First of all, each requires a commitment of time.

From my artist’s chair this weekend as an exhibitor at the Maitland Art Festival, I looked at a lot of people looking at art. I know it was an investment of time for the artmakers: studio time to create the work, travel, set-up, two 11-hour days plus a 6-hour-day, then breakdown and travel home. But I was grateful also to see the investment of time made by art-lookers, too. Lots of people arranged their weekend schedule to allow time to come look at art. Many people entered my booth and traveled the perimeter slowly, taking time to absorb and to understand. (Thank you!)

With art of all kinds, a lot is lost if the art-looker only gives a cursory look. Be willing to give work time to speak to you and to reveal its complexity. This quilt was displayed in my exhibit this weekend. A lot of people looked at it. I was pleased that many people looked at it closely.

A closer look would reveal this detail.

Another detail a closer look would reveal.

(If you’d like more information on “What the Waterlilies Sing,” it is on my website HERE)

“Sleeping on it” can also be a good strategy. In the studio with a work-in-progress, I have often felt the need to set it aside for a night. During sleep, unresolved issues sometimes are worked out. I can come back to the creative work with a new perspective. An art-looker shared a similar experience with me. She walked into my booth and immediately pointed out a work to purchase. I was very pleased – and surprised. “That was a pretty quick decision,” I said. “No,” she answered. “I had seen this work yesterday, but I just wasn’t sure I was ready for a purchase. My budget is small and I have to spend it carefully. But, during the night, the image of this work came back to me, and I knew this was the right decision.” I could not have been more honored!

For both art-makers and art-lookers, creating and experiencing artwork enriches and deepens the experience of life!

One more Festival for me this year. If you are nearby, I hope I’ll see you in DeLand - my hometown!

Thank you for reading. I always enjoy questions and comments.
--Bobbi

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