endlessly as works are moved from here to there and back again; pricing is re-evaluated as there are direct-to-customer sales. In short - the B.A.P’s working life is compressed into a couple of weekends. When I say “life” I obviously include all the self-doubt, imposter syndrome and insecurity that are the baggage of the artist.
What’s a partner to do in this scenario?
Over the years, I’ve developed a two-pronged support strategy.
1) Carry heavy stuff.
2) Keep my mouth shut.
This is surprisingly effective. Heavy stuff needs to be carried to here and there and back again endlessly and keeping my mouth shut allows the BAP to be the artist and make her own artistic decisions as I’ve realised over time that I’m not an artist and I’m grateful that she is.
When the Open Studio days finally arrive.
All the angst and preparation will have had an effect. There’ll be nothing to do as it’s already done or it’s too late to fix. Your job as a partner is then to fill in the gaps for your BAP. If they’re introvert, do the extrovert things - meet and greet, softly sell their work. Make sure all the visitors are well looked after and most of all make sure your BAP is looked after with tea and coffee and snacks and given a chance to have a break away from all the hurly-burly.
Open studios should be lovely!
A chance for the artist to show off their wares, to meet their public and for all the nosey-parkers in the neighbourhood to have the snoop around they’ve always wanted to, also a lovely chance to catch up with old friends, drink tea and to enjoy the show.
Then, suddenly it’s all over. Your house is strangely quiet. All the sculptures that were cluttering up your kitchen have been removed and you prepare yourself for… (Dramatic music) the post mortem!
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