It’s too early for me to start an end of year recap, but I’ve done some things. Drink and Draws, Open Studios, Accent Walls, Christmas Gifts. I’ve been busy.
November Drink and Draw
I decided to hold a November Drink and Draw at my home studio. I placed an ad and had something like 70 people indicate interest. Fear set in because I don’t have space here to host that many people. From past ad campaigns I know you can’t count on the interest list. Two folks joined me for the evening, one of whom I’ve known for years now (the other his new girlfriend). By some metrics it was disappointing to not meet more local artists, but at least I didn’t end up stuck alone or with one single person I’d never met before. For my part I made progress on sort of a love/Valentine’s Day greeting card design.
Annual Open Studio
The following weekend was the Open Studio in which I open the doors to the public to stop by an look at all the art and projects I’ve done over the last four years. Technically, there were more visitors at the Open Studio than Drink and Draw. My sister, Heather, stopped by early with her three kids. My friend Peter stopped by at the end of the evening and I did some napping while I hoped for more interested parties to stop by between.
I’ve really had mixed results each of the four years I’ve hosted an Open Studio. This year poor planning was partly to blame as I decided to do this last minute. Regardless of the time of year, there’s always a lot of competing interests out there (Sports, county fairs, parades, holidays, you name it). Maybe in 2020 I’ll plan further ahead and try a different time of year.
Regardless of attendance, I had more art and things on display than ever before, and that’s something I’m proud to have accomplished.
The Next Thing…
I’m still waiting for the venue to make an official announcement, so details are sparse for now, but I’ve been tasked with playing a short set opening for some fine musicians on January 18. I’m excited and nervous. It’s been a while since I’ve performed music publicly. I’m trying to increase my cardio and get my lungs ready to really belt out some notes. Part of my concern is my shoulder experiences pain when I put my arm around the guitar. I’ll manage. The setlist changes in my mind a little every day and I’ll probably shoot for a half covers and half originals mix. I’ll share details on the Neat & Keen Facebook page as soon as they are available.
All The Rest
Cherry Blossom Accent Wall
Some of you might remember this:
It’s a digital rendering for an accent wall in my bedroom where I currently have to deal with an unfortunate window placement. One day in November it was warm enough for me to go outside and rip 1/4″ planks for the project.
Today might be warm enough for me to cut down some of the larger planks to their proper size.
Big Dumb Metal Cabinet
This was for sale locally and I couldn’t resist. It’s the perfect size to put one of my printers on top and I could use something like this to organize my printer supplies. The patina is interesting as is, but in the interest of keeping away further rust I will likely prime and paint it.
Part of me wants to go to the store and buy supplies to work on this today, but I’ve got to finish some projects before I start this one.
Christmas!
Most of my gifts are wrapped! I may add some color to them. I’m making a piece of art for someone which I obviously can’t share here now, but I’m going to have fun with it.
One year I went all out and drew chalk pastel images on all of the packages. I will probably take the easy road this year and use some decorative ribbon. Maybe some festive paint stencils.
More to follow. If you’re in the area I hope you’ll stay tuned for details on my upcoming performance in January. Have safe and happy holidays if you don’t hear from me until after the New Year!