Art Trails: the trials, tribulations and successes

It is with a degree of sadness that I am able to write this.

I have just finished my stint of teaching. What a great department to be a member of. I shall miss them and some aspects of the job, but it does now mean I have more time to get on with my artistic pursuits.

We end the month of May, by taking down our joint exhibition. “SEMBLANCE OF ORDER” We’ve received some really good feedback which is just so good to hear.

Most importantly though, Rebecca Coleman and I now know we can work closely together on any forth-coming events.

I for one, hope that won’t be too far off

Brentwood Art Trail

It is always a delight to be part of an Art Trail.

The opportunities that are offered to artists from the organisers and businesses are priceless. A chance to share your work with a wide audience and make connections that you would not have else wise. Moreover, the pleasure that you as the creator get from seeing your work in another setting.

However, art trails are not without their pressures. If you’ve never been involved, here are a few things you may want to apprise yourself with.

Not all trails are equal; some are free, some are paid for events, some involve invigilation at venues and so and so forth. So before applying, and yes you need to apply, check you can manage the dates of the trail and understand all that the trail entails.

The application process has its own inherent stresses.

Some trails are very professional and have a detailed application process. However some are a little more low key and informal.

For sure, one thing you must ensure you have, is good quality photographs of you work, as they will be used in the application process, but also for social media posts.

There are often a number of art trails that you might wish to apply for. Therefore, I cannot stress how important it is to keep records for yourself. I have folders specifically for each event I have applied for, with the application forms and images. I use this as a reminder as well as a record.

Folders with applications and details and I use my own labels as well as the logos etc

So which art trail to pick?

I recommend doing a bit of research. Ask artists that you know have been involved in them, about their experiences. Once you’ve decided whether or not to apply, think about the type of work you would like to exhibit, thinking in particular about scale. Many venues will have limited space and therefore a variety of scale in your work is probably advisable.

When applying, remember you have to be accepted. There will be criteria, that you are unaware of, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t get in. They will have been inundated by applicants.

Some art trails may ask if you wish to create new site specific work. But that always depends on time and locations of work.

I created a specific huge piece for last years Brentwood Art Trail

Liquorice Shenfield and the enormous 150cm x 120cm canvas “Red Clover” for Brentwood Art Trail.

Remember once accepted, you will need to contact the venue and make arrangements to visit, meet your hosts and check out the venue.

Of course, this can be quite difficult to arrange. But once at the venue, try to find out where and what the host would like you do. Some venues require very specific hanging systems and displaying of your work in a number of interesting ways.

As an experienced art trailer, I have an array of hanging and display materials which I have collected over time. A sensible idea is to bring all of them just in case, and of course your best friend will be bluetack or more specifically….white tack.

Brentwood Art Trail 2024 at Schmidt Kitchens Brentwood

The great thing about trails, is that there are a number of other participants who will promote the event too. They are often really well connected in the community and can give you wider connections. And you just never know what will happen when you’ve got your work out there, sales, commissions and art demos.

Photos from the interior of Schmidt at Brentwood Art Trail

But the summer also means an opportunity to get involved in other outdoor art activities

As a previous participant of this great street art event, I was given the opportunity to have a stall at the party.

What a day. Great art, street art being created in front of our eyes. Great music, we boogied on down (not necessarily something for public consumption). Great food and beer, yum!

I sold an original painting and had a really enjoyable time.

Thanks all

An extra bonus has been that I have exhibited three paintings at “Artists at the Meadows” gallery. What a great place, run by artists

And of course the bi-annual local event, Old Leigh Artists’ Market

However due to the dreadful weather, it had to be rescheduled

But what a glorious day and as ever a really enjoyable event, with sales again. Thank you

This is only the beginning though as I have applied for a variety of open calls for exhibitions, so fingers crossed

And of course some more art trails too

So keep your eyes peeled