Thoughts to share, ideas to ponder

When I first arrived in Laguna Beach, CA and applied and got into the Art-A-Fair, I received 50 invitations to the opening party.  But being a newcomer--only nine months in town--I did not know anyone.  I had spent the months since arriving working hard at my painting--alone--and those few people I had met were fellow artists, also with 50 invitations to send to patrons.

So who to invite to this party, one I had never been to myself? 

I sent five invitations:  one to the owner of the local bakery, one to a friend of a friend of a friend, and three more to people who I was aware liked art but who did not know me.  I sent a personal letter explaining who I was and why I was sending tickets.

And now, almost 10 years after moving to Laguna Beach and beginning my 7th year at the Festival of Arts, I have a dedicated email newsletter list of almost 800 and a physical mailing list of about 500. 

As such every year at this time (and often during the Christmas holidays), on the cusp of the summer Festival season in Laguna Beach, I send a personal card to each person who not only has purchased my art but also those who have shown appreciation for it.

Everyone thinks of an artist as one who is continually creating.  Certainly, creating has to be the primary activity.  But, the second most important thing an artist can do is thank those who have supported her through the years.  Support comes in many forms: from the simplest act of signing a guest book or sending a message after viewing the art via the website, to students who dedicate time and money to study with the artist, to art appreciators who purchase the work created by the artist. 

How long does it take to send 500 custom photo cards with a handwritten note for each person? About 4 full days.

How much does it cost in photo printing, mailing labels and postage?  A hair-raising sum.

Do I get writer's cramp? Yes, indeed.

The benefits? Priceless. Looking at the name of each person on my list, where they live, and how I met them grounds me fully in my purpose as an artist:  I create based on an overwhelming need to create, but the results of my best work are left to something that is out of my hands as soon as it is finished.  To the extent that someone enjoys it or learns from it or is enriched by it completes the circle of life for that piece of art.

As such, art is about relationship. 

The local baker who received my letter and invitation to attend the Art-A-Fair party passed my letter onto a regular patron. That patron, a local who happened to be well-connected in the community, attended the party and later became a friend for whom I am so very grateful. 

Art is created, the result is about relationship.

Writer's cramp, a lighter wallet and five hundred signed and mailed cards later, it is one of the best parts of my life as an artist.  I thank you!