It’s exhibition submission season for me – always an exciting time, mixed with elation when my paintings are chosen (and of course a little disappointment when not.) Either way, both experiences feel a useful way to help spur me on in my creative journey.
Pictured here is “Woodland light / enchanted woodland” a new painting and recent submission of mine in watercolours on board.

Entering open exhibitions and competitions is a great way to discover ‘your tribe’, whether that’s with a society that celebrates your favourite medium or a subject orientated call out. This can lead to invites to exhibition previews, seeing original work that inspires you up close and sometimes meeting your artist ‘heroes’. Or you could apply to a local art trail. This is often cheaper as you may be able to open your studio or front room as part of the trail or travel locally to take part in a group venue. You can even save on framing by displaying some of your pieces unframed against a mount or in a browser and you never know who you might see your work and stop for a chat…