My First Art Fair Experience | Bellevue Arts Fair
My First Arts Fair Experience: The Bellevue Arts Fair
This past July 25–27, 2025, I had the honor of participating in my very first arts fair — the iconic Bellevue Arts Fair Weekend, an event that brought together over 350 artists and welcomed more than 150,000 visitors to Downtown Bellevue. It was truly surreal to be part of such a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and community.
I exhibited with Cultivate, a collective booth made up of nine incredible local artists, each with their own unique voice and medium. Together, we transformed our shared space into a lively hub of artistry and connection. From delicate blown glass to bold abstract paintings, vibrant portraits to hand-painted leather, our booth offered visitors a refreshing mix of styles that highlighted the strength and diversity of women in the arts.
Since we all have experience showcasing our work at local pop-ups and art walks, we rolled up our sleeves and combined our tents, grid walls, folding tables, and other supplies to create a space that was organized, inviting, and easy to navigate. It was truly a team effort — one that reflected not just our dedication to our craft, but also our commitment to uplifting each other as artists.
I feel deeply grateful to everyone who stopped by to connect with us, share kind words, and support our work. Meeting new collectors who resonated with my art was especially meaningful — every conversation reminded me why I create and affirmed that there is indeed a place for me in the art world.
This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the encouragement of my fellow Cultivate artists, who inspire me daily with their talent and dedication. Together, we showed the power of collaboration and community in an industry that often feels solitary.
As 2026 approaches, I am energized and excited to keep building on this momentum — taking on the challenge of exhibiting at more fairs, meeting new faces, and sharing my passion for art with a wider audience. The Bellevue Arts Fair will forever hold a special place in my journey as an artist, marking the moment I truly stepped into the Art Fair world.