This question is for all who either exhibit or attend carving shows.  Do you think the attendance or number of exhibitors in the shows you participate in, are increasing or declining?  What do you contribute this to?

The Columbus Chippers had to cancel their annual carving show well before the current economic slowdown occured.  This cancelation has continued for several years now, and is because of a lack of attendence, and a general absence of new willing members.  Don't know why attendance was down, maybe because of all the other competition for folks time.  On any given weekend there are tons of events that one can attend.  I have, however noticed that the carving shows that are still going and going strong are organized and conducted by someone who is almost fanatical about the show and its organization.  I still think that if a local carving show was promoted properly it will generate the necessary attendance of both participants and attendees.  A properly promoted carving show is one that has year long events and publicity that all is focused on the annual show.

 

Perhaps (hopefully) someone will respond with ideas of how to properly promote a carving show, so that they can be compiled into a list.

Tom, I think you are right about a club having to promote themselves and their show, year round.  The club I belong to is involved in different events all year long, demonstrating our craft and just being visible to the public.  There is a lot of competition for peoples time also.  We just have to make it more appealing than the other things being offered, to bring the people out to the show.