Austin Flea boosts local artists

AUSTIN (KXAN) -  Artists and shoppers flocked to the Austin Flea , a new market for handmade arts and crafts.

"We're just trying to start something neat for the Austin community to promote these local artists, we have so many talented people who live in this city," said organizer Kristen Jacobsen.

Jacobsen and a group of local artists started the Flea back in October. Since then they've had eight markets.

"I think if you do it once a month it's an opportunity for people to come out and spend a little money," said Jacobsen.

Artists said they need that extra income.

"There's nothing more discretionary than jewelry," explained Christine Terrell. She crafts jewelry out of tins.

Terrell said the economy has impacted her business, as with artists nationwide. 

The National Arts Index tracks the health of the US art industry. It set a baseline of 100 in 2000 and hit a high of 103.9 in 2007 It sunk 6 points to 97.7, its lowest point ever, in 2009.

"It's good to get out and have people see a range of your work, not just a few pieces you see online," said Terrell. 

Customers said that face-to-face interaction leads them to spend more.

"It's really nice to have a collection of local artists who get together and sell their wares," said Susan Maxey. "How can you resist when you're talking to the artist that made the thing you're buying?"