Art Show Receptions

Otherwise known as a dignified place to meet some pretty kooky (and cool) people.

I love artists. So many of them have such interesting lives. They draw on their experiences and interpret the world around them in a way no one else can.

The flavor of an art show reception is an interesting one. At first, you look around and see almost everyone is dressed in semi-formal attire, but then you begin to talk to the people.

For instance, I sat down with a woman named Ola at the art reception I went to last night. I had met her before, but we hadn't talked much. I sat down next to her and her husband, Jack, and suddenly the conversation began to flow. I love hearing about people's lives directly from the source. I am transported to the time and place they are talking about effortlessly. Ola is an artist who has been married to Jack for 59 years! I found this out after she asked me how long my boyfriend and I have been together. I replied "Four," quite proudly. I laughed at myself when she responded with her impressive number. She told me all about her life from the time she first got married to Jack, who was a marine and a police officer. They had to move all over the country, due to his occupations. Ola told me about riding on the back of a motorcycle with Jack driving and their three year old daughter sandwiched between them. Her story held my attention captive the whole time she spoke.

As the assistant to the Arts Leader for the gallery I work at, I stood behind her as she delivered a few announcements to the crowd of artists and friends. I love coming to the receptions because it provides a chance for me to dress up a little. I bring my boyfrined with me for stability (like when I wore my 5 inch high heels) and support (when I am supposed to make an announcement and I have to look out at the crowd). I like interacting with the artists and I enjoy all the lovely dishes they bring to share with the crowd. This time I ate one of my favorites, a devilled egg! I walk around the rooms, showing the artwork and commenting on it with whomever walks up to me.

Before working for the gallery, I worked at the front desk of my town's city hall. I answered phones, took down complaints, accepted utility bill payments (glamorous, right?), and called up groups of people with important messages. I was as shy as could be when I first started that job. I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to work there, because I am much better at "letting my smile show throught my voice" and just talking to people in general.

In every established society, art exists. When the need for survival is met, people can focus on more intellectual and beautiful things. I love being in the middle of all of this. I meet so many interesting people and see so many beautiful pieces of art. I am very rarely unhappy when I leave for work because I know that there is always something different to do every day I go in. My only regret is leaving the beautiful outdoors. I usually end up having it recreated indoors, though, so I can't miss it too much.