There is a trick to doing art shows and open studios. The trick is waiting patiently, on stand-by, all systems ready to go.

How does one be productive while waiting but not be so involved that a visitor/customer/guest feels like an interruption?

It is a mindset. I remind myself that on THIS day, I am not here to produce; I am here for the visitors. Therefore, anything that gets done is a bonus.

• Knit
• Weed
• Color
• Begin a drawing, before things get too detailed and engrossing
• Update inventory lists
• Update the website
• Edit a chapter for the upcoming book about the Springville TB Hospital (This one was tricky, but I squoze it in before I heard a car arrive!)
• Enjoy the beautiful spring day in Three Rivers

As much as I’d like to just make art and be left alone to do so, this is not realistic. The business of art requires interaction with the public, most of whom are interesting and pleasant people. The business of art also requires keeping track of inventory, updating one’s website, and planning ahead.

Sometimes, it requires sitting, being available, and waiting.

P.S. Knitting and weeding are bonus activities, reserved for recess time.