Talking to people?

I love painting but I find it hard to sell. My mind sometimes goes into panic mode and I say strange things instead of pleasantries. I can hear my voice coming out with odd comments, about someone’s walking stick, or immesaying I will discount the price of a print when they have barely looked at it. Today was odd and difficult. It’s been a long time since I have had to talk to people about my art. I was not fluent with my thoughts. I was nervous, sometimes tounge tied. As the number of people increased it got worse. My throat got dry. I wanted to talk but I just stayed silent. It was better towards the end, but I’m an artist not a saleswoman. Anxiety and covid make it harder.

My stall

Lots of small and tiny paintings, jewellery and prints were also for sale today at the exhibition. The ginger cat at the front centre found a new home. I was only charging a small amount so it was good to sell a few. I even discounted them more. Sometimes you need space to create new things.

Today’s exhibition

Two boards I had paintings on today. I also had a table with small paintings, jewellery and prints. I sold a few pieces which was good and I think I got a good reception from people. Overall most people in the group seemed to have a good day. It was quite busy all day from when we opened to the last few minutes. It was also good chatting with artists and finding out bit more about their work. I’m tired but happy.

Jay painting

When you have problems with shaking it’s difficult to paint details. This canvas is about 2 inches by 3 inches and the Jay in the central window pane is less than an inch high. I tried hard to paint the details. I think I did OK but it’s not perfect. But hopefully it will be a nice little gift…

Where have I been?

Getting ready for the exhibition tomorrow. Painting, adding wires to the back of the paintings. Retouching edges of canvases where I missed bits of paint (painting edges is called ‘gallery wrapping’).

The exhibition and sale is only for one day so I want to make it as good as I can. I have other small paintings to take plus cards and jewellery. I hope I actually sell something.

Experiment

Small canvas, about two inches by three. It’s meant to be a window with a rusty frame. Frosty window panes. I’m going to add branches and maybe a bird like a Jay. The texture has been done with a pallette knife. I don’t usually use these but I was given a set at Christmas. I’m waiting for it to dry so I can add more to it.

Planter

I painted this wooden planter last year? I think. Its been on display with other artists works. It was one of several planters that were done for something called BID. But I really want it back. At this rate it will be too late to plant it up. It’s based on the Pottery called Goss Works, or the Falcon Works, in Stoke, Stoke-on-Trent.