Winter Makers Market 2024
This December, we are thrilled to host our fourth Maker’s Market for creators of all backgrounds, experience levels & mediums. This market will be in conjunction with Agency: Craft in Chicago from the 1970s–80s and Beyond, an exhibition that will explore the development and legacy of Chicago’s high craft movement, highlighting craft as a means for change and a mechanism for expressing agency outside of institutional frameworks. The exhibition will feature over 40 artists and focus on fiber and ceramics, including jewelry, wood, and glass works. The project is presented as part of the citywide initiative Art Design Chicago.
Vendors will have the opportunity to share their own forms of craft in booths dispersed throughout our two gallery spaces. This market will platform emerging & established creators to sell their work, grow their business, and join our community. It will be a celebration of all the forms that art takes!
If you or anyone you know is interested in applying for a booth, please fill out the form here. We are accepting applications through Friday, September 30, 2023.
FAQ for Applicants
Q: When is the market going to be open?
A: The market will be open the weekend of December 14 and 15, 2024. Vendors will set up their booths on Friday, December 13th. The market will take place in the galleries of the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art. It is preferred that vendors participate on both days of the market.
Q: How much does a booth cost?
A: Each booth will cost $150 plus an additional $35 fee for a table rental.
Q: Are there any restrictions for the types of items at the market?
A: Because many of the works of art in the exhibition that will be on view, Agency: Craft in Chicago from the 1970s–80s and Beyond, will be made of fiber, any items of sale that are heavily scented will not be allowed for this market. Additionally, there will be no wall space available for vendors to display their work.
Q: Why do I need to pay for a booth?
A: We have to charge a fee as we are a non-profit organization and must cover the cost of using the space, setup, cleanup, and the salaries of the staff who are organizing the event.
Q: How many booths are available? How big is each booth?
A: There will be about 10 booths available. Each booth will be about 8 feet long and 30 inches wide (banquet sized). Vendors will have the option to rent a table for $35 or they can provide their own.
Q: Do I need to have a point of sale system?
A: Yes, vendors must provide their own point of sale system (Venmo, Square, etc), and they will retain 100% of their profits from the market.
Q: Can two vendors share a booth?
A: Yes, you can split a booth with another vendor. You can apply with someone or UIMA will pair you with another vendor.
Q: Are there sliding scale options to pay for a booth?
A: Yes! We offer sliding scale and payment plan options to cover booth and table rental fees.
Q: Who can I reach out to with questions about the market and application process?
A: Please reach out to our Marketing Consultant, Alex Senycia, at alex@uima-chicago.org with any questions or concerns.