On Experiencing My First Art Show Opening...

installation day - laying it all out

It is the greatest shot of adrenaline to be doing what you have wanted to do so badly. You almost feel like you could fly without the plane.

~ Charles Lindbergh

I don't even know how to start describing last Thursday's opening other than it was a complete adrenaline rush!

The opening was part of a pilot initiative called Arts Night @ Credible Edibles, where my friend Judi is opening her café for dinner the first Thursdays of every month to coincide with a local Arts Walk. In the spirit of the 'hood's vibrant arts scene, she's featuring work by local emerging artists and hosting the official opening of monthly shows at the same time.

Last Thursday was our first Arts Night and we didn't really know what to expect. Well, let. me. tell. you. The place was packed!

Dinner was delicious and not not only did my friends, family and colleagues get to see my art, they got to witness my first waitressing gig too! What a ride. Five of us in an open kitchen working to serve over 30 customers that came for dinner + others that came to view the art and enjoy a few munchies. There was a cozy, full, happy buzz in the air.

Oh, and did I mention that just a block south of the café the power was out? I think we shall count our lucky stars, hm?

I didn't get to chat as much as I would've liked to with friends and loved ones who took time out of their week to come out and support me, but I was able to give them hugs and express my gratitude. I felt giddy at seeing my art up on the wall, enjoyed meeting new people and loved hearing what different people saw in my abstract images.

I also treasured the experience of working through a collective adrenaline rush with four other women to make the evening a success - a first for me really. It felt good and we're already working on next month's opening for a Winter Solstice themed group exhibit!

All told it was a heap of learning, bursting out of the comfort zone, gratitude and fun.

As promised I offer you a few pics documenting the installation and the opening itself, the latter taken by Sis since my camera never made it out of my purse (thank you Sis!)...

four up, four to go

... and we're ready to roll!

... and we're rolling!

Sis and I - so grateful for Sis' support

the woman behind the perfect gathering space and the delicious food

Judi, owner of Credible Edibles, and I

PS - If you didn't get a chance to make it to last week's opening, the art is up until the end of the month and Judi's yummy is food available Monday to Friday for lunch. You can still check it out!