First off, I am very pleased I chose to exhibit THE CROSS SERIES. I think it was my best show. The nine pieces fit nicely in the gallery. The horizontal cross bars of the crosses lined up at the same level, to enable the eye to transition the corners of the space smoothly. I hung the paintings low, so as to illustrate the direct correlation between the viewer and the vertical section in each piece. I think it worked!
I enjoyed the feedback. Although I was only present for half the time during the run of the show, and I missed a very important members meeting, where I would have received direct feedback, the word of mouth was wonderful! Stefany Benson, the gallery director told me that she would overhear pieces of conversation, indicating only positive reactions.
One significant reaction was from one of two of the most important art critics in New York: Jerry Saltz, Senior Art Critic for New York Magazine. He “liked” two of my posts on Instagram. I posted paintings on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, my Facebook page and on my blog here on WordPress from the show during the exhibition’s run, knowing my work would be publicized in the twenty-first century way. But I had no idea someone as important and influential would respond. When I thanked him on Instagram for “liking” my work on the two posts, he “liked” the thank you post as well, a post of a different painting from the series!
My mission with my art has always been to aim as high as I can. My ability will restrict me to the level where I am meant to settle. But the attempt to create the highest art and stick to the purist art I am capable of, is my goal. Sales? At the closing, where I was present, brokers on video chat were roaming around taking video and discussing my paintings with their clients. Who knows?
But for now, Jerry Saltz has me feeling guilty for not working on my new stuff. Pretty much all the time. Isn’t that a good feeling?
Hollis, I was just getting to know you and your magnificent work when you launched your show of collage work and the “Afloat” series. I loved that work. However, I must agree that following along through Facebook and your blog of this latest show at Ceres in NYC really captured me! Not only did you show that you’re unabashed at working at such a large scale but all the paintings worked so well as a unit. One can see the abstraction of “crosses” and the color palette you chose was so electrical and vibrant. The piece you chose to be the main focal piece to promote your exhibit exemplifies this – with that strong sense of magenta and pinks. Receiving “likes” and accolades from Jerry Saltz, too!! You’ve built up solid momentum. I’m looking forward to what you’ll do next. (No matter which media you choose!) I do think though that you deserve a little down time for yourself. It’s been a whirlwind year for you!!
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Thanks so much Patricia! I don’t know what to say. But as you know I will try. Haha. I agree we all have to take a break sometimes. But now does seem like a good time to “strike while the iron is hot,” you know? Trying to think of a good concept is the key to all this. I had begun my series on my clothes and their links to my memories. I even have some work started. It’s just that it is with fear that I post any of it on Instagram, if you know what I mean. A good kind of stress, right? Always complaining!🙄
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You outdid yourself on this show!
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Thank you, Marjie for “visiting!” I hope to sustain the momentum. Know it can’t be exactly the same, but hope I come close. xo
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It sounds as though the show was not only a learning experience, but a great success as well. Great job, Hollis! Thanks for taking us along with you.
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Was told by a marketing expert friend of mine to post a minimum of three posts a day, one at three different venues! The new website has links at the bottom, so it was fun to rotate all of that and keep everything fresh! The movers loved having their picture taken. Glad you enjoyed it!
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This is great – I’m so excited for you! And yes, you probably deserve a rest but when inspiration from a prominent art critic sets your motivation off then you have to go with the flow! How wonderful. So happy the show was a success…looking forward to whatever is coming next😉 xoxo
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Thanks. Totally agree. Maybe the next project will be set up soon !!!👀
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