There’s a new breed of collector – and artist – emerging in this changing paradigm and the recent Open Studios of Washington County gave me the opportunity to explore this evolution as I talked in depth with the art enthusiasts who came to my studio for this year’s biennial.
“I discovered your artwork on the internet, and have been following you on Facebook for years”, said a visitor as she toured my collection of sculptures and vessels. “I couldn’t wait to see your work in person – and it’s even more spectacular than I had imagined!”
That’s when I realized how much the art industry has changed in just the past two years. As art galleries close, artists are now using social media to get their work out – selling from their studios and online and developing relationships directly with their clientele, which is great news for anyone looking to purchase art.
For example, when I participate in a group show, I’ll have several pieces exhibited along with other artists. In a solo show, I’ll exhibit maybe fifteen to twenty pieces. But at this most recent Open Studios, visitors had the unique opportunity to choose work from my entire inventory of over seventy pieces.
And not only did they enjoy my newest collection of sculptures, they were thrilled to discover artwork I created when I had a studio in Montreal – beautifully carved face masks in ceramic and full-sized bodycast sculptures, like “Lord of the Ring”, inspired from the sculptural studies I did with a model who was a student at the National Circus School and who now performs with Cirque du Soleil.
Guests to my studio took the time to appreciate the artwork so they could decide on which one they would take home with them. Some spent up to an hour touring the studio, as they learned about the stories behind their favorite pieces.
And I, too, learned alot through the many conversations I had throughout the two days of the show.
One woman just couldn’t take her eyes off “Ancient Wisdom”, which was displayed in a corner of the studio gallery. “It keeps moving, changing,” she said. “It’s never the same each time I look at it. “
Her comment made me realize why that particular piece was such a challenge to create. As I was carving it, thinking I knew where I was going, the energy of the piece would shift and take me in a totally different direction. It was a challenge to stabilize that energy so I could finish the sculpture.
Art isn’t just about art – it’s about people. The ones who create the work, and those who appreciate it. It’s that relationship that gives life and meaning to the artwork.
And speaking of relationships, I wouldn’t have been able to offer the Open Studios experience without the help of three extraordinary women who were with me throughout the weekend: Léa Rivière, a fellow artist from Montreal who helped greet guests and provide information when the crowds became overwhelming, Mary Holland who managed the art sales and shared her positive spirit throughout both days – even when we were all exhausted, and Sarah Morgan – owner of Soul Space where I set up my studio – who graciously prepared the environment and held the energy so that each visitor would receive exactly what they needed from their visit.
To my three good friends, I offer my heartfelt thanks. To all those who came to the Open Studios – I look forward to staying in touch. And to those who purchased artwork – enjoy!
