Celebrating the Art Community

One of the most unexpected joys of this journey into the art festival world has been the incredible community of artists we’ve met along the way. From our very first show to now, after seven festivals, the friendships and connections we’ve built have been nothing short of amazing.

When we first started this adventure, we had no idea what to expect. Setting up a booth, learning the ins and outs of festival life—it was all new territory. But the artist community welcomed us with open arms. They’ve shared tips, advice, and plenty of “do’s and don’ts” that you just don’t find in any guidebook. It’s been a crash course in business, resilience, and connection.

Robert Copeland

This is not an easy business. There are days when things don’t go well—when sales are slow, and you start questioning whether this was the right life choice. You watch other artists selling piece after piece while you’re still waiting for your first sale of the day, and that doubt creeps in. Is anyone interested in my work? Will we even cover the expenses of this show?

And then… the next day happens. Suddenly, the traffic is at your booth, and you can’t keep up with the orders. That’s the art festival world—completely unpredictable. Highs and lows that can change in an instant.

But through it all, one thing remains constant: the people. Our fellow artists have been there for us every step of the way. We’ve shared stories of family, kids, struggles, dreams—everything from parenting tips to conversations about bankruptcy fears. When sales are slow, when you’re standing in the rain, when you’re wondering if you should keep going—there is always someone nearby who says, “Tomorrow will be another day.” And guess what? They’re always right.

One of the very first things we do after setting up our booth at any festival is take a walk around, reconnect with old friends, and meet new ones. These are great people, sharing the same dream, the same adventure, the same unpredictable journey. And what stands out most is that everyone genuinely wants each other to succeed.

What sparked this post is something deeply meaningful to us. One of the first artists we ever met, Robert Copeland, is getting ready to retire. In such a short time, Bob and his wife have made an incredible impression on us. They’ve been kind, encouraging, and generous with advice—always going out of their way to help the “new couple” trying to figure it all out.

After this year’s Marietta Art in the Park festival, Bob gave me one of his beautiful pieces (pictured above) as a way to remember him. Denise and I were so touched by this gesture—it truly moved us. That piece will have an honored place in our home, a reminder of the friendships and generosity that define this journey.

So here’s to Bob and his lovely wife—we wish you nothing but the best in retirement. And maybe someday, Denise and I can pass along the same kindness and wisdom to the next new artists just getting started.

Here’s to the journey. Here’s to those who walked it before us. And here’s to those who will come next.