IsabeauxStudio

In order to be entered into the Emeryville Art Show,  the panel of three jurors made a trip to my studio.  I was working until twenty minutes before their arrival in order to finish.  I had "take-away" sheets ready with pictures of my work, titles, sizes, and other basic info. 

Even though this was a group show, it was my first opportunity at having my work formally shown.  Definitely a realization of a life dream.  Bottom line, to me it was really important and I was really nervous.   

The jurors arrived and I showed them into my studio.  My pieces were leaning up against the wall on the floor,  most were still taped to drawing boards.   In my head I had a mini debate, "do I do a pitch?," or "do I shut up and let the work speak for itself?"   I ended up compromising,  I told them briefly about myself and my work and then promptly shut up.  (Which was hard!)  The only feedback that I got during the whole interaction besides "hmmmm," was a question, "are you a graphic artist?"  Which I am not.

After reviewing my work, the jurors promptly left.  The whole interaction maybe lasted ten minutes.  Next came the hard part, the waiting to hear if I had got in.   Patience is definitely not one of my virtues. Three weeks later I received my response,  and one piece, Transparency of Jellies, was accepted.   I was elated, very proud, and finally on my way!

After finding out that I was accepted, the next part was getting the piece framed.   I don't do framing myself yet.  Though if I start to show my work more I might consider it, as it is a huge expense.   Already I could tell that even if I sold the piece (which I did) that I wouldn't be making any money.   You have the commission of the show which was 25%,  the framing cost as it was outsourced was $150, my materials $125, and my labor.....woof!  You get my point.

I already learned the hard facts about the business end of trying to create and sell art.  I was so conscious of trying to price my piece so it was reachable and ended up pricing my piece too low.

Live and learn. 

The opening of this show was in October 2006.   It was a great week.  During that week I was able to give notice at my evil day job (I had another opportunity) and had the opening for the show.  To top it all off my piece sold on opening day.  Hopefully this was the start of better things to come.