finding where I belong

I know, I know… it’s been a while and I haven’t written anything in ages but I’ve been a tad busy with life so apologies.

I have been meaning to write this since March when I attended the art fair but struggled to find the time. Better late than never though right?..

So I attended Fusion Art Fair last month in Harrogate, although I have done art and craft fairs before this is my first serious art fair at this kind of level. And when I say level what I really mean is price…. it was way more expensive than what I have paid previously so I almost didn’t do it! But as they say you’ve got to spend money to make money so I took the plunge and it was well worth it.

I’ll be honest I was terrified, the most nervous I have been for any event. I was worried it would be a massive expense for nothing, scared of what to expect, but mostly, I was worried I wasn’t ready. The old imposter syndrome kicking in. The usual voices telling me I’m not good enough, my works shit, no one will buy it… etc, etc. But I was about to find out the complete opposite.

As soon as I arrived the staff and other artists were welcoming and helpful, immediately put my nerves at ease. I had a quick scout around the event and saw so many different types of art, such a good mix of work that helped me feel much more comfortable. I do like to stand out a little bit but for the right reasons of course.

Got my stand setup, kept it simple so the paintings could stand out and I was ready to go. The imposter syndrome kicked in again but it was quickly squashed once people started arriving, within 30 minutes I sold 5 miniature paintings to a couple who love crows… phew, that took the pressure off! I got so much great feedback from guests and other artists. Those little doubtful voices could no longer be heard.

My stand at fusion art fair harrogate - 7th -9th of march

Day 2 and Day 3, not as busy as I hoped but still had some amazing feedback from visitors and I sold another 2 paintings! The feeling when someone gets your art and they love it, there’s no feeling like it. Even if they don’t buy a painting, knowing that they genuinely like what you create is so rewarding. Helps you know you’re on the right track.

I’m usually quite the introvert at events and struggle to engage with people all day, but at this event, I could have talked to people about my art all day. I think it was down to the kind of people that were there. Genuine art lovers and fellow artists, it felt easy, conversation just flowed and I enjoyed every minute of it.

I also spent a lot of time talking to my fellow exhibitors during quieter periods, it was great to get an insight into their experiences of art events and selling online. One artist I spoke to quite deeply about their decision to quit their job and go at it full time… “wish I was that brave” I said. One day maybe I will be.

Overall, it was a great event and I’m so glad I took the risk. I felt like I was where I should be, where I belonged. After all the nerves and doubt as to whether I was ready I know now that I was. My art is good enough and there are like minded people out there who want to buy it!

After such a high at the art fair, coming back down to reality to my 9-5 job was a bit of a low… I’ll be honest, but at least I know now that this is what I want to do. It’s not just a silly little hobby anymore it’s a serious art career and I’m ready for the next chapter.

Thanks for reading my rambles.

that’s it for now, stay strange

Cally

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