Learn
Create
Sell
WELCOME TO SHOW + SALE
A program for artists with entrepreneurial spirit
Show + Sale is an alumni & student-run and led, non for profit program provided by the AUArts Students’ Association
We are your opportunity as a current AUArts student to sell your work to the public and learn professional development skills! Our program helps BFA, BDes, and MFA students hone their professional skills and provides them with a platform to sell their artwork with confidence. Each academic year we host various professional development programs and one market that culminate in a selling opportunity:
The Winter Market program (8 weeks from Sept-Nov)
At Show + Sale, students don't just sell their art, they learn how to run their own business and market themselves after graduation! Our workshops cover pricing, marketing, and other essential skills you'll need to succeed and are taught by nationally recognized artists, gallerists, and arts professionals. Participants will also receive jury feedback on their artwork and mentorship from the Show + Sale team to help them grow.
At the end of the program we'll celebrate your journey by showcasing your artwork to the public! Our Art Market events attract over 1000+ visitors in-person AND online. During the 2022-2023 academic year our artists took home over $70,000 after commission. With a highly competitive 25% sales commission and a 94% artist selling rate, Show + Sale is one of the most accessible (and lucrative) opportunities in Calgary.
FREE Workshops for AUArts Students
Pricing 101: Digital/Photo Artwork
Discover effective pricing strategies for digital and photo-based artwork, such as digital prints, photographs, stickers, cards, and more. We will also share some great resources for making your own digital prints!
Copyright for Visual Artists
Come join us for an engaging panel discussion on copyright law and artist rights! We will be discussing how copyright works in Canada and how new technologies like social media and AI affect your rights as an artist.
Branding & Marketing for Creatives
Learn the basics of marketing and branding, including why it is important for a creative practice. Whether you are a fine artist, craftsperson, or designer, this workshop will get you thinking about who you are and how to tell your story to your next customer or client.
For all Students
Craving More Workshops?
Can't get enough of our workshops? AUArts students can binge-watch all our Show + Sale entrepreneurship workshops on our Youtube channel year-round. Watch all 6 of our core workshops to earn your program certificate!
What our Show + Sale alumni are saying
Vivian SmithDiving into Show & Sale was such a thrill! Seeing my pieces presented on the digital platform, and then watching them find new homes, was exciting and was confirmation that I am on the right path with my ceramic practice.
BFA graduate 2023
Terri Lemire-WilsonShow and Sale was a supportive and low-risk introduction to markets and personal branding, and it’s something I think every AUArts student should try to take part in.
BDes graduate 2023
Elise Lavalee FindlayAs an emerging artist, the experience of participating in the Show + Sale has boosted my confidence in showcasing both my art and myself professionally. I would encourage all students to participate... it is well worth your time!
BFA graduate 2023