Art in the Park 2012

After a four year break, Art in the Park returned to Greenville this past weekend. I was privileged to be a part of its successful return. The weather was nearly perfect both Saturday and Sunday...a little warm in the sun, but under the shade of our tent it was nice.

It was nice to do a show so close to home. Tim and I didn't have to be downtown until 8 on Saturday morning to set up. It was also nice to visit with the many friends who stopped by.

Because we were so very close to the bridge, I took a few of my Liberty bridge prints and notecards along with my glass pendants and artwork.

As usual, we met lots of very interesting people over the course of the weekend. I had a chance to visit with lots of my friends in the local art community and meet some new artists.

 

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Gowensville, SC

When I first started creating fused glass work, I realized I needed outlets to sell it. It really started out kind of slowly. I wore my own things, people at worked liked them enough to ask about them, and I overcame my uncertainty enough to bring a basket into work. To my surprise, I sold quite a few that way. The next step brought me to a local gift shop where I rented a space for my things, and I explored the possibility of doing my first outdoor festival. This is where Gowensville comes in.

I really don't remember exactly how I found out about this festival, probably an email from MAC (Metropolitan Arts Council). But, I nervously filled out the application and sent it in with the entry fee. To my relief, I was accepted and began preparing for the show. I had nothing to work with. I borrowed a couple of tables from my dad. They weren't even folding tables, so he took them to the site in the back of his truck for me. I was so nervous about this show that I took half day off work so I could go out the afternoon before to scope things out and set up my tables.

I borrowed a set of red charger plates from my mom to use to display my pendants. I threw together some signage and scrounged up a couple of red tablecloths. Thankfully, my mom came along with me to help out as well. There were just so many details involved in doing a show, from price signs to money for change. It was all so new - kind of scary but fun too!

That first show went better than I had expected. The people there were so nice. The weather on that November day was unseasonably warm. And, I actually sold stuff!

So, this past Saturday, I went back to Gowensville for the third time. After a couple of years of doing shows, I don't get nearly as nervous these days. I don't go out the day before anymore, and I have my very own folding tables. I still rely on and enjoy help from my mom and my husband. I still have lots of details to remember, and I confess to worrying needlessly about having enough inventory...haven't sold out yet.

I enjoyed being there this year as much as the first year. It is always nice to get out and meet people. I enjoy talking to them, explaining the process of fusing and hearing their stories. It is nice to sell a few pieces too! I always feel better about making the money to support buying and fusing more glass.

The tree right above my tent - 2011

My first festival space in Gowensville in 2009.

My booth this past Saturday - 2011