Postcard by Michael Risenhoover of the Art Guild

Here in the heart of Pacifica lies an arts community that is strong, talented, and warm, and I feel as though I fit right in.

Opening ReceptionI participated in the Art Guild of Pacifica’s Open house this weekend at the Sanchez Art Center.  In the Open House, artists who rent studios at the Art Center open their doors to share their works, and for a nominal fee other Guild Members can display on a stretch of the gallery walls.  I had a 7 foot span in the West Wing where I exhibited a combination of past and recent works along with my cards, pendants and prints. 

Leslie and I put up my exhibition together earlier, and it was the first time I’d ever done one this way.  We had a really cool time collaborating on what should go where, and as usual our strong personalities met in the middle to create something mutually satisfying.  I was fascinated by the art that was up around us.  I had no idea so much talent was hiding in Pacifica.  But we felt that my work stood on its own merit. 

My ExhibitionThe Opening Reception Friday was loads of fun.  People were excited, animated and very welcoming, just as the artists around us were happy to be there and friendly.  The Guild people made me feel at home.  Linda Russell is always very nice, eager to answer questions, and welcomes any help we might offer.  Saturday and Sunday I found myself keeping the snack table in order, and as it took me back to my event planning days in Corporate, I had a lot of fun with it.  

By the end of the day on Sunday, all of the artists in our wing were friends, exchanging stories around our lives and our art.  It was unexpected and cool, and I was impressed with the sense of mutual respect I felt.  There was a chorus recital happening in the Mildred Owen Concert Hall adjacent to the Sanchez Art Center and part of the same complex, so people attending dropped in on our exhibition.  I was happy to see Glynis and Susan Takalo drop by that afternoon, as well.  It was a lovely surprise, although I wish they could have stayed longer.  I wanted  to talk more art with Glynis, as she had that glimmer in her eye, the same one I had eight months ago.  In fact, I hope to see Glynis as a Guild member soon.  It only costs $25 to join for a year, the exhibition fees are minimal at best, and the time commitment isn’t too demanding.  She would have a great time nurturing her art and her artists’ spirit.

In spite of all this fun, Sunday evening rolled in and it was time to dismantle our exhibition. How is it that I can feel a combination of happiness and sadness at the same time?  When I look back to March at the start of this artistic pilgrimage, I am satisfied with what I’ve learned and what I’ve done.  But this was my last art event of the 2011 season, and it will always be special to me. 

Links:

PACIFICAPERFORMANCES.ORG

The Sanchez Art Center

Enormous venue!This is how I went into last weekend; floating on a strange combination of anticipation, hope, and exhilaration, and expecting success with no reservation.  I was so thrilled to be an emerging artist.  Twenty of us were picked from over 600 applications, and it was incredibly validating. 

Still, I don’t know quite where to begin this article.  I feel like I’ve climbed a mountain to get to this point.

My family and I spent much of the summer attending festivals and fairs with my art, learning a lot but experiencing modest or nonexistent sales, and watching foot traffic dwindle from barely there to a trickle. The overwhelming consensus in our house is that most of the time people don’t bother or can’t attend certain events, and when they do, they hold on to their money like it’s the end of the world.   I’ve written about it many times.

I was certain this event would be different.

The Celebration of Craftswomen is a highly publicized San Francisco craft fair to benefit the Women’s Building.  Typically, it’s held over two weekends around the Thanksgiving holiday, making its proximity to Christmas perfect for holiday shopping.  It’s the biggest craft fair exclusively for women in America, and artisans come from all around the country to sell their work.  Vendor booths cost between $600 and $950, higher than most fairs in the area, which is a reflection of its past success, and most vendors incur expenses around hotels, transportation and food, as well.   Shoppers pay $10 just to get in the door.  This year an unforeseen and uncontrollable issue with the venue forced the event to a date much earlier in November, and squeezed it into a three day weekend including last Friday, which was Veteran’s day.       

