Artist Barriers

This weekend I will be a part of an Artist Showcase. A gathering of 50+ artist and artisans displaying their talents in a variety of mediums. As exciting as it is to participate in events like these and to be reintroduced back into the art scene post-covid, the issue remains, how do the artist’s make the most out of the exposure?

Most artists have crafted their talents from many solitary hours of practice isolated from communal settings, group dialogue and face to face interactions. To thrust these artists into an open space surrounded by strangers peering over their shoulders with every gesture of a brush, it can be nerve-racking to work within such a space.

For artist, there is typically a physical or virtual barrier between the artist and the audience. But at a showcase, the audience is encouraged to step into your world and get to know you. Within this intimate space, you can provide something more beyond the barriers and sell them you as yourself. The art becomes merely a transactional exchange of appreciation than it does a purchase.

I thought about having my back turned from the audience as I painted a large piece on my aisle, but I lose connecting to the energy of the event. Instead, I’ve planned to do “Dollar a Minute” sketches. Fast and expressive and in-the-moment ideas that the audience can contribute themes.

-Busy Brain