It’s exciting to be part of an artist community and especially a co-op. The business side of art has always fascinated and confounded me. What one person must have, another mocks. Mocks?
One of the responsibilities co-op members have, is to staff the gallery. Many galleries rely solely on volunteers and what visitors to a gallery do not always realize is that the “salesperson” they see is also an artist whose work is there.
I am intrigued by their comments and learn a lot by being tough skinned and listening. “I could make that.” “They want how much for that?” “That’s nice but I would change…..” “They need to take lessons….” “That could’ve taken very long to make….” “Even I could do better than that….”When I notice people gravitate to the same object in a gallery, I try to figure out what attracts them to it. When someone is buying a painting, I ask them what drew them to it and I often hear- it reminds me of a pleasant memory, a special person, a trip I took. “My grandmother always had geraniums in her window.” “I remember that view. That painting makes me feel calm.”
My primary motivation to paint does not have to do with what I think will sell. I paint based on a place, mood, colors that resonate with me. While many people who visit galleries are pleasant and complimentary, people need to realize that the staff may be the person who created what they are discussing.
I am pleased to be at Artistic Roots, 73 Main St. Plymouth NH (www.artisticroots.com) . Come visit. Say hi. If I’m not gallery sitting that day, introduce yourself and talk to the artist who is. We love talking about our art. And perhaps you will find something special that resonates with you to take home, too.
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