Art Festivals have their potential risks as well as their unforeseen rewards. Having taken a risk to go to the Bar Harbor Arts Festival to show samples of my house portraits in the hopes of attaining some commissions was a strategy I had never attempted in the past. Ever hopeful, I thought that surely the owners of the most beautiful and historical Victorian homes in Maine will want to commission a house portrait of their beloved homes.
In fairness, I met some very interesting and engaging people who came to the arts festival. Many expressed interest in my work and also took my postcard and information to think about it. So as the weekend wore on, I recognized that purchasing a house portrait is not a spontaneous decision, and it also requires some trust in the artist. In my home town, where people know who I am, I have received many house portrait commissions. But in Bar Harbor, I am unknown to the residents. Did I say residents? Most of the people I spoke with were from somewhere else, as Bar Harbor is an attraction and destination point for tourists from all over the world. Most come to enjoy the spectacular natural environment as well as the commercial attractions and the abundance of artists. 
While at the art festival, I love to view the other artists' work who I admire and from whom I find inspiration. In my exploration of what was being offered by the artists that I admire, I was growing in my confidence to paint what is in my heart, and to not think in terms of trying to accomodate the marketplace.
I am dreaming my own dream,and in letting go, being patient and having faith, I can set my sails towards manifesting my visions.
My wish is to manifest art that is expressive of a happy heart which will bring joy to others.
