I painted a couple of quick studies Saturday while selling my week’s work in Jackson Park. The crowd was small, but appreciative. I did end up selling two paintings, so not bad. Unfortunately, I really misjudged how much display space I would have, so ended up under-painting for the event.
Jackson Park Doorway Study, Oil on Linen, 8×6″
I hate to be negative (here it comes), but I think I’m getting burned out by these plein air shows. In the beginning, they were a terrific way to get my name out there, meet other artists, and get basic experience selling, but lately, they seem like a chore. I also feel I keep painting for show after show, constrained by the location I have to paint, which limits my creative choices. I want to work on a series of paintings of Buena Vista Park, or other ideas which I define and control. So, I think I’m going to either stop doing these next year, or scale back considerably.
Is this a “step up”? I’m not sure. I hope the results show it is 🙂 Cheers!
Now you know why I never do any of these events. They take up a lot of time and are rarely about painting. More about socializing and making connections.
E
I went by to see the work only to find it wont be hung until August 3rd. Oh well, I was really hoping to see everyones work.
Ed,
Frankly I have been amazed on how you can do so many plein air shows! I can take maybe 2 or so a year. Of course, I’m an older guy and tire easier than you youngsters…haha. The week long events, I think really wear you down. I much prefer the shorter shows.
I do disagree with elio, though, as I have learned a lot from doing plein air shows. Yes, there is a lot of socializing and connecting, but what is wrong with that? In many of them, I would have my own ‘break-through moment’ and my work would go to another level.
These shows certainly have their rewards–so I’m not advising not to participate. I just think I reached a saturation point this year. So next year, just a few.