USA tour and The Hamptons Fine Art Fair

July 2 – 23
Exploring New York City and Philadelphia 

I attended my very first major art show tour in the USA with representing gallery Morton Contemporary. I landed in New York City, my very first time in this magnetic city. After a day of rest, I was shown around the huge city by art advisor Kim from KHS galleries. After exploring the iconic landmarks, secret lanes and streets, cute little cafes and restaurants and enjoying the movie-like atmosphere, I was off to Morton Contemporary in Philadelphia. A few days to paint, plan and prepare here then the gallery and I were off to the VIP In Style Philadelphia Magazine Event for a live art show and private dinner on the beach front. It was a fancy event, of which I’m definitely not accustomed to. Though I made the most of the views and chats with the wonderful staff at the venue.

After the In Style event I was off to The Hamptons Fine Art Fair where I painted live and met many fans and fellow artists. I spent four days at the fair meeting and greeting amazing fans of my work, selling art, meeting fellow artists, painting live and having a great time. My time at the fair proved to be successful in selling many artworks on site. The last day did however offer a wild weather change. Literally a flood inside the main fair arena took place with a massive downpour of rain flooding through the sides of the venue and filling the gallery floor with muddy water. I rushed to help save up to a million dollars worth of art from damage. My art was fine as it was a higher sectioned booth, though dozens and dozens or works had to be saved from the galleries opposite me. Deb (Morton Gallery owner) and myself rolled our jeans up and took to moving the expensive works out of the flooding area. Thankfully most works were saved. 

Once dry and back in New York we had the opportunity to meet and greet more fans outside the legendary restaurant Tavern On The Green. I had the rare opportunity to paint live out the front of the tavern to the amazement of many fans who had travelled from a far to see the small event. I also had the opportunity to paint live at a ballet studio with live ballerinas posing for me before returning home. 

On a personal note, during this entire trip, I was suffering with the worse sinus infection I’ve had over the years. I do have a sinus condition, which requires surgery every five or so years. But this infection was chronic! I only just made it through the last day with cold, flu, herbal and pