You know the philosophical saying, “If an artist creates a masterpiece, but no one ever sees it, does it truly make an impact?” (Okay, maybe it was about a tree, but you get our point). Having an audience to admire, critique and connect with your work can fill an artist’s soul and make the ‘Keep Creating’ mantra easier to fulfill. But what happens – when 2020 happens?
You get creative.
Like the rest of the world, the Hot Shops had to alter so many of our plans this year. Our Spring Open House was cancelled, and we missed seeing your wonder-filled faces as you immersed in locally-made art and discovered something new inside our building.
When it became clear we wouldn’t be able to open up to large groups for some time, artists Angela Szelag and Kelli Sweet jumped in to help create a Virtual Fall Open House so we could still share our latest works and get your own creative juices flowing.
What transpired over the course of those five days – Sept. 17-22 – was a ‘virtual’ love fest. There was inspiration, wonder, excitement and, of course, a few humorous gifs. More than 1,300 individuals joined the group to cheer our artists on. Greg MacDonald and Mell Smith jumped in the first morning for a live demonstration on woodcarving and painting and Tim Barry followed soon after with pottery. Twelve other artists shared their artistic talents that included glass blowing, bronze pouring, metal forging, painting, quilting, jewelry making and more. Our artists shared who they are, what mediums they work in and their creative processes with the hopes of inspiring others to create something new.
We are truly thankful for everyone who showed up to our first virtual event. We can’t wait for the day when we can have large groups back in the building, and we are currently working on plans for our Winter Open House, scheduled for Dec. 5th and 6th.
In the meantime, keep fueling those creative sparks, keep supporting each other (in-person when circumstances allow and virtually when they don’t) and keep bringing your brand of beauty into the world.
