My friends let me hang artwork and prints around their house.
Jean, my friend's mom, purchased a print. Fortunately, I had made this print as an afterthought before running out the door.
The best part of the whole evening was meeting all these wonderful women, who wanted to support and help me however they could.
Not wanting to take over the clothing party, I tried not to tackle people and drag them over to my art as they walked in the door. After all, I did realized it was a Cabi party. I had prepared an art survey and left it nonchalantly on the table by my prints. The party started off slowly and most were interested in trying on clothes, of course. Then, my new Cabi friend, Michelle, grabbed my survey and made people start filling it out. It just sparked so much art conversation, and I was able to open up to people and they with me. We talked about art in their homes and colors they like. Some signed up to receive my "someday" quarterly newsletter. My landscape paintings triggered a commission from another friend.
Another new friend, Lori from Dog Squad gave me a lot of invaluable advice. She had left her day job 8 years ago, when she developed a line of little dog clothing. See Charlie here modeling a couple of outfits at the party. Everyone was trying on clothes!
Another very important thing I learned was that all people like different things. I had one person who liked the serene landscapes and another who was drawn to the dark and brightest prints. It was great to have them really look at my work as a whole and give me feedback. It was the best evening ever!
Another growing pain as a developing artist is to put yourself out there! Check. I had so much fun, I'm thinking of doing a wine/cheese at my house before the holidays. If you would like join us for Sneak Peek Friday, just visit Jennifer at "In the Studio" and give it a try.
10 comments:
Oh how fun! Sounds like a really great opportunity! Sometimes the feedback we can get is just as valuable as an actual sale. So happy to hear you received both!! :)
What a fantastic evening! Thank you so much for sharing this post. Diana, watching you grow in your journey is such an inspiration. :)) Oh..and kudos to you for casually placing that survey out..that was a stroke of BRILLIANCE! Congrats on the sale too! Have a great weekend!
It sounds like everyone had a good time. YAY on your sale! I just found your blog today and plan to browse a little more...your artwork is wonderful!
diana, what a wonderful idea and how great for you to get feedback on your artwork. i just know the doggy prints will sell, sell, sell!
congrats on your sale, you are on your way. i'm excited that i'll have the honor of meeting you and having coffee some day...cafe zinc?? xoxo
What a lovely idea and the better part is the new connections made. tgis is the way...small baby steps. Enjoy your flight!
Thank you so much for your sweet comment on my blog!
Sounds like a terrific night filled with new inspiration and people. Your art is beautiful. Congratulations on your sale and commission...that's a great idea to have a holiday art sale. xo
Hi Diana,
I would be curious to know what your art survey revealed. I am in the same boat with trying to figure out what's hot and what's not. I've put a survey on my blog before and couldn't get anyone to fill it out. What a great idea having the survey at a party. Your art is beautiful! Congratulations on selling a print. Yay!
Thanks for stopping by Art Walk Friday and leaving a comment. : )
Diana, this sounds wonderful!! I think you did a very important step - going out there and talk to people,get their feedback. Wow, you're one brave woman! I like the wine/cheese idea! I always wanted to do a Open House and NEVER do it. I'm the number one procrastinator. However, reading your post is very inspiring.
What a fabulous idea and experience. Your art is brilliant, and I'm glad you are putting it out there. It sounds like it was a huge success! It is exciting to receive feedback because so much of what we do is alone. At least, in my experience. Yay! Keep putting it out there! You have a gift to share with the world. The wine and cheese is a GREAT idea. I hope I can borrow it someday for my own art showing!
Diana,
I am so glad that you blogged about this experience. It all takes courage doesn't it. I love connecting this way with others who are stepping out. Thanks so much for sharing!
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