Art Fair Spotlight - An Exhibition Journey
Navigating the Art World: My experience at the Fresh Art Fair in Cheltenham
Having just returned from the Fresh Art Fair in Cheltenham this weekend, I'm finally catching my breath after months of preparation that led up to the past few days. Art fairs are an intense whirlwind, requiring not just artistic effort but also a fair amount of stamina. I could feel my social battery draining as the days went by, but the experience was truly fantastic. It was a joy to meet so many wonderful people, engage in conversations about art, and share my latest paintings with the world.
It’s not all about sales!
One of the highlights of the fair was undoubtedly coming away with some sales under my belt—a huge thank you to those who came and supported me. However, the experience was about so much more than just sales. It was about seeing people connect with my art,, witnessing their reactions, and receiving feedback. It’s incredibly affirming when someone looks at your paintings and truly "gets it."
Throughout the fair, I kept a little notebook to jot down some of the lovely things people said. One comment, in particular, stands out and made my weekend. During the VIP showing, a lovely lady approached me and said,:
“You’ve not shown here before, have you? I know because your work is just so fresh… there’s nothing here like it!”
Hearing that was such a great endorsement of the effort and emotion I pour into my art.
Overcoming art fair overwhelm!
What struck me most during the fair was how overwhelming it can be for visitors to choose a new painting..
I had several conversations with people who had narrowed their choices down to a handful of pieces but were struggling to make the final decision.
I completely understand the dilemma! Art is such a personal purchase. It’s not just about filling a space on the wall; it’s about finding something that resonates with you on a deeper level, something that reflects a part of who you are or who you aspire to be.
So, how do you know which painting to commit to and take home? My advice, more often than not, is to go with your heart. If you feel an instant connection, a sense of joy, or even a tinge of excitement when you stand in front of a painting, that’s probably "the one." Art should evoke emotion, make you feel something, and add a sense of happiness and wonder to your home. It's about finding a painting that makes you smile every time you walk past it, that brings a bit of joy into your daily life.
Another important consideration is to think about how you’d feel if you left the fair without it. Imagine driving away and realising that you can't stop thinking about that particular painting, or worse, returning to find that someone else has snapped it up. That feeling of regret can be a sure sign that the painting was meant for you.
Exhibiting at the Fresh Art Fair was a fantastic experience, and it reminded me of the power of art to connect, inspire, and bring joy. It was also a reminder of how personal and meaningful the process of choosing art can be. So, if you find yourself at an art fair or gallery, feeling overwhelmed by the choices, remember to trust your instincts and listen to your heart.
Art should fill your home with happy vibes, make you smile, and ultimately, bring you joy.
Jo x