Our combined booth looks great!As an emerging artist, I was to share booth space with another woman.  This made me nervous because I prefer to keep it in the immediate family.  However my partner Cat and I hit it off right away.  She takes pictures around the world, and then flirts with the polarity between monochrome and color through photo manipulation.

Friday saw very little foot traffic and modest sales. Minutes felt like hours. Clothing and jewelry sold more than anything.  Gift items like my art and Cat's prints were stagnant.  I went home feeling defeated, confused and upset, but putting a lot of energy into keeping my chin up.  I felt grateful the experience wasn’t directly tied into my confidence because I know people like my work.  There was a lot of interest for both Cat and I.  But, for example, one new artist made beautiful stained glass boxes that weren’t selling, and, upon visiting her booth, it was obvious how devastated she was.

Saturday was a bit better, but nowhere near as expected.  Vendors all around us grumbled their discontent.  Sunday was quiet despite an unexpected group of shoppers from the nearby Farmer’s Market. The upside, however, is that everyone seemed to find their sense of humor and real conversation began. My art and Cat’s prints drew interested shoppers into our booth, and I enjoyed a number of fascinating conversations around spirituality, creativity, and life in general.  I wandered about, my mind blown by all the wonderful work, and I met so many incredibly talented artisans. I’ve listed my favorites below.  In my wanderings, I heard tale of a time when, 15 years ago or so, a vendor would attend this event and take thousands of dollars home. People lined up a block long outside to get in.  It all seemed to end in 2008 when the housing market crashed.

In the end and several days later after I put it into perspective, I felt richer in character and experience, but unfortunately not anywhere else.  I left with a renewed understanding of how much my art is appreciated by the general public. I also left with an understanding of how the economy is re-shaping the experience of American artists.  But more than anything, I came to the realization that despite the fervency of the occupy protests, the only way the American public, aka the 99 percent, will make a difference, is by putting its money, what little it has, where its mouth is.  After all, McDonald’s changed its Happy Meal recently, right? They didn’t do it to be nice. They did it because sales went low.  It’s what the consumer demanded with its dollar. 

I’m no economist, but I believe this is the key. The Celebration of Craftswomen is a spectacular women-only event that should have been a smashing success.  I believe if can be again, but only if each of us breaks the cycle of paralyzing economic fear to make impactful consumer decisions.

Here is a list of my favorite artists from the show:

Gata Lata

This is my booth partner's website.  We traded prints, and this is the one I got, my favorite!

Norikat

One of the girls from the Crucible!

Emmeline Craig

Judy Bingman Photography

The Two Dog Studio

Donna Perry Dolls

Julia Lucey

The Spotted Pony Photography

Cathy McClelland

Cathy's work was primary acrylic on waterboard and focused on animal totems.  This one in particular (all rights to the artist, of course) just took my breath away.  It's called "Sun Bear".

Theresa Honeywell

Simply Sine Paper Artist

You'll have to see this artists's work to understand she cuts every single piece by hand!

Misti Lehman Stained Glass Artist

LeatherArt by Dawn Mountain

This piece is one of my favorites!  Dolly's bust priced at $750 and made entirely of leather! I don't think it'll appear under the Christmas tree this year!  All rights reserved by the artist, of course.

☆¸.✿¸.•°*”˜`*•.✿★.♥. ★✿.•*´¯`*•..¸★¯`•.¸☆ 

Here is the schedule ... scroll aaaaaalll the way to bottom for the added appearance!  ❤

November 4 (Friday)
South City Holiday Boutique
Municipal Services Building
33 Arroyo Drive
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
South San Francisco

November 11, 12, and 13
Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Celebration of Craftswomen (www.celebrationofcraftswomen.org)

Fort Mason Festival Pavilion
San Francisco
Contact me directly to obtain a postcard that provides discounted admission!

November 26 (Saturday)
San Bruno Holiday Boutique
Senior Center
1555 Crystal Springs Road
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
San Bruno

NEW!

