California Art Show Resources, Festival Vendor Opportunities & Artist Life by Lisa Ramos

As a California artist and small business owner, I’m passionate about supporting talented artists, makers, and the art festival community. Below are helpful artist resources, vendor opportunities, and behind-the-scenes blog articles I’ve written to share my journey and support fellow creatives. Together, we can help grow our businesses and inspire one another.

Vendor Opportunities for Art Shows & Festivals in California

Find your next California art show, wine festival, or artisan market with my curated vendor opportunities page. This resource was created from my personal experience exhibiting the MONOLISA handbag and jewelry collection at over 180 events. Each listing links directly to event planners’ websites where artists and entrepreneurs can find vendor applications, booth details, and event updates.

MONOLISA Booth - California Artist Lisa Ramos

Explore California Art Shows & Festivals – 2025 Events Directory

Looking to shop local or discover unique handmade gifts? Explore my directory of over 170+ upcoming 2025 Northern California events, including art & wine festivals, sip & strolls, fine art shows, pop-up markets, craft fairs, holiday shopping events, and local community markets. New events and dates are added weekly—support local artists, enjoy great wine, and find one-of-a-kind treasures.

Inside the Studio: Craft, Process & Personal Stories

Step inside my creative world — from leather and metalwork techniques to the evolving story behind my art. This blog shares not only the tools, process, and behind-the-scenes views of the MONOLISA studio, but also deeply personal stories that have shaped who I am — including my journey through ovarian cancer, pelvic floor dysfunction, and more. It’s a space where artistry and life experience intersect.

Creative Entrepreneur Tips

Learn from Lisa’s experience building a successful handmade brand with practical advice for artists and makers.

Events & Festival Updates

Find details about upcoming art festivals, pop-up shops, and opportunities to meet Lisa and experience MONOLISA in person.

All About Gemstones

Discover the fascinating world of gemstones—exploring their rich history, symbolic meanings, and care tips. Learn how gemstones are thoughtfully incorporated into MONOLISA’s artisan jewelry designs to create timeless, meaningful pieces.

Learn about precious and semi-precious Gemstones, including fascinating facts, popular stone types, and how jewelers use these beautiful elements in their designs.

Jewelry & Handbag Insights: History, Craft & Style

Uncover unique stories, history, and fun facts about jewelry and handbags. From the evolution of accessory trends to surprising artisan techniques, explore what makes these timeless fashion pieces truly special.

Browse All Blogs Articles – Over 75+ articles written by California artist Lisa Ramos, sharing stories, inspiration, and resources for creative entrepreneurs.

Learn from My Journey: Podcast Interviews on Art, Business & Selling at Shows

Featured on the Jewellers Academy Podcast

I’m excited to share my first podcast interview with Jessica Rose, founder of the Jewellers Academy. In this episode, “How to Grow a Jewellery Business Through Fairs and Events ”, I talk about my journey starting MONOLISA, and the lessons I've learned selling my work at art shows.

When I launched my business five years ago, resources on participating in art fairs were limited—so much of what I’ve learned has come from firsthand experience, having now exhibited at over 130 shows. I hope this conversation offers helpful insights to fellow artists and entrepreneurs navigating their own creative paths. A big thank you to Jessica for the opportunity to share my story on the podcast.

Featured on the EM/POWEREDbyWMN Podcast

This year, I stepped away from the studio to speak with Krystal Jugarap, founder of EM/POWEREDbyWMN, about my business journey with MONOLISA. In our conversation, I shared insights on building a handcrafted brand, the unique value of pop-up storefronts, and key lessons I’ve learned about succeeding with face-to-face sales in today’s crowded online marketplace. Thank you to Krystal for the opportunity to share my story on episdoe #54 of the EM/POWEREDbyWMN podcast.

Featured on the Dyslexia Explored Podcast

In recognition of National Dyslexia Awareness Month this October, I was honored to be a guest on the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosted by Darius Namdaran, founder of BulletMap Academy. During our conversation, I share my personal journey with dyslexia, the challenges I’ve faced, and how working with my hands has helped me better understand my learning differences. My hope is that by sharing my story, others navigating similar experiences will feel encouraged and supported. I truly enjoyed the conversation and hope listeners find it meaningful.