The Daily Spectrum - Gallery Wall Talks #8

Every summer there is the Union Fair - one of Maine's largest agricultural events held during the 3rd week in August. It is best known for its blueberry pies and other farm delights. I have participated in the fairs juried show for a number of years. I displayed Altar Piece, a large floral, the second year I entered, with French Iris's being displayed during my inaugural year. In the years that followed, I displayed The Moose, Driftwood, and Rockland Breakwater. The last year I participated I showed The Schooner and The Wedding.

Altar Piece was a ribbon winner placing at second overall. (A lighthouse painting done by my teacher placed first that year.) Moose received a second place ribbon, as did Rockland Breakwater along with The Schooner. The Wedding and Driftwood placed at an Honorable Mention.

I have read in certain articles or web forum threads, that artists who put a price on their art or enter their works in "contests" either sell themselves out or, in some way or fashion, "dirty" the profession of art. At times, there is this myth that artists are supposed to struggle or starve, in order to stay focused or "true to themselves".

I'm glad the profession, as a whole, have been calling out these myths. In my opinion, it is perfectly fine for an artist to make an income, and a comfortable one at that. As an artist, I must be able to feel good about myself, my process, as well as my work. I had a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that other people respected my work and thought it was good enough for ribbons.

The pictures below are my ribbon winning works.
Note: Driftwood and The Wedding were not available at press time.

Until next time,
The Happy Painter,
Jill