December 2, 3, & 4
Friday, Saturday & Sunday
2011 Art Guild of Pacifica Open House
Sanchez Art Center
1220 Linda Mar Boulevard
Pacifica

We got to Rohnert Park in less than an hour despite the intense fog.   Granted, we had to drag Elizabeth out of bed super early on a Sunday, but I figure she’s young and will bounce back. She gets extra points for being a trooper.  Set up was fast and easy now that we’ve got our booth design down pat.  As I was setting up, I thought the next step is to integrate my older black and white pieces again. There’s room for them now.   Our presentation was clean cut and professional,  personally satisfying, and our booth was on the edge of the event very close to parking, which can be good or not so good.  In this case, it didn’t matter.   

By 10:00 a.m., I could feel the sun as it tried to break through the fog.   The venue was a courtyard surrounded by the performance arts building, gym, and art center. If I get too hot, I thought, I’ll hose myself down in the gym showers. 

Noon arrived and there was very little people traffic.  But people like to sleep in on a Sunday morning, right?  Butterflies drifted by lazily.  These festivals are a long day. 

Eventually, people stopped by to look at my work, and there was  much interest.  If there wasn’t, I’d be devastated.  “Beautiful work!”   “Very nice!”   And each comment was followed quickly by, “Have a nice day,” and dust, as I watched them walk away never having pulled their wallet out.  It was very dusty there.  

Without hopping sales to get excited about, I was left to my own devices.  So, I walked.  Inspired by the surrounding artisans, I daydreamed about my upcoming holiday boutiques. What can I make? How can I incorporate my images into gift items?   And I discover that none of my fellow vendors, with one exception, is making sales either.  There was one vendor, down the row, who had a bunch of small wooden windmills and other rustic looking things to put on your lawn. He slapped some house paint on them, didn’t bother pitching a canopy, and was hawking his wares with enthusiasm.  He also sold them for what seemed like pennies on the dollar.  I got very annoyed with watching those ugly little doo-dads marching past our booth toward the parking lot.  It also proves that in many cases there is no rhyme or reason to these events.  What will or won’t be a success is like spinning the wheel on “The Wheel of Fortune”, completely left to chance. 

Around 2:00 p.m. Kori and Jubal stopped by, this time with their two beautiful children.  I worked with Kori back in the PwC days, even before Caroline, and we were at their wedding when Elizabeth wasn’t even two years old.  Jubal noticed condensation happening inside the glass of one of my best pieces, and so I realized why artists completely wall in their booths at these events.  They do it to protect their work from the sun!  And so I spent the next two hours moving artwork away from the sun and worrying about condensation damage (luckily and so far none has happened, thanks to Jubal).

Four o’clock rolled around, and there was no more foot traffic.  None.  Those in attendance had retreated to watch live music.  Elizabeth finished all her homework, and Leslie was tired of hanging around.  I was sweating and frustrated, so we packed early and left.    The ride home was slow, and the Golden Gate bridge was backed up before the Waldo Tunnel.   Isn’t that always how it is?  After stopping for a much needed burrito, we didn’t get home until 9:00 p.m. where the dogs were hysterical with happiness to see us.

I had high hopes for this event, so I have to admit I’m disappointed.  But, remembering that doing this was a personal dream only a year ago, I rationalize the money spent to make yesterday happen.  Lately, I spend a lot of time worrying about money.  The downside is that I made no substantial sales.  But then again neither did anyone else.  The upside is that I made good connections, artists and others, and I got more information on upcoming holiday boutiques.  This sort of positive thinking is difficult to do right now because I’m tired and still frustrated.  But I do it.  I have to do it. 

This morning, Monday, as I was writing this post, I found myself doubting the holiday boutiques I’ve booked, and casting aside a wonderful opportunity for a two day boutique in Santa Clara that isn’t too costly.  Then, I realized that if I quit, I really loose.   This realization came upon me in the shower, where most of my clearest thoughts occur. 

