Adventures of Two Assemblage Artists

“Celestial” by Susan Spencer

     Well, as two artists from a tiny town, Michael (the husband) and I did something really right this year. After being involved with our local art group and the co-op in the nearby town, we took the leap. We opened our very own small gallery in the near-by town. It has been a great year of ups and downs and the learning curve continues to be fast and furious. Luckily we have remained like quick silver and it is paying off.

     I plan on keeping this blog the personal account of where we started and where we are going and lessons learned. Our art is assemblage, enigmatic even to fellow artists, so imagine the “niche” art market we are involved with. Also, that these tough times have not always been kind to us, but that people have been kind. And our little neighborhood gallery receives stacks of complements daily. And we feel blessed to have joined this neighborhood of charming shops and big-hearted people.

     So my first lesson to share is truly, “follow your heart.” With that said, I am reminded of the saying “Trust in Allah, but tether your camels.” Don’t think we started this venture without some reality checks. But we found the right rent, the right landlords, and the best neighborhood. And here’s the measure of our success this year: we have sold more of our own personal art pieces in the 10 months we have been here, than we have over the course of our “artist’s lives.” And we have managed to stay out of the red, business-wise. Meaning we’ve paid the overhead. No big paychecks, yet.

     Next post, I hope to get into more specifics, but for now, happy holidays, and get your “dreamboards” ready for 2012, we wish everyone a great new year full of adventure and fun.

You can find our updated website (another future lesson) at www.artavenuegardenstudios.com Susan Spencer and Michael Wilson, the two assemblage artists.

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