Sunday, August 07, 2011

A Leap Of Faith


I have taken a leap of faith and opened my own art gallery. I like surprises and sometimes, surprise myself. Only one week ago, Heidi of the Mountains and I were making the rounds of gallery openings as we do on Friday evenings. We passed a storefront where a gallery has existed for years, and I noticed it empty, with a “for rent” sign on the window. Intrigued, I jotted down the phone number. After visiting a couple more gallery openings, out of curiosity, I called the number and heard a recorded message, then left my phone number with my inquiry. By the next evening, I had met the owner, visited the space, meditated on the possibility, and confirmed my intention to sign a lease to rent. All by way of surprise.

Everyone around me has been surprised as well. The owner of the gallery where I formerly showed my work was shocked when I told him. At first he offered me wishes of success, but by the time I had taken all my art out, he was seething mad. He owes me money too, and plans not to give it to me.

I have been a gallery owner in the past, so I already had a sign to hang outside. I have a credit card terminal, and nice oriental rugs that I bought in Kashmir. In one day, I hung the gallery, and the lights were already in place. Heidi of the Mountains has quit her job of fifteen years, and has come to work for me. I have hired an expert salesman I have known for years. The first day open we sold a painting—and I did not have a receipt book! The stock market had dropped 250 points and on the third day dropped another 500. That was the day we sold another painting, and despite my concern of economic woes, the clients were happily oblivious.


I am relieved to be out of my former gallery and now able to hang the full range of my work. People that visit can see a broad spectrum of my creative impulse, including paintings, drawings, photography, mixed media, and even publishing.


I do not have a gallery website yet, but click to view the Steven Boone art website.

4 comments:

Jazz Icons said...

Tis a lovely gallery space, Steve. We wish you much
good luck and success. Remember luck isjust being prepared for the oppurtunity....and you are well prepared.

Warm regards,

Paul ans Inée

Steve said...

Thanks for the warm thoughts!

Mary-Lela said...

It looks wonderful Steven. If the people will just come in I know it will be a success. Your work is awesome! My positive thoughts are going out to the universe on your behalf.

Gail said...

Beautiful galllery and paintings. Best wishes and have fun with it. :)