If I quit, then the assholes in my last job win, and every person that has ever put me down wins, too.  My haters win, my competition wins, and the screwballs that are ruining this country win, too.  The big cheeses who have managed to galvanize an atmosphere of sheer terror in what should be a country of prosperity and risk takers would have complete reign over my life, as modest as it is. If I quit now, then why bother creating at all.  

Well, I refuse.  I refuse to give it over.  

I wasn’t afraid when I left my mother’s house at 16 years old, and I wasn’t afraid when I moved 3,000 miles across the country to be with Leslie (after knowing her for three weeks).  I’m not going to be afraid now.

I must create, and I must bring my creations to the world.

I have to.

View more pictures from the Rohnert Park Music and Arts Festival on Flickr!

I’d spent the last four weeks decompressing after being jettisoned from my corporate job into an involuntary sabbatical, and the last year whining about having no time to do the things I love most.  Suddenly, I had that time and wanted to focus on my art.   I had no idea how to get it out there, but I wanted it out there. So, Leslie and I agreed to invest in a commercial canopy, grid racks, signage and a presentation table; all the items needed to present my artwork.  I framed my art, past and present, in gallery quality matting and frames, and signed up for a few events.  The results are varied, but what I’ve learned is priceless! 

Last weekend, we participated in San Rafael’s Food & Wine Festival.  It wasn’t quite what we expected.  I spent a full day prepping and packing my art knowing full well how easily frames can be scratched.  I packed the car, and picked up the house understanding the dogs wouldn’t be happy about being left behind for the day (god only knows what they’d get into!).  The drive to the venue was lovely and took us through San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge into one of Northern California’s upscale communities, San Rafael. The weather was glorious.  It took two hours to set up our booth, but it’s critical to heed the tiniest details to avoid a sloppy, unprofessional look.

Leslie redesigned our presentation booth for this event, and I was thrilled with the free-flowing, gallery look she created.  It was open, airy and welcoming, and the piece placement seemed to invite people in, encourage them across the presentation table and gently over to the other side. We also discovered that less is better.  People can’t take in too many details, so we hung only current pieces (with one exception) and kept our table uncluttered.  Then, we waited.  We looked welcoming.  I hung in the background until people expressed a desire to talk about my work or make a purchase.  

The event began at noon, and as we watched, people hit the wine heavily. The restaurateur beside us went through 40 pounds of pulled pork in an hour and a half.  By 3:00 p.m., people were drunk.  I thought it would be a pinky-up sort of wine tasting, but these yuppies seemed determined to get wasted as quickly as possible.  People leaned on my racks, and tossed wine too close to my art.  Ironically, they felt more social and hung around to talk more, too, and as a result we made modest sales.  More than one person got the connection between my portraits of Francine, and Ganesh got a lot of attention, as did my large black and white piece entitled “Sheila”.  Folks shouted “Hey, look that’s Janet Jackson (or Latoya, Michael, and even David Bowie)” proving once again that art is completely subjective. 

Aside from the 30 minutes when sales hopped, being in San Rafael, despite the venue and the community’s elevated economic status, was a lot of hard work with little pay off.  By the time we made it back home, we were all exhausted.  

Clearly, it was time to take a step back and review!

I focused on a number of approaches when I launched these efforts in April.  This is what I learned. 

Fairs & Festivals – These events are typically organized by an event planning company, and it can cost anywhere between $200 and $750 to be an exhibitor.  I chose the venue in San Rafael because it was new, wasn’t too expensive, and was an upscale community.  But I’ve discovered it doesn’t matter if the venue is an airport like Pacific Coast Dream Machines or an upscale historic mansion like San Rafael, people hold on to their dollars like it’s the end of the world.   Competing with the lure of free flowing wine and pulled pork, my art became eye candy for inebriated yuppies. 

Spamming Galleries – A useless folly.  I created an on-line portfolio to accompany my already well organized website, and spammed over 50 galleries in California and around the country. Only one took the time to respond, and none expressed any real interest.  This is clearly not the way in. 

On-Line Contests – I entered one contest which was affiliated with an on-line art magazine.  The cost was minimal, it gave my work a lot of exposure, and it was a lot of fun.  They announced the winners yesterday, and although I didn’t place, it was a good confidence builder. 

Call for Artists/Entries – The call for a juried art show typically doesn’t cost more than a nominal entry fee.  There are guidelines and deadlines, and participation is determined by an expert like a museum curator.  I’ve entered a few of these and was accepted into a big show in San Francisco in November, and was rejected from a gallery exhibition in Palo Alto.   I’ll keep plugging away at these. 

Support Your Art Community – I joined the Art Guild in my community, and will be able to participate in a member’s only exhibition as a result.  This is a great way to get exposure, in my opinion, but it also supports local art, which is very important. 

It’s been a crazy, wonderful Summer, and I’ve learned so much.  If we decide to do another festival or fair (like the one in San Rafael), it’ll be next season, and we’ll stick to strictly art venues like the Sausalito Art Festival.  I’ll keep my eyes open for another on-line contest, too, but this time I’ll pay more attention to what kind of art is showcased. What’s the use in competing against abstract artists when your work is more realist?  Out of all of these options, however, I’m convinced that the “Call for Artists”, is the way to go.  It’s legitimate and professional, and when you are picked to participate in a juried event, it speaks to the genuine quality and authenticity of your work.  

Now, I’m focused on the Celebration of Craftswomen event in San Francisco this November. This is the juried art event I was picked to participate in, and I’m working on a few brand new pieces.  I am thrilled to call myself an artist, but what hasn’t escaped me is the power and significance of perseverance.  

Don’t let a rejection get you down.  In fact, consider it a validation.  Perhaps the title of Artist is preceded by some jerk who just doesn’t like what you’ve created.  

We participated in the Fourth of July Celebration in Foster City this year.  Our booth had a combination of original art, crafts, and collectibles (classic comic books and action figures).  It was hot, a lot of fun, and moderately profitable.  

Our Booth

Our Custom Gift Offerings

Rocks, Jars & Captured Faeries

See more photos on Flickr.

Craft Items are available for purchase in our etsy shop (if not now, then soon).

Read more about our custom gifts.

What better way to express your appreciation than with a custom gift basket?

Contact Donna L. Faber * donnafaber8@yahoo.com * (650) 995-3674

Gift baskets are a dime-a-dozen on the internet and in stores.  Each is the same, made with generic contents, and they're all so boring!   Our gift baskets are made with lots of the hottest contents and no two are alike, customized yet still reasonably priced.  It doesn’t matter if it’s for family, friends, or a special client; we put love and attention into every one, so it means the most to its recipient.  

View Spring Mini-Basket Here

Our sizes and prices range, as follows: 

Mini-Baskets $25 - $35

(view sample here)

Small $40 - $65

Medium $70 - $125

Large $125 - $175

(view sample here)

Super $200 - $350

Differing contents will affect price.

Price ranges are flexible.

Payment terms: 100% upon ordering.

Cost does not include tax or shipping.

The difference between us and those other guys is that you and I will work on what you’re looking for together, giving you as much control over the outcome or as little control as you like.  Let’s collaborate to create a customized gift that is unique, fun, and action packed, but still meets your budget. The end result will be beautiful, unlike anything you’ve ever seen, and will make a fabulous impression!  I guarantee it!

View Family Movie Night Basket Here

Other suggested gift basket themes might include the following:

Family Game Night

Super Bowl Weekend

Pet Basket

Afternoon Delight

Holiday Themed

I love San Francisco

Contact Donna Faber directly via email at donnafaber8@yahoo.com or by calling (650) 995-3674.

happy * happy * happy * happy * happy * happy * happy

Happy girls prepare for a chicken race and make serious diary entries, all with goodies they received in their Spring Mini-Baskets!