Yesterday I was part of Art Week in Marquette, and it was about demonstrating your art - and I misunderstood and yet I overachieved.
I brought way way too much art compared to the other artists.
We were a small group.
It is a new part of Art Week.
There even was a painting class going on.
There were 4 trees and a lamppost that held the clothesline. The committee envisioned my art in trees along the harbor to bring attention to this space. I believe I achieved that.
Folks came from the end of the harbor, saying they had to come and see what this was about.
It truly was a Pop Up art show in Lower Harbor. Where folks happen upon art in an unexpected way.
I received so many wonderful compliments and brought giggles and joy. A woman just kept saying, these make me so happy!!! It felt good to hear others feel the good energy, joy and humor in my art. The joy I have playing with fabric is clearly understood by those who were drawn to the quilts flapping in the breeze along the harbor.
Part of being an artist is to make others feel something.
I love that my ladies ignite good feelings.
And, I did demonstrate - some of what I do, by machine quilting. It was so nice to be outside sewing. The lighting was perfect, the temperatures amazing - and only a biting fly or two near the end.
It was fun to see the interest of young girls and them sharing with me what they have made.
One quilter was so happy that Quilting was being represented in Art Week.
So, I represented Fiber Arts - I achieved that.
Yesterday was a great reminder that being an artist isn't just about selling or the monetary value of our product. I felt the interest and curiosity others had. I was sharing a process and involving them in my art.
It wasn't about me - it was about my art.
My art has more value than its value.
I hope that a few seeds were planted, that someone felt it was possible to play with fabrics and to toss aside patterns and do some free form sewing.
My daughter came with me - and we had a very nice afternoon by the water. It was a relaxing show for her. I so appreciate her efforts in helping me set up and take down shows, not to mention handling sales.
I am adding this last picture, even though the blog space may contort its clarity. For some reason some pictures don't load correctly.
I love this, the lamppost, the water, the bench, the folks and my quilts.
All in all, it was a great day. I came and represented quilters and artists. I brought what I do and shared a part of the creation process. I made a few new friends and introduced my art to more people.
Success is in the feelings.
It was a gorgeous day in the harbor and we were there for 6.5 hours. In the shade, surrounded by quilts on the line. Boats floating by, bikers biking by and folks walking and having picnics and Artists doing their art.
Perfection.
Art Shows without selling, seem to be the most organic. And, as someone commented, more intimate. We had time to chat and exchange ideas. Time to visit and share our humanity. I felt like I was making so many new friends.
I am glad I had this experience.
To feel and value my art on a different level.
Don't get me wrong, I love when folks buy my art. I love that value too. I love when someone loves it enough to part with their hard earned money. I love being able to support my art with my art.
And yet, it was good to take money off the table and just be with the process and presence of art.
