As I'm sure most of you have heard by now, Artfest 2012 will be the last one.
Teesha Moore has decided to follow a new path. I can totally respect her following her instincts while at the same time, I am heartbroken. Artfest has meant so very much to me. I first went to Artfest 2008 and I have to say, it changed my artistic life. At the time, I was mostly painting in watercolor on ACEO size (2.5" x 3.5") paper. I was happy with my work but I had no focus and no real style of my own. I kept seeing artists I respected talking about this amazing event called Artfest. I decided to check it out. I came home so invigorated, inspired and excited that I felt like I might burst into flames! I got home at 10 p.m. on a Sunday night. At 8 a.m. the very next morning, I walked into my garage and spotted a piece of plywood cut in a rectangular shape. I have no idea why it was there. I'm guessing my husband cut it for some household project at some time but my only thought was, "That's what I am going to paint on!" I developed my own techniques, painted like a maniac for 2 months and sent in my application to teach. I have taught there every year since.
The best thing about Artfest is hands down, the people. There is a spirit of acceptance and love there that I have never found anywhere else. There are very few negative personalities, very few artistic secrets. Almost everyone is not only willing, but excited, to tell you how they did something.
The first year, I posted a little note on the Yahoo bulletin board looking for someone to share a car with. I met my best bud Cheryl McCloud (thank God for her!!). For that week each year, we are bonded like sisters, I love her so much!! Also in my little love circle: Mindy, Kathie, Kate, Tammie, Regina, Michelle, Jennifer, Nikki.....there are so many, many more people that I pray I will be able to see in some other venue at some time. You have all meant so much to me.
So....if you have always thought about going to Artfest but always said "maybe next year"....make your plans. It is not to be missed for this last time. It could change your life.
Here is a new painting. This one is larger, about 12" x 20" on plywood.
9 comments:
I am so happy for Teesha and I can't wait to see what the future holds but I too am very sad . I have been to two Artfests and was hoping for many more. I wish I could have attended at least one Journalfest as well .
Your new painting is gorgeous !!
I love your work you are so talented = )
Ah, thanks for listing me in your love circle. You know that I feel the same way, too. We'll just have to plan our own artfest---Mentone? Gig Harbor? I like this piece, too, BTW.
Hey there bubbly sunshine,
Love this new piece. Awesome, as always.
I can't believe this is the last Artfest. I was so hoping I may be able to get there this year, as I will be heading over to the US sometime next year, depending on which part of the U.S my husband decides to go to. However the dates for Artfest doesn't work for my hubby's scheduled. Boo hoo hoo! =(
I'm sure your classes will be great.
xo **sob, sob, sob**
love love LOVE the painting!! and artfest sounds amazing, where is it held? It is probably too far for me to travel :(
Oh my gosh, i love this piece/painting!
Ah, i can feel your joy and sadness over artfest such a gift it has been in your life and so many others. Wishing you a wonderful last artfest. I wonder what will be born next, when one door closes, many more open ~
Thank you,, my friend from afar!
I think the saddest thing about no more Artfests is that I won't get to see my favorite people anymore. Like you. :( We'll have to make plans to see one another somewhere else.
oh I love you! And I love Artfest even though I've only been once...but I'm so glad that I decided to sign up this year - I have a feeling it's going to be a special one...but I see that every one has been special for you. And it's awesome that you've had so many awesome experiences there over the years... Can't wait to see you again! and be taught by you! xoxox
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