Show Scheduling, Success!

"Pathway", 24 x 18 encaustic image transfer

This is the first encaustic painting I did for the "Pathways and Transitions" series.

Earlier this year I started the process of searching for a new gallery venue that would allow me to show the body of work I developed when I was in graduate school. Initially I had chosen two potential galleries that were both a "notch up" from the local venues I had shown my work in the past. I also had a few more possibilities to pursue if these two galleries rejected me. About a month after I sent in my proposals the first gallery thanked me for my application, wrote about how beautiful my paintings were, and proceeded to suggest where I might want to pursue showing my work. It was one of those letters that you read and have to think about whether you are being rejected or not because the praise you receive doesn't match with the concept of rejection. In my heart I knew this gallery was probably not a good match for me and my work because it was more focused on contemporary abstract art but I figured I had nothing to loose by sending in my proposal. I also think it's a good practice to put together show proposals because it helps to focus on what you are trying to do as an artist, and what makes for a strong body of work.

The second proposal I sent had a March 1 deadline with a notification date of early May. When I still had not heard anything at the end of May I sent an email to check on the status of my application and I was told the committee that decided on show schedules had not met yet and that I would hear by the end of June. This second venue was a gallery connected to a local art association and they had a curating committee to determine their show schedule for the following year. I knew I was ready to show my work this year but it is typical to plan out shows a year (or two) ahead of time.

Patience is a virtue.

June went by, then July, and finally in August I received word that I was accepted to hold a solo show next year. I am relieved, excited, and so pleased that The Willow Community Gallery (part of the Lynn Arts Association) will be hosting my show, "Pathways and Transitions". I feel so fortunate that this was one of my top choices although my show date is not until the end of 2011. My only concern now is that I could sell key paintings between now and end of next year... that should be my biggest problem!

slide show of the series, "Pathways and Transitions"