ArtHop is a very special event held in downtown Fresno every first and third Thursday of the month. It was created by the Fresno Arts Council, who wanted a free public event for everyone in the Central Valley to share their art. Not only does it showcase the arts to the community, but it also helps people who have small side hustles like us. While we’re still new to the scene, we recognize its potential to expand our art businesses.
But beyond that, ArtHop is not only a great place for small businesses to sell their arts and crafts, it’s a great place to make friendships and network among other vendors and attendees alike.
During ArtHop, we had the opportunity to talk to various vendors, ranging from small side hustles to established businesses.
Alissa’s first ArtHop was October 2023, and she sells crochet items, hand-made jewelry, jewelry boxes, stickers, and eye-catching trinkets. Since starting, she has noticed the growth of her art page, little by little, each month. She first heard about ArtHop through friends and was drawn to sell by the super robust environment with a diverse group of people.
Another vendor, She, like Alissa, heard about ArtHop from friends at tattoo shops and was indecisive about showing her art, but her friend gave her the courage to just do it. She’s goal is to share her art with the community, “but it’s nice to have a dollar in my pocket though.”
When She just started, she only had a table showing a couple of art pieces, but grew over time to a wall full of canvases. Because of ArtHop, She has met so many people and has been offered to work at other art shows.
Whether big or small, all shared a common sentiment: ArtHop is more than just a block party, it’s a place to have a good time and make friendships.
You can find Alissa @groovystuidoo and She @sheonherjob on Instagram.
