Art Exhibition Wrap Up

I’m an only child. I’m used to being independent, but I also very much enjoy working as a team player. But, I must admit that many times when I delegate, things just don’t go as I expect them to. It can be very stressful. Especially when working with people I’ve never met before.

I received a call from the librarian that would be assisting me with setting up the exhibition. To my surprise, things had changed. His name is Tom and he was calling to ask me if I could be ready for a mid-February exhibition rather than the end of February or the beginning of March. This was a huge change! I was already overwhelmed with the commitment.

During this conversation, Tom said, “If you won’t be able to have enough product for the exhibition, I do have another artist that would be happy to share the exhibition space with you.” Oh, no! This was the last thing I needed to hear! I have a prime opportunity to have a solo art exhibition and get my work and my name out there. The last thing I wanted was to share the event!

What if I didn’t get a say as to whether or not the exhibition would be shared? What if the other artist created sub-par art, this could affect my results as well. Or, it could make my art look even better? It was like a gamble. Anyone that knows me will understand my hesitation. I do not gamble. I create the best outcomes possible for myself and my family. All I could do at this point is take a deep breath and reassure Tom that I’ve got this. I will have enough product/art ready to go by the February 16th deadline he was giving me.

After we ended the phone call, I reviewed my canvases and art supplies. I ordered more supplies and kept painting. Many times I had to reassure myself that I could do it. I could fill the exhibition space… by myself. This time, I didn’t want to share. I want to make this point very clear. Tom was not pressuring me in any way. I put the burden on myself. I made a choice.

My art exhibition went on to be very successful. I learned a great deal. The staff was very supportive encouraging. We worked together to make the exhibition attractive, professional, and easy to navigate.

Tom and I had a very direct conversation after a few hiccups about the lack of response from him and the physical aspects of hanging the art with their cable system. We committed to doing better with each of our expectations if we work together in the future.

I think one of the main things I learned during this experience was to not assume anything. If I have questions I need to know who on the team is responsible for which things, ask for help, clearly state any concerns or questions, and be open and objective with my attitude.

I treated everyone, including myself, with respect and made sure I was not too hard on anyone. I kept a grateful heart and all went so well.

I received many positive comments in my guestbook, I ended up with a few sales, and I received some orders as well.

My best advice to artists is to have good open and direct communication when participating in an art exhibition. Be grateful for the opportunity and do all you can to help the venue have a good experience with you, the artist. Be a good example of what a professional artist truly is.

Be well, be blessed.