a cube. Create ladder poles on three of the sides by nailing three or four narrow cross-bars from one side of the frame to another. Place each pole a sufficient distance apart so your artwork can hang between it. Art show patrons will be able to walk around and inside the booth to check out the pieces, which increases the available viewing space.
For artwork that deals in subject matter related to the natural world, rustic easels can add to the atmosphere of the booth. Look for wooden easels in a distressed finish. You can often find cheap versions at thrift stores and garage sales. Place one or two pieces of art in the front of your tent or booth. This lets visitors check out the work before coming all the way into the booth.
Many types of art, including pottery and sculpture, require a flat space for display. For this type of artwork, create a simple shelf display that will show off your pieces to their best advantage. An open-back design allows for easy collapsing and storage. Adjustable heights let you change the display based on the different piece sizes.
For photos, paintings, and other large wall-hanging art, canvas walls are a convenient and elegant way to display work at an art fair. The walls are easy to set up and transport, and they hold paintings in the same way another wall would. To make the biggest impact for your display, limit the number of paintings on each wall to create ample space for viewing. Place other, smaller items in bins for customers to flip through.
For a truly unique art fair experience, make your display part of the art. If you work in recycled materials, for example, you might build a table out of tires, or construct a hanging stand out of metal items welded together. For a more natural look, you can use tree stumps in varying heights. You can also carve shelves out of the wood for smaller items. Choose display materials that will complement your artwork and create a fun, attention-grabbing booth.