Welcome prospective vendors! We’re glad you’re interested in vending at Art Squared. Please read these FAQs and the following Rules and Regulations CAREFULLY. Most of your questions will probably be answered here, but in case they aren’t, feel free to drop us a line! Once you’ve read everything, fill out a New Vendor Application and submit it, along with three (3) images (or your artistic representation on a website or social media), along with the $10 application fee.
PLEASE NOTE: Applications for the Spring/Summer Art Squared Season are now closed! New vendors can apply beginning July 1st and ending on August 15th to be considered for the Fall/Winter Market Season (August-December). Beginning in 2025, vendors can apply for the Spring/Summer season beginning January 1st and ending on Feburary 15th.
Your application will be juried and you’ll hear back from us within 1-2 weeks. Once accepted, you may attend the market any month that you wish, March-December.
Vendors are not required to participate in a certain amount of markets throughout the year. Vendors who participate in at least one market during a calendar year will automatically be bumped onto the approved vendor list for the next calendar year.
FAQs
Where does this event take place?
It takes place on the Square in downtown San Marcos, Texas, 150 E. Hopkins St.
When is the event scheduled?
The Arts Market is scheduled on the 2nd Saturday of each month March - December from 9am – 4pm (or 9am - 2pm in July and August). We are very strict that you do not break down before the end of the market. We have informed the public of our hours, and we need to honor them.
Can anyone become a vendor at the market?
No. Art Squared is a juried arts market. Artists working in ceramics, glass, graphics/printmaking, metalwork, photography, wood, drawing,/pastels, jewelry (ornamental/costume), jewelry (precious metals), sculpture, fiber/textiles/batik, fiber (wearables), leather, painting (oil/acrylic), painting (watercolor), upcycle and recycle, and mixed media are all represented.
Where do I park?
You can park at the courthouse when you are unloading, but we ask that you move your vehicle to another spot away from the courthouse during the event. This will help to open up parking spaces for visitors. After the event you can move back to load. Parking is on a "first come basis" downtown. Art Squared Arts Market does not have a designated parking area for vendors. For questions about parking, see Market Director or Art League assistant in the Information Booth.
Can I apply to be a vendor at any time?
Yes. You may apply to be a vendor at any time throughout the year. Once approved, you can sign up for one event or multiple dates at once. All vendors are required to exhibit at least once before they are given the option to reserve multiple dates. Vendor fees must be received by deadline before each monthly event, which is always the Wednesday prior.
What if I have to cancel?
You must notify us by email artsquaredsmtx@gmail.com prior to the event that you will not exhibit as planned. If prior notification of cancellation is received, your booth fee will transfer to the NEXT market only. If you must cancel a December show, then your booth fee will not transfer to the following year.
“No-shows” are highly discouraged, and fees are not refundable for no-shows.
Do I need to complete an application each time I want to exhibit?
Once you are approved your information is kept on file. You only need to apply one time. Should you wish to participate in future market events you simply register for that market and pay the booth fee.
I'm an approved vendor - How do I sign up?
If you have submitted your application and have been approved by our jury, simply pay for your booth fee each month, no later than the Wednesday prior to the event.
What is the cost?
The cost for a vendor space is $45. SMAL annual membership is $35 (www.artleaguesmtx.org). There is a $10 application fee for all NEW vendor applicants. Please pay via the website (www.artsquaredmarket.com).
PLEASE NOTE: Fees paid online are subject to a small convenience fee to help cover costs.
How do I pay?
You may pay through this website only. Payments must be received by the Wednesday prior to the event date.
I would like to share a booth with someone. Can I do that?
Yes. Up to two artists may share a booth. Both vendors must go through the application process as individual artists. Once each artist is approved based on their own merit, they will pay the booth fee like normal monthly. Artists splitting a booth are responsible for splitting the payment amongst themselves.
Why do I need to fill out an application?
All artists need to complete the application process, including certification that you have read and agree to the Rules and Regulations and these FAQs. There is a $10 non-refundable application fee for all new applicants.
I'm an artist - can I just show up the day of the event?
No. Unfortunately, you will be turned away. All artists MUST complete an application, pay the $10 application fee, and go through the jury process. Once approved, the vendor must pay for their space no later than the Wednesday prior to the event.
Do I need a table/chairs?
Yes. Art Squared will NOT have table/chairs available. Additionally, all vendors must have a tent. White tents are recommended. All spaces should be well kept and look presentable for the public. Please see Rules and Regulations for more information. All tables must have a table covering that reaches to the ground. This hides your storage items and projects a professional appearance.
Do you provide electricity?
No. There are limited number of outlets on-site, but we cannot guarantee they will work or that they will be available.
Will there be food available?
Yes. A few food vendors are usually on site, as well as the Farmer’s Market. You are also encouraged to eat at some of the local restaurants within walking distance of the courthouse. There are many eateries to choose from. If you wish to become a food vendor, please visit that section of the website.
What happens if there is inclement weather?
The Art Squared Planning Committee will cancel the market in the event of dangerous weather conditions. The decision to do so will be made by 6pm the Friday before the event. An email will go out to all participating vendors and also posted on all social media outlets. In this scenario, all vendor fees will be credited towards the next scheduled market.
Can I bring my dog?
Having pets in vendor tents is discouraged. If you choose to bring your pet anyway, it must be leashed or otherwise constrained at all times. You must come prepared to clean up any messes that your dog makes. Your pet’s behavior is your responsibility. If there is an altercation between your pet and a customer’s pet, you will be asked not to bring your pet in the future.
Can I have any spot I choose?
Currently the Arts Market is on a "first come" basis. You can set up as early as 7:30am but no later than 9am. We will do our best to accommodate your needs, however, the market director reserves the right to place vendors around the square to maximize exposure and to minimize similar vendors from being too close to one another.