Last winter, after an unplanned pause from work, I had the ambition to write more frequently on this blog. As you can see, this did not pan out exactly as planned. I have so much to say as the last few months have been busy with many good things happening in my life.
My return to work in February did not go as well as I had planned or hoped but I managed to push through. There is a story to be told, and perhaps at some point, it will make for a good blog post.
In March, I decided that this year, my goal was to apply to a number of art shows and see whether my art was strong enough to be accepted. I applied to four, two in Ottawa and two in Toronto. Ididn’t think I was going to be accepted in the Toronto ones, but you don’t know without trying! But, I got into one, and in the two Ottawa-based ones; I was super pleased! The thing that I hadn’t noticed when I registered for all these events is how close they were to each other! So, I ended up doing three shows in four weeks and while it was tiring, it was so much fun! I loved meeting artists and sharing with them our successes, tricks and struggles. In Ottawa, I saw friends, colleagues - present and past - who came specifically to see my kiosk or were just at the event to admire the art. I also managed to cover my registration costs by selling two paintings at each event, which made me happy. But most importantly, I felt that I belonged at these events, with wonderful emerging and seasoned artists. I am not going to lie, being accepted at the Riverdale ArtWalk in Toronto felt akin to being promoted to a higher league and it felt so natural to be there. I have to acknowledge all my great friends and family who came and helped me during these events - Marie-Josée, Manon, Mathias, Hayat, Philippe, Jean-Guy and Carlo - how lucky I am to have such great friends following me in my crazy endeavours.
In April, I was able to redeem my love of travelling by going back to France, this time with Mathias and Avery. We met up with Alex and Maggie in Besançon and then left for Strasbourg, where Loic joined us. Strasbourg is such a beautiful city and we had an awesome time, the whole family being together. For my 50th year I wanted to have a family trip and I don’t think it could have been any better. I came back with my heart full and my head full of memories. It also helps when you don’t think you are going to die when you are abroad! (see previous blog post if you are curious!).
So, what’s next? Next weekend (July 8-9), I will be participating in the Glebe Art in Our Gardens and Studio Tour. You can come see some of my latest paintings in my backyard, both Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 4pm. I am the first stop on the tour (see below) and the furry boys will also be there to welcome you. Alex is coming back after a 10-month stay in France and Loic will visit in August. I am looking forward to a slower pace and having these wonderful young men back in Ottawa.
The next big art show that I will be participating in will be ArtWalk in the Square, in Toronto. Stay tuned for more information in the coming months.
Wishing you a wonderful summer.
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