A Day in the Sun

Yesterday was the first ever "Art in the Alley" day sponsored by the Bolivar Downtown Association. What a wonderful event! It was so much fun--and all I did was sit at the end of an alley. I thoroughly enjoyed my day. It began with a pancake breakfast sponsored by the local Kiwanis Club. At 6:30 they sure tasted good. Now, I don't usually even get out of bed before 7:30 so you can see I made a sacrifice for this day! By 7 I was situated at the alley and waiting for artists to check in their art work. It would be hung on some fencing brought in for the event. Due to the horrific storms on Friday and the cloudy skies we were concerned as to whether or not people would bring their work. But come they did. We only had 2 pre-registered artists who didn't come. I ran home and pick up three of my paintings to display even though I hadn't registered. (It pays to know those in charge!)

By noon the sun was out and there were many people walking through exhibits in two alleys. I was watching the adult work on the east side of the square and the west alley had children's work and activities. There were booths set up at the end of the east alley as well as musical entertainment on the 'back porch'. Artists were featured in various businesses as well as in the Court House. A loft walk was also held. Everyone had nothing but good things to say about the event. I had so much fun talking with the artists as well as those who came to see the art work. I got to see so many people I knew and hadn't seen for a long time.

I didn't think about getting a sunburn, especially at 7:30 when I needed a blanket to wrap up in because the wind was cold. But sunburn I got and I am quite red on the arms and neck, but I think it was worth it because I enjoyed myself so much. So I will suffer for a couple of days--and next year remember the sunscreen!

I don't think of myself as a very good artist and really hadn't planned to display any of my work but there were some empty spaces so I did. A sweet lady who came to the event asked me if any of the work displayed was for sale. We had allowed people to put a price on them if they wanted to but this lady really wanted one of my pieces! But because I see so many faults in them, and I have no idea how to price one, I wouldn't sell. She left disappointed and I felt honored that someone thought it was worthy of purchasing.

I haven't painted in years but I really want to begin again after this event. So maybe I'll get my brushes out, buy some new paints and try again. My only problem is--do I have the time?