Friday, September 20, 2013

Caffeine and other things


One of the first things I did after moving to Chicago was to focus on networking. I was in search of art associations and groups in order to find a niche in the Chicago art scene. The opportunities are limitless as I continue to learn about galleries, exhibitions, and professional art groups. 

The first group I connected with was FusedChicago. I had already met several of the encaustic artists in this group from the conference I attended several years ago in Massachussetts. The chair person of Fused Chicago then told me about another local group, the Artist Breakfast Group. The artist breakfast group is a place where I have met art professionals and continue to learn about teaching and exhibit opportunities. The ABG is hosting their annual show next month at the Old Town Art Center and yesterday I had so much fun creating a coffee mug for the exhibit. Each exhibiting artist is required to donate at least 1 mug, proceeds go toward the group's expenses.


I decided to paint the red barn that is also in the painting I am planning on exhibiting. 


October happens to be Chicago Artists Month. Caffeine VII opens October 8, and another exhibition I will have several paintings included is at Jenny Learner's Studio 303, Zhou B Art Center opening October 18. 

Tonight is my artist reception at the Fine Arts building and it is a very busy art weekend with Chicago Art Expo also opening today. I will be visiting the expo tomorrow and will be going with my sponge-like attitude, take it all in and learn. 

7 comments:

  1. It does sound like a very busy weekend! I know your reception will go well. The cup you designed is gorgeous as is the painting you are exhibiting.

    Have a wonderful weekend!

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    1. Thanks, Pam, reception went well and soon off to the Art Expo at Navy Pier, it's a beautiful Saturday and life is good.

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  2. I hope it was a wonderful reception and everything is a learning opportunity--stay spongy. I like your cup; I saw it on Facebook--it's not showing up here on the blog (maybe because I'm on my iPad?).

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    1. "Stay Spongy" should become my new mantra (although I don't have an old mantra). iPad does not work with certain video programs, guess the mug is one of them.

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  3. I hope you post more about that Old Town Art Center exhibit next month. I'd love to make it out to the show. Love your mug.

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    1. It would be fun to meet you Sherry. The Old Town exhibit is on a Sunday afternoon and someone told me last night they thought it was the same day as the Chicago Marathon. If you do come, the show will be excellent - 1 painting (and at least 1 mug for sale) per artist, about 40 amazing artists are in the show.

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  4. Amidst all that lovely green, the red barn looks enchanting and inviting, the composition looks so beautiful Robin! I look forward to you sharing the expo pictures, good luck with the shows!

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