Last fall I had the opportunity to display my artwork at a popular restaurant in town. It was on display for several months and I thought it enhanced the space quite well. I created this body of work for my first solo exhibit that was last June. The interior of the gallery was similar to the main wall in the restaurant with exposed brick. I lucked out as the owners did not take any commissions from my sales. They just want to support local creatives, and I am so thankful for the opportunity I was given. As an emerging artist in my community this is a great way to get my name out there. If you are an artist who is contemplating your next step, I recommend contacting local cafes and restaurants.
I installed on a day the restaurant was closed. I snapped this photograph to show my daughters.
"The connection between food and art has never been greater." I read this in an online article by domino magazine and I thought I needed to share it. One of the restaurants they include has "the largest private collection of Andy Warhol works in a public space." Can you imagine dining and viewing some of his original silk screens at the same time? I love his work and can only imagine this experience. http://domino.com/restaurants-with-best-art-and-decor#8
My original painting "Who You Are".
A customer recently inquired about this body of work, asking if the painting above was still available. I offered to bring it over so she could see it in her home, she decided it was meant for her. She has great style and I was thrilled to see where she planned on hanging it. I have just began a relationship with this collector, and it was the second piece she has of mine. I asked her to share a bit about how she discovered my artwork and this is what she had to say.
"I first came across your art at Two Dishes. I was there for the Green Eggs and Ham (so good!!) but also always love seeing the local art they have on display in there. I really loved the whole collection that was displayed, and there was one piece in particular that really caught my eye. Every time I went for brunch and got to admire the piece once more, it really solidified how much I loved it and helped me imagine what it would look like in my own space. Being able to view the collection in such an informal way made it seem more approachable and accessible. I went for the food but ended up finding a beautiful piece of art for my home!"
"I like the idea that you can unintentionally stumble upon an awesome piece of art by a local artist while you're out for dinner, brunch or coffee. Like I mentioned previously, it makes art feel a lot more accessible and artist's exhibits aren't just confined to the typical gallery setting."
I feel very lucky that I am able to paint and my local community is helping me exhibit my work. I'm busy creating more plant study pieces for my next show at a local Craft Beer Cafe in May.