First Friday / RVA Fashion Alliance - Fashion is Art Gala

I had the pleasure to partner with the RVA Fashion Alliance during October's First Friday and for a RAL- Richmond Animal League benefit. With several other local artist we showcased our photography, wood sculptures, paper cut art, leather goods, clothing, and jewelry to the masses.

On October 7, 2016 we had a preview of our collections in Richmond, Virginia at the Virginia  Interactive. This was my first First Friday and even though we didn't have that many people come through I got to meet some great artist, have good conversation, enjoy music from next door, and do something different.

I love that Richmond has come to life on Fridays and that people are out an about. When I was in college in Richmond there wasn't events like First Fridays and the city wasn't very art friendly even though VCU has an art school in the area but better late than never!


First Friday Event:

WashingtonCuts

Ali Ferguson

Desman Grain

Renee Kaelber

Isabel Edmonds

Derrick Friedline

Fox and Hound event was low key also. There was an awesome band called The Folly, there was a really good MC, great raffle tickets items, and food.

Also artist M. Jiannalone

Peace,

Janelle Washington

Inspiration Tuesday- Do it now

I am currently preparing for a craft fair in Philadelphia in two weeks. Participating in art/craft fairs make me nervous. There are too many uncertainties and to sell you have to spend money. Right now my money is "short". 

Since I have a vivid imagination, in my mind I play out that I will sell well and have fun. I have learned over the past, what I see in my mind doesn't always come true.

The first fair I participated in I sold three items... and I felt they were pity sales... My art was well received but the people weren't convinced that they needed my art in their homes. 

I know I need to do these fairs. They will strengthen me as a sales person and as an artist. I will work on my "elevator art" pitch and smile more to strangers.

I also, know selling online (Etsy) in the summer sucks... Sales dry up like a California desert. I have put off doing outdoor fairs for two years saying that I didn't have enough inventory. Well, here I am with inventory and I need to do this now! I going to be brave and try to do at least three fairs this year. Tweaking my finances as I go.

I am brave. You can be too. Go and Do (whatever IT is for you) Now. We are not promised tomorrow and tomorrow may be one day to late.

Inspiration Tuesday Creative Inspiration - Laughter

I have been thinking about my weekly blog post and what I want them to convey to my readers and decided as artist, thinkers, lovers, humans we all need inspiration. 

So on the first Tuesday of every month I am going to post some of my favorite inspiration quotes, cartoons, pictures. I figured life can be tough let's figure out how to make it easier and what better way to get going than this one:

Did you laugh today?