“If you build it they will come.”
–Field of Dreams
Setting up on day one was exciting. Seeing all the hard work come together up and down the block was exhilarating!
Have you ever worked steadily towards a goal, and then it comes to fruition, and it's incredible? That's what happened last weekend at the Warren Court Art Walk. Sybil Archibald, Wendy Bellermman, and I built a field of dreams on my street. There were artist's booths lined up and down my entire block with a steady and comfortable crowd of happy, delighted, and engaged attendees. The artists had a fantastic time. The weather was beautiful, and the feeling of excitement was palpable. I am fully vaccinated and enjoyed some delicious hugs after a long time of no hugs.
I met many friendly new people, saw my social media peeps old and new, reconnected with many I hadn't seen in over a year and some I hadn't seen in many years. I'm grateful my dear friend, Glenn Healy, who I met back in art school, came to help me for the weekend. He has also been my drummer for years. If you've been to one of my shows, you've probably seen him behind the kit. My cousin, Geoff Kraus, was visiting from Seattle and generously played live music on Sunday. I feel overwhelming appreciation that my friends and family are so supportive. I was grateful to share my work and connect with so many people. I know those that took a piece of my work home with them will continue to feel the joy and connectedness of that day every time they look at their artwork.
Several new Wild Cherry Art pieces were created for the Art Walk.
A woman who subscribes to my newsletter told me how much she enjoys reading my blog. She said it came one dreary day and lifted her spirits so much she wanted to bring me flowers to thank me. This warmed my heart and made all the work I put into my blog posts worthwhile. I appreciate you taking the time to read, and I hope you're enjoying it too.
I do like to share tidbits of wisdom with you that I've gained along my journey. Here is how to pull off an art show on your block:
Start before you're ready
Assemble a great team
Check with the town regarding permits and regulations
Create a task list and assign the tasks
Select the date
Kindly ask your neighbors to donate their front lawns
Curate the artists
Create some snazzy graphics
Set up an FAQ and some forms for the artists
Write a press release and distribute it to news outlets
Promote on social media and mailing lists
Create and prepare next-level artwork and booth
Set up, have a great event, offer work to excited customers
Deliver paintings to new collectors
Deliver gifts to neighbors who provided their front yards
Have fun doing every bit of it and own it when it's a success!
Practice gratitude for yourself, your community and for fellow artists.
If you missed the Art Walk, please book a studio visit. I’d love to connect with you and share.
Thank you very much for coming to those who attended the Art Walk and made it so awesome. If you didn't make it, schedule a studio visit. I'd love to see you and show you what you missed and if you'd like I'll give you a big hug.
Have a fantastic couple of weeks!
Love,
Leslie