We are now on the homeward stretch of the build up to Hertfordshire Open Studios that starts on 11th September.  I am exhibiting here in my village of Benington at The Long Barn owned by Chris Pepperell.  I am part of a Group called “5 in Cinq” – Trevor Attwood – Photography, Julie D Cooper – Artist, Fiona Pruden – Artist, Carol Winton – Textile Artist and me, Judith MacKay – Artist.

We will be hanging our work at the Long Barn over the coming weekend and holding our Private View Party (sorry invitation only) on Friday.  We are open to the public on the weekends of 11th/12th, 18th/19th and 25th/26th September from 10am – 4pm.

Julie and I will also be exhibiting some of our paintings at Copper Beech Studio Showcase on 4th September  from 10.30 am to 9.30pm as a taster for Open Studios.  It really is very exciting and I am so looking forward to it.

Do come and see us at the Long Barn in Benington, just near Ernest Doe the big Agricultural Engineers.  The postcode is SG2 7BX.  It will be signposted with one of those very large long banners outside the venue as well as lots of dayglo yellow signs with arrows on  the roads into the Village.

Look forward to seeing you there.

Judith

As my Open Studios exhibition is fast approaching I thought I would share this with you.

I have been following The Smartist blogs for some time now and want to share this with you.  I know you will find is useful as well as encouraging and to know that we are not alone out there trying to make a living from our art.

Praise and recognition feel great. Who doesn’t love a few pats on the back?

The problem comes when you peg your self-worth as an artist on what other people say about your work–and who’s saying it. Sure, your first cousin loves your art, but she’s supposed to, right

Make art that’s praiseworthy in your own eyes. If you create work that you truly like, revel in the enjoyment. If you create art that satisfies you, be grateful. If you receive kudos along the way, good for you! Accept them graciously and enjoy the experience. (And remember, your first cousin just might want to buy that piece…) The opinions of others matter, of course…but so much less when you keep the focus on how you feel about your art.

For more advice check out the following website

http://smartistcareerblog.com/