Have Art, Will Travel (…and set up my tent, rain or shine, and hang out in there for 3 days)

It’s an unavoidable, at times frustrating and yet always inspiring aspect of a life as a jewelry artisan. Arts Festivals are vital and traveling the show circuit is a fascinating way to get to know a place, its people and my fellow Artists on the road.

First it’s the most effective way to sell my work to my customers. Second, even during a particularly challenging event, often a weather related calamity, something  memorable always happens. Third, I LOVE to travel. I love the anticipation, the adventure and the stimulation that comes from seeing and experiencing, the new.

Compounded with the drive in studio to make the next piece or build the next collection for my customers this makes for the excruciating, slightly addictive vortex of pressure that constantly asks me to reach and explore as an artist. Oh yea, I can’t forget, this is how I make my living and support my family, that’s a very powerful driver too. So many of the inspirations and ideas for new designs are born in the booth, or the drive home.

Most recently, I had two in a row, a difficult but formidable feat. 

First Rhinebeck Arts Festival in upstate New York. The drive from Frederick, Maryland to upstate New York was just stunning, with the leaves turning. I stayed with a dear friend and fellow fiber artist Sonya Mackintosh. Our friendship began when set up across the aisle at a show in a New York City Armory 16 years ago. She is a talented designer, an amazing businesswoman and someone I consider a true friend. I stayed in her lovely home, we cooked delicious food and most importantly we caught up on each other’s lives.

Here’s a link to her site, her scarves are divine www.smartworks.com plus a photo of the view from her guest room window! Not a bad way to wake up every day Sonya!

Most memorable sale in Rhinebeck?

This sweet man did the ole’ “wrap it up quick” secret return to the booth after watching his lovely wife try on this Petal Necklace. It was a fabulous surprise for her and fortunately they sent me a photo. If you’re ever in Woodstock stop by his mountain bike shop! He’s fabulous. Hope she doesn’t wear it on a 80 mile bike trip!

http://www.overlookmountainbikes.com/about.php 

After Rhinebeck I headed to Louisville for the first time.


The St James Court Art Festival was celebrating its 54^th year! One of the largest outdoor arts festival in the country, it takes place in historic St James Court and Belgravia District surrounded by the stately Victorian homes of Old Louisville. After set up on Thursday I had the opportunity to take in this lovely artsy city. I even picked up some bats for my sons at the Louisville Slugger factory!

My Favorite sale was to a young college student that returned to the booth to purchase the necklace his sweetheart had admired the day before. They grew up together as neighbors then fell in love in high school and are now still deeply in love as college students. He was taking her out to Ruth Chris Steakhouse to celebrate their anniversary that night and wanted to surprise her, I gave him a little discount. They too shared a photo of the moment! What a dear couple.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Nana and Granddaddy Krantz are a huge part of what make this all possible for me, in ways too many to count. I am especially grateful for the special time they spend together with my Zach and Ryan when I’m on the road. Their relationship is a true blessing. As for my parent’s unrelenting support of me, well that’s priceless.

 See you on the road!

For our show schedule (and a little shopping) see our site www.inbloomjewelry.com