Last weekend I participated in le Marché de Noël, a holiday boutique in aid of Ecole Claire Fontaine, a French art and language school in Venice for two to seven year olds. A French friend from the Culver City Art Group invited me. I figured it was a way to put my photos out into the world, so why not?
I displayed some of my earlier work in the form of 20″ x 16″ (51 cm x 41 cm) canvas prints I had made up when there was a promotional sale some years ago. At the time I was so excited about getting back into photography I went a little crazy. But I still love those photos, even though now I see all the mistakes, and they adorn my walls. It was nice to see them out of the house and in a different setting. I didn’t sell any but I did get some very positive feedback.
I sold quite a few of my photo greeting cards which more than covered all the expenses of making them and other expenses for the day. I met some interesting people who tried to speak French to me. Unfortunately all those DVDs fell on deaf ears. Well, I can speak and understand French “un peu” in a controlled situation when I know the context, like walking into a store and asking how much is that scarf? But when somebody walks up to me and starts speaking, I get flustered and intimidated. So I had to keep saying, sorry I don’t understand you!
I liked this photo of me standing next to the red arrow. It means to me that I have to keep moving forward with my photography and not get discouraged.
It was this time of year five years ago that I bought my Canon T3i, a very basic DSLR. At the time I questioned whether this was a good decision. I thought I was too old to start up a new hobby. Every photographer in the universe was way ahead of me. I almost gave up before I started. But then I told myself that in five years I would be five years further along the path. And here I am, indeed, five years on and not doing too badly!
I was really happy that several friends showed up at this event to chat. E and her sister walked all the way from Santa Monica. S took several buses from Westwood. L fought beach traffic and spent 2o minutes looking for a parking space. So I appreciate the effort they made.
The photo below is of a gentlemen who set up his art next to me. He is from Buenos Aires, Argentina, so of course I told him that is where my mother was from. Along with Spanish he also speaks fluent French and English. How do people do that?
He told me he clips photos of people out of magazines that interest him in some way and paints them. I really loved the portrait in the center of the man with turban and beard. The beard was like flowing water. He told me the story of each one. He said he knew he wouldn’t sell anything. He just wanted people to see his paintings. Really, when you are an artist that is what it’s about.
The “ecole” was a lovely setting to be in for the day. I’m glad I decided to be there. Life is good!
December 4, 2017 at 10:04 pm
I love outdoor art festivals, the relaxed atmosphere and likelihood of seeing friends. I don’t get to go often, so I really enjoyed this story and pictures!
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December 6, 2017 at 9:51 am
Thank you! This was a rather last minute decision so I wasn’t well prepared but I had fun anyway!
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December 5, 2017 at 4:08 am
LOL what is important that you continue to explore and get out.. living in Ontario/Quebec, English French is the norm.. You grow up hearing the two languages and that makes a difference My husband who grew up in an area that was more French learned some when younger, so he can understand a lot of it when it is spoke around him, if he is not participating.. The moment he is included.. or da question is directed at him… it is instant freeze.. I got such a chuckle when you expressed that moment for you… because of his experiences, I totally “got it” Bravo.. keep trucking girl… nice artwork too!
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December 6, 2017 at 6:06 pm
Thank you! The other thing that happens to me is when I try to speak French, all I can think of is Spanish. And when I try to speak Spanish, French comes out! I’ll just stick with English!
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December 6, 2017 at 9:39 am
My wiffe and I travelled around doing street markets for many years. It is fun, and work as well. It is never too late to start a new hobby. It helps to keep your mind working.
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December 6, 2017 at 9:49 am
I’ve been in many arts and crafts fairs over the years with my ceramics, frames and mirrors, collages, etc. I keep saying I’m never doing another one… and then I do! Sometimes I think my mind is on overload… but I intend to keep on trucking as long as possible… being idle only turns your brain into mush! What were you selling at the street markets (if you don’t mind me asking…)?
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December 6, 2017 at 9:53 am
My wife was very crafty with needlework of all kinds. That was what was sold. Christmas stuff was very popular. I still have bins of it in her shed. I was just the manual laborer, driver, and part time cashier.
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December 7, 2017 at 1:10 am
Reblogged this on après-pensées.
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December 7, 2017 at 8:24 am
Thank you for sharing the story, Roslyn! Wonderful photos 🙂
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December 16, 2017 at 7:07 pm
Thanks Amy. I appreciate it!
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December 7, 2017 at 1:28 pm
“Really, when you are an artist, that is what it’s all about.” You got that right! I assume you mean artist in the broadest sense, to include all types of creative expression. If you do it with a passion (and at least a measure of talent), you’re an artist, whether or not you’re a pro (or you can fake it and be a con artist — ha ha).
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December 16, 2017 at 7:06 pm
Absolutely. Any kind of creative endeavour, no matter what it is… you have to put yourself out there. Not much of a bible quoter but there’s something about not hiding your talent under a bush. Probably got that totally wrong but you understand the sentiment. Even if it’s writing a blog post!
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December 8, 2017 at 10:50 am
Glad you went and great seeing the photos and your art out in view. Much Love
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December 16, 2017 at 7:03 pm
Yes, it was a last minute decision. But I’m always happier when I agree to do things rather than stay home!!
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December 8, 2017 at 5:08 pm
Truly life is good when we are good to ourselves.Great your decision to participate and show your artwork to the world.You got back what you gave,you met nice people and exchanged nice ideas even in broken French.
Painting and photography are silent,international languages themselves … who needs French or Spanish …
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December 16, 2017 at 7:02 pm
Yes, art is universal. And payback is about the experience. I am often reluctant to participate in anything but I am always rewarded and glad I put myself out there!
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December 9, 2017 at 9:23 am
It’s amazing how you took up a challenge and doing fun things with it! Wishing you all the best for your future endeavours 😃
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December 16, 2017 at 6:59 pm
Thank you so much. Life is all about challenges. Sometimes I’ve failed and sometimes I’ve won. It’s all good experience.
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December 18, 2017 at 8:06 am
Have a great holidays 💕💕
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December 16, 2017 at 9:27 am
it’s a pity I wasn’t there to be your french interpreter…!
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December 16, 2017 at 6:58 pm
Marty, I really needed you. Where were you? All the best to you!
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