What the heck is a Wayzgoose?
Traditionally, a wayzgoose was a celebration or feast put on by a master printer for his workmen each year to mark the end of summer and the start of the season of working by candlelight. Nowadays, a wayzgoose is a festival showing prints, handmade books and paper arts, and demonstrating their technologies.
Where is it held?
At the Downtown location of the Ann Arbor District Library at 343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor, Michigan. And at some partner locations.
When is it held?
Annually.
Who organizes it?
A select team of AADL staff.
What types of vendors are accepted?
We accept vendors and artists selling original prints (letterpress, linoblock, wood engraving, screen print — relief and intaglio, etc.), handmade books, and printing supplies (new or used printing or bookbinding equipment and/or letterpress equipment and type). We do not accept any mass market produced products.
When and how do I apply?
There is an application process for potential vendors. The online application opens up annually. After the deadline applications are reviewed by a jury, and vendors are notified of their status a month later. There is no fee for applying, or for being a vendor.
How many vendors do you accept?
Our venue space is limited and we accept around 40-45 vendors each year.
Do you have tips for creating a great application?
Photos! Include a link that has the best images of work you actually plan to sell at the Festival! Make sure the photos are in focus, show the work well, perhaps with a plain background. The jury doesn't hunt around for your images, so including a working link with high quality photos of your work is the best way to let us know what you make! We also take item categories and price points into consideration. Having a focused body of work is a plus. Pick your strongest category of work and apply with that.
What else happens at the library during the Wayzgoose & Printing Festival?
The library is always buzzing with action, and we are indeed open regular hours during the Wayzgoose & Printing Festival! So of course during a busy day we have other things going on. We usually have a few talks and hands-on activities for all ages happening elsewhere in the building.