A day in the life of a contemporary artist: From sketchbook to gallery opening – a journey through creation and inspiration.

Introduction

Participating in an art tour is an exciting and often overwhelming experience for artists and visitors alike. This article, or rather blog post, takes you through the entire process of preparing and executing an art tour, with insights ranging from the creative process to the emotional roller coasters that accompany this unique event. Whether you are an artist planning an exhibition or a visitor looking to understand the experience, I hope that what I write can provide you with valuable insights and inspiration.

My passion for art and creation

My journey in the art world has always been deeply personal; every piece I create carries my story, my feelings and my thoughts. Art is more than just paint on a canvas; it is an expression of identity and a platform for communication. In every brushstroke there is a part of me, and when I participate in the art tour, it is like opening my heart to the world. Exhibiting my work is an opportunity to share my passion and to inspire others.

Before the art tour begins, it is important to reflect on why I create. Every piece of art is part of a larger story, and I look forward to letting visitors discover these stories. My hope is that every visitor will feel a connection, whether it is through a specific piece or the general atmosphere of the exhibition.

The preparations

Pricing paintings and prints

One of the most challenging aspects of preparing for an art show is pricing my work. It’s not just about setting a price; it’s also a reflection of my time, energy, and creativity. I have to consider material costs, time invested, and even market prices for similar works. Pricing my paintings and prints correctly can either make or break my show.

To make informed pricing decisions, I conduct thorough market research and consider measures such as attending workshops and networking meetings where I can discuss with other artists. This information gives me a better understanding of what clients are willing to pay and how I can best position my work.

The creative process behind the works

The creative process is a central part of my preparation. I spend hours, days and sometimes weeks working on new pieces, choosing colors and techniques that best express my feelings. For me, it's about experimenting, failing and learning. Every piece I create is a step in my development as an artist.

During this time, it is also important for me to document my process. I take pictures and notes to reflect on my journey and to create a deeper connection between myself and my future visitors. These insights can then be used in the presentation of my works, which adds an extra dimension to the art I share with the world.

Creating an inviting exhibition

Exhibiting my works is not just about hanging them on the wall; it is about creating an atmosphere that invites visitors to stop and explore. I place great importance on the space, the lighting, and how the works interact with each other. By thinking about the flow of the space, I can guide visitors through my art and create a cohesive experience.

I also consider including other elements in the exhibition, such as the music and the scent of the room, which can influence the visitor's emotional response. A well-thought-out exhibition can transform a simple viewing into a magical experience that visitors will remember long after they have left.

Thoughts and feelings

Optimism and enthusiasm

It’s easy to feel optimistic as the art fair approaches. The anticipation builds, and I look forward to sharing my work with the world. I imagine the reactions of visitors and how they might feel a connection to my creations. Seeing my work on the wall and knowing that others will have a chance to experience it is an incredible sense of accomplishment.

This optimism drives me to give my best throughout the event. I prepare myself meticulously and make sure every detail is thought out. The positive energy helps me overcome obstacles that may arise, and I feel ready to face the challenges that come with sharing my art.

Hesitation and worry

Despite the optimistic outlook, there is always a sense of doubt and worry. What if no one likes my work? Will people engage with what I have to offer? These thoughts can be discouraging, but they are also part of the human experience that many artists go through. These feelings are often what makes us human and vulnerable.

Dealing with these emotions is important to me. I remind myself that art is subjective, and that I can’t control how others will react. Instead, I try to focus on the joy and pride I feel for having created something unique. It helps me embrace the uncertainty and see the art journey as an opportunity for learning and growth.

Visitor behavior in uncertain times

In uncertain times, such as during pandemics or economic crises, it is interesting to observe how visitors behave. Many are still willing to participate in cultural events, but they can be more reserved. I have noticed that visitors tend to be more reflective, taking the time to really look at the artworks rather than just rushing past them.

This change in behavior can be an opportunity for me to create deeper interactions. By being more accessible and engaging in my conversations with visitors, I can get them to open up about their feelings and thoughts about the art. Listening to their reactions also gives me valuable feedback and new perspectives.

The big moment

The opening of the art tour

The opening of the art tour is always a nerve-wracking moment. It's like standing on stage for the first time. I feel a mixture of anticipation and nervousness as I see visitors start to stream in. This is the moment when all my preparation and hard work culminates in a real experience. Seeing others interact with my art gives me a sense of fulfillment and validation of my work.

I carefully observe how visitors move through the room, how they stop at certain works, and which works arouse the most interest. This feedback is invaluable; it helps me understand what resonates with the audience and can shape my future creations. It is also a fantastic opportunity to connect with other art lovers and network.

First visitors and their reactions

First-time visitors are always my biggest source of excitement. Hearing their reactions, both verbal and non-verbal, gives me a direct sense of how my work is being received. I can see their joy, wonder, or even sadness in their facial expressions. These moments of honesty are priceless and give me insight into how people experience art.

I also feel like I learn from their interpretations. Each individual brings their own background and experiences, which creates unique perspectives on my works. Hearing their stories about how the works affect them is part of what makes art so powerful; it creates a dialogue that extends beyond time and space.

Reflections after the art tour

Lessons and insights

After the art tour, it is important for me to reflect on what I have learned. Each event is a new opportunity to grow and develop as an artist. I go through the reactions I have received and analyze which works aroused the most interest. This reflection helps me understand my strengths and weaknesses, and how I can improve my future exhibitions.

I also take note of feedback from visitors, both positive and negative. Being open to constructive criticism is crucial to my development. It can be difficult to accept, but it is through these insights that I can hone my technique and refine my message. I use this feedback to shape my future works and to create an even more engaging experience for visitors.

Future plans and ambitions

With each passing art round, I dream about the future and what the next step might be. Participating in more exhibitions, collaborating with other artists, or maybe even starting my own art collective are thoughts that run through my mind. I want to continue to challenge myself creatively and explore new themes and techniques in my work.

An important part of my future plans is to reach out to a wider audience. I am considering using social media and digital platforms to share my art and thoughts. By reaching out to new people, I hope to inspire them and perhaps even create an interest in art that they may not have had before. This could open doors to new opportunities and collaborations that I would not have been able to imagine before.

Termination

Participating in an art tour is a profound and enriching experience for both artists and visitors. It's about more than just showing work; it's a chance to share emotions, tell stories, and build relationships. By preparing carefully and being open to both positive and negative feedback, I can grow as an artist and continue to develop my passion for creation.

I warmly welcome you to me.

Ekersgatan 6 in my studio you start with a visit to ceramist Pernilla Söderek.

In the courtyard there is a luxury flea market and 2 stairs up the gate from the courtyard you will find my art.

Saturday, June 14, 1:00 PM-6:00 PM

Sunday, June 15, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM