Recapping the Highlights from My Outdoor Gallery Show: A Journey of Passion and Connection
Earlier this fall, I hosted my first outdoor gallery show in downtown Salmon Arm, a dream I had worked tirelessly to bring to life. It was an unforgettable experience, filled with emotion, connection, and validation of my belief in the power of art. Here’s a look back at the highlights of those two incredible days.
Surrounded by Friends and Family
The show was as much about art as it was about the people who have been with me throughout my journey. Friends and family, some from nearby and others who traveled from far away, came to support me. Some had followed my art for 20 years, offering encouragement along the way. Having them there made the event deeply personal and meaningful.
A Tearful Artist Talk
The first day began with an emotional artist talk that I’ll never forget. As I stood in front of everyone, I couldn’t hold back the tears. I expressed my gratitude to all who came, sharing how taking a chance on myself and my passion for photography had been worth it.
I spoke about why I do what I do—not just for me, but for my family. My husband Joel and our son Maddox, the lights of my life, inspire everything I create. Joel is my rock, supporting me in every way. He helped me build my website, listens to my countless ideas, and steps in wherever needed so I can follow my passion. Whether it’s giving me time to create or cheering me on, his belief in me fuels my journey.
And Maddox—my greatest adventure. Just two weeks before the show, he had taken his first steps. What a treat it was to walk the art show with my little boy. He pointed at the art, saying, “Mumma, picture, water.” He knows what Momma does, and hearing those words melted my heart. I hope that one day he’ll look back and see the beauty in chasing your dreams and embracing what makes your heart sing.
I also talked about moving to the Shuswap, a dream come true for a waterscape photographer like me. This place is heaven, and being here has only deepened my commitment to authenticity in photography—capturing nature as she intended us to see her, with minimal editing. I introduced my new genre of photography, Liquid Artistry, abstract macro photography of moving water that evokes emotion and transports viewers to other realms.
Memorable Connections and Sales
My first sale came from a man who arrived early, even as we were setting up. He didn’t know which piece he wanted but knew he had to have one. That kind of connection is what art is all about—creating something that speaks to people on an indescribable level.
Another visitor stood by my table for an hour, captivated by a piece he described as having an energy that grabbed him. As a music industry professional, he saw music in the flowing patterns of water. Interestingly, he preferred the artwork upside down, proving that abstract art can be appreciated from any perspective.
A woman purchased a large piece after hearing the story behind it, a reminder of how personal narratives deepen the connection to art.
Day Two: A Solo Success
The second day had a different energy. This time, I was on my own, setting up early and lining the art along the fence line for passersby to enjoy. Right away, people began stopping to look, ask questions, and purchase pieces.
One memorable visitor was Annie M Photo, a fellow photographer I had recently met. She stayed for two hours, chatting about photography and life, and even took photos of me and my family. She purchased one of my pieces, sharing that she had never bought another photographer’s art before. That meant the world to me.
I also sold my largest canvas to date: a 40×60-inch print of Bubblegum Ice Cream 2, one of my most popular pieces.
New Opportunities Unfold
The show opened doors I hadn’t imagined. A member of the Shuswap Photo Arts Club invited me to speak at one of their meetings, which I’ve since done as a keynote speaker. Two of my pieces are now hanging in the Vernon Public Art Gallery’s members’ exhibit. I’ve also been invited to two female entrepreneur events and have started showcasing my work on the walls of local businesses and homes.
A Lesson in Creating Opportunities
The goal of this show was to introduce myself to the community, and I did just that. I didn’t wait for an opportunity to present itself—I created one.
What makes this even more meaningful is that I achieved it while balancing a full-time job as a garden manager, raising a young toddler, and carving out just an hour each evening to create, plan, and execute my vision.
Would I do it again? Absolutely.
To anyone wondering if they should take a chance on their passion: believe in yourself, put in the work, and make it happen. This experience was a testament to what’s possible when you follow your heart and trust in your art.
Thank you to everyone who made this journey unforgettable. Here’s to many more shows to come!
