Sunday, January 11, 2015

"The Colors of Life"...still riding high!

I have been so focused these last few months on getting new pieces made for my first solo exhibit, that even Christmas didn't seem as important to me this year...  and for those of you who know me, that is big as I am addicted to everything Christmas.  But having my first SOLO show was MAJOR to me, so first let me thank Julie Saviano, the owner of Etui Fiber Arts for her confidence in my work, that she wanted it to hang all alone!  I have been in other gallery shows before, but never has a body of my work hung all by itself.  I was full of mixed emotions...  what would be the reaction, am I kidding myself to think my work is worthy enough to stand all alone..  I was truly going to be standing NAKED on those walls with no other supporting artists to prop me up?

Well as I noted in my last post, I hung my 10 piece show Tuesday night.  Folks in the knitting classes were complimentary, admiring the work as it went up.  Julie told me that over the next few days many commented on how gorgeous they were.  I was still skeptical.  I wanted to be there and watch peoples faces as they looked at each piece.  I could barely contain myself as I waited for the Opening Reception.  As I drove up to the gallery Friday night, I saw some had beat me there (and yes I was early).  I could see them taking pictures... I realized it was my niece and nephew who had driven up from Virginia to show their support during the opening. OK, I can do this, folks cared enough to come.

As the gallery started filling up, I could see the smiles on their faces and in their eyes.  At first I wasn't sure if it was shock or true enjoyment, but as the comments started coming and folks started asking me questions about the pieces, my inspiration and my process, I knew I would be ok.  They liked my work!  I began to relax and enjoy the evening a bit more.  Again I looked around... there was family and friends and fellow quilters, ok, those I had hoped would attend.  But wait, there was one of my high school teachers (yes from almost 40 years ago) whom I had recently reconnected with on Facebook.  There was a college friend, whom I hadn't seen in over 30 years, another follower of my work on Facebook.  But to my surprise, there were folks who I didn't know, who had heard of the show from social media and pictures people had shared on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter about the show.  Pictures that had intrigued them enough, that they came out on a frigid 10 degree night to see MY work. 

So now, 2 days later, I am still riding the high, still feeling elated with the reception my work received.  Still feeling BLESSED that so many would come to see what started as a stress reliever that has grown to be one of my greatest pleasure givers...  the time I sit with my sketchbook, or gaze at fabric wondering what if, or the time I sit at my machine creating.  I truly enjoy the process.  The good news is, I am on a continual journey...  the more I create, the more I learn, the more I want to do.  That in itself is so fulfilling, to be inspired to learn, play and create.

Ok, enough about me.  I know many of you have asked for pictures from the show, so here they are...

Fire Dancer 2015 (30" x 36")

In The Spotlight 2011 (31" x 28")

Let's Here It For The Girls 2015 (51" x 40")

Sea Glass Pathways 2015 (36" x 30")

 Splat * It is All That! 2014 (18" x 30" each piece... can be hung side by side as well as separately)

Swinging Willows 2015 (53" x 31")

Pathways 2013 (3 separate pieces to create a Kimono shape, center is 19" x 30" folded lengthwise, each sleeve is  12" x 15" folded lengthwise)
Knock, I'll Be There For You 2014 (18" x 30")

Paisley Visions 2013 (33" x 33")
Sister Chat 2009 (32" x 27")

The rest are pictures from the Opening Reception and views of the gallery.  Hope you enjoy...





























The exhibit is up until January 31st.  I hope you get a chance to see it first hand.  I would love the opportunity to walk you through and share my thoughts on each piece and the 'farm to needle' shop that Julie has created in downtown Larchmont, NY.   If you are interested, just let me know and we can try to coordinate a time.

Euti Fiber Arts is located at 2106 Old Post Road, Larchmont, NY.  Hours are Tues/Wed 10am-5pm; Thurs 10am-9pm; Fri/Sat 10am-4pm; Closed Sun/Mon

Hope to see you there!
Renee

4 comments:

LourdesToroArt said...

i am at awe with your beautiful artwork. i wish i could have been there. i pray that this is a first of many creative endeavors on your part. you are an inspiration to me. thank you for sharing this. Lourdes

Ellen Ann Craig said...

Beautiful art work. Love your red door! I really like your style. Congrats on having your own show! That is fantastic! Ann

Karoda said...

I saw the link in the Fiber Art Group on FB. Congratulations to you. A first solo show is indeed a big deal and a growth for an artist...and your work is lovely! Wishing you continued success!

Norma Schlager said...

It looks just fabulous, but then you know I am a big fan. Your use of color is fabulous and your FMQ is outstanding. Bravo on a job well done and kudos on your three (or is it four) sales.