60TH COCONUT GROVE ARTS FESTIVAL

Thank you Coconut Grove! The 60th Coconut Grove Arts Festival has now come to a close and my head is still spinning. What a wild ride! I arrived on Thursday night so that I could be part of an Emerging Artist event. Over the weekend I was lucky to be a mentor an emerging mixed media artist named Maria Crespo. She shadowed me during the morning hours of the show on Monday, February 19. I was so happy to get to know her. I love to share my passion and my gratitude for what I do with others and encourage them to follow their own bliss. It feels like paying it forward.

Friday, February 16 was set-up day for artists. It takes me about seven hours to build a double booth. So it was a long full day. I celebrate with some takeout from my favorite Indian restaurant which was within walking distance of my accommodations.

Saturday, February 17 was a blast! Lots of happy energy and lots of great conversations, both with patrons and my fellow artists. I said goodbye to my latest Octopus painting and to one of my favorite floral landscapes.

Sunday, February 18 wasn’t as bad as we all feared. It started relatively dry and lots of great people came and walked around in the cloudy morning. The afternoon weather closed up the show a little bit early but it wasn’t so bad.

Monday, February 19 began beautifully when I went to hang, “Good Morning, Poppies!” in her new home. The rest of the day was just as delightful.

Camille Marchese, thank you so much for being such a personable, effective, passionate and down to earth Festival Director! Your authenticity is so appreciated. Cindy Lerick, I thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of the mentor program. I am up for it anytime I have the opportunity. It is always truly and sincerely a pleasure.

I hope to see you all next year if the stars align!

Cheers,
Christine