Sketchbook Page

As a person who rarely participates in showing work at arts festivals, I find the culture of artists who do frequently take part in these events to be fascinating. Like gypsies in a traveling show, these artists take on the art fair circuit as pros. They put up their walls and wares with ease, knowing to the minute, exactly how long set-up will take. They have fancy lights that will always work – even when a venue provides no light because they carry their own car battery for power. These artists’ cars have shelves and slots specially crafted to store their wares in the most effective manner. And they have mapped out their routes for the next 10 shows on their list. They are good.

They are also good people. They talk excitedly with festival goers about their work and are generous with sharing advice and even supplies with the girl who rarely does these things. I can’t imagine doing a show every weekend for three months straight, but these folks conquer the circuit like kings.

June has been full of great arting opportunities for this girl: piano painting, studio touring, and now NicFesting. My mom and I spent hours roasting in the heat today setting up my booth for the festival. No matter. I think the three day arts event is going to be great! Thanks for all of the help, mom!

Thank goodness for the sketchbook. It’s kept me drawing as things have gotten busier.

I had a few things on my plate today. Winding down with my trusty ink pen and sketchbook was a nice way to round the day off.

Sketchbook page

The task at hand was daunting. As the clock ticked and eyes watched, she waited to see what would come of it. Stretched beyond the point of comfort, she felt akin to what Gumby must feel when being pulled by two toddlers. Branching out is good, she convincingly told herself. Being stretched forces you to grow.