"Is that all there is to it? HH asked, " Just waltz in, pick up your paintings and head for the car?"
"Yes," I said. "It’s kind of like dropping them off, only in reverse."
"Hmph", he harumphed. "Seems like there should be something more to it than just this."
I know what he means. Simply walking in and walking out seems incomplete. After all, a lot of effort goes into making it into these exhibits.
First off you create a masterful piece of art. Photograph it multiple times. Fill out the application form – completely. Properly identify images on CD. Write or update your artist’s statement (which takes monumental dedication), and bio. Write out a check to accompany the application and CD, and dash to the Post Office just minutes before closing. Then wait for the magic envelope to appear announcing your acceptance into the exhibit.
Hopefully, the next step is to deliver the artwork. Sometimes that involves building a safe container for shipping with another mad dash to the Post Office, other times a drive of several hours for hand delivery. It's a big committment in time, finances and energy.
HH and I believe a little TLC on the part of the exhibiting venue is in order.
A parade would be a nice touch. Nothing fancy like New York’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade of course. A couple of high school bands, a baton twirler, one of those guys in the little scooters would be fine. The bands wouldn’t even have to play the Hallalujah Chorus, a simple high school marching band rendition of "Louie Louie" would suffice. A couple horses bringing up the rear.
Since some venues might not have the resources to produce even a couple of clown cars, couldn’t there at least be music? Maybe it’s my television-addled brain, but it seems to me that when significant events occur on television (which, as we all know, is a perfect reflection of real life) there is theme music, even if it’s only barely audible. Something along the line of Theme from Rocky would really set the tone.
If you're really confident about your artwork, I Feel Good would be awesome to march in to. Anything to add to the occasion, something uplifting and exciting to herald the delivery of the next Best of Show and Big Check painting.
©2011 Patricia Scarborough 6x9 pastel Created to "It's a Wonderful World" in my best Louis Armstrong voice
Extra attention is even more appropriate when picking up artwork after the exhibit has concluded. Egos might be a bit raw if your art didn’t sell, or wasn’t noticed by the judge. At this time, a parade is probably unnecessary since a parade for 3 (Best of Show, first and second runner up) is extravagant by anyone’s standards. However, a small group of volunteers could easily form a line to pat you on the back, congratulate you on your effort, or even chat about the lovely weather we’re having. I nominate Frank Sinatra signing “My Way” ,
or even Tubthumping by Chumbawumba. (Or maybe its Chumbawumba by Tubthumping. I can never tell.)
What extra attention would you like when delivering or picking up? A harpist? Perhaps balloons released upon your arrival. Doves? (Not so much on the birds. There are usually repercussions.)
You choose. How would you like to be treated when you next deliver your artwork to an exhibit?
3 comments:
Handsome Husband (a.k.a. H.H.) weighing in on this one. I suggest that all viewers listen to the songs as you view Patty's blog. She left one out that would have been most appropriate when we picked art up in Norfolk - the famous song often heard at wrestling meets, "She is the Champion."
H.H.
Gosh Patty, how about Smokey Robinson's "I Second That Emotion" for a comment on your thoughts?
I've often felt there should be a bit more enthusiasm when doing a pick up or drop off. Since we can't all be flies on the wall during the exhibit--I think you're right--a small marching band, a chamber quartet--something geared to the theme of the show would be quite appropriate:)
Glad you agree Hannah. Perhaps some recorded 'ooooohs' and 'ahhhhs' as well!
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