7-Exhibitions

I began exhibiting in the 2000s in Brussels where I lived for many years.

It was a bit nerve-racking.

I learnt how to take a hit when people don’t like what you do or not understand what you have painted. I mean, you overhear negative comments, but isn’t it about finding your tribe?

I learnt to accept that what I hang up on a wall for others to view is just the moment to say to the world ‘take it or leave it’.

I learnt that people are very curious in general.

I learnt that a huge number of people who come to exhibitions are people who they themselves paint or would like to be painters.

I learnt that some other artists are hugely competitive and wouldn’t hesitate to knock you behind your back without blinking an eyelid.

I learnt that people you know buy your art just to be supportive not necessarily because they like what you do. To be honest I would prefer they didn’t.

I learnt that you must stay humble as there are always far more impressive artists out there than you.

I learnt that I don’t want to have to do an exhibition where someone else chooses the theme.

Would I do it again? I guess I will, because I might learn something.