I’ve had several people comment this week on what a lovely brochure Open Up produces. It’s a real pleasure to read. It still surprises me, however, as to how many people are unaware of this annual event, despite having an interest in the arts. To several people I’ve discussed it with it came as a complete surprise.At this point I’m always slightly nervous but I know that when I get into it I shall enjoy it, despite feeling quite tired at the end of the day. The studio has had its annual spring clean – pastel dust gets everywhere – and is presently looking incredibly tidy. The payback for that is that the spare bedroom is bursting with all the things I’ve moved out!
I’ve still to make final decisions on pricing but I have done a rough draft and then I can adjust the odd painting. This year I’ve got cards and prints to sell as well so during busy spells I shall need the help from the family for sales, drinks and answering the door. The event this year will be a fair indicator as to whether spending money on prints (albeit small runs) was a wis
e move.I’ve got a good supply of tea, coffee, juice, milk and biscuits which I tuck away in a corner to keep people as safe as possible and I’ve put up all the necessary signs such as “Private”, “Toilet”, “This Way” and “Please Take Care on the Stairs”. The local shops have kindly displayed a couple of posters and I’ve laminated some to display outside the house and at either end of the road. If it does rain they should stay in reasonable condition.
So, that is about it for now. I’m going to take the opportunity to visit a couple of artists today and then its all hands on deck tomorrow. I would like to wish all artists and visitors an enjoyable and fruitful event and I look forward to meeting some of you over the next nine days.
