I can't beleive that it's the middle of November already, and that I haven't had a moment to write any new ideas or comments on my blog in almost 5 months! It's always been one of those things that I kept meaning to get too, but something that kept getting pushed back down to the bottom of the list. So here goes then!
It was a very different sort of summer this year and not just because of the weather (which was wild and scarey at a few of the shows!!). I did seven this time around and it was a bit of a roller coaster ride for me. Some shows I did extremely well, while others I didn't sell anything really. It seemed that the few shows that were a combination of art and craft together just did not work well for me at all. And also not for most of the other participating artists either. But even so, I had the great fortune to meet so many wonderful artists over the last few months that I consider all the shows to be a success in that respect. Art shows offer artists the opportunity to meet each other, and exchange ideas, technique tips, and also show information, so they are an exceptional way to network.
The general feeling this year though, was that attendance was way down at almost every show, and some seasoned artists even said that this has been the worst year they have ever had in terms of sales and commissions. The advantage for me is that I am so new to this that I don't really have much to compare it too. I actually sold more paintings this year than last, but I only did 4 shows in 2008, as compared to the 7 this year, so that right there gave me an advantage. I guess the one great thing about starting this new carrer in a recession is that for me, it can only get better!
Applications for the 2010 shows are already surfacing, and arriving in my mailbox and I'm already getting excited (and a little overwhelmed) about next year! I've been pouring through my sketchbooks, and photographs, for ideas for next years paintings. I am still so intrigued by old stairways and doorways, as well as old windows, and since I don't have any of those paintings left, it appears that people really like them too, and I need to do some more! New ideas are rushing forward and I have started some already, and hope to have some new and exciting pieces to show in the spring.
Although this may not have been a banner year for anyone really, because of the recession, I still feel so lucky to have been able to show my work and sell a few pieces along the way. It has been hard for most people, and even devastating for some, but the fact that people still came out to the shows and made a point of stopping to chat, even though buying a painting from me or any other artist just wasn't a possibility this year, they still always had kind words of encouragement, and took a moment to appreciate some of the beautiful work that was being shown at these great art shows. And I hope that by doing so, their spirits were lifted a bit and they left the shows feeling a little better and brighter after taking an hour or two to just be surrounded by beautiful things and kind people. I can't speak for other artists, but I do know that I am so thankful that people took the time to visit the shows.
I'd like to also just take a moment to offer my sincere gratitude to all the wonderful people that did purchase some of my paintings and cards over this past year, and to say how truly grateful I am to you all. There is no greater compliment to an artist than to have someone love a painting that much that they want to own it and have it in their home. So, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart!
I am looking forward to a great new year of showing my work and meeting new people, and hopefully seeing old faces too. I know it's a little early for new years wishes, but I probably won't get back into this blog again until after Christmas, so may I please say to anyone who visits my site, that I wish you a safe and happy holiday season, and a new year full of wonder and great things.
Peace,
Robbin
As show dates and times become available for 2010, I will be posting them on this blog.
If you wish to contact me you can do so at innerspiritartworks_byrobbin@yahoo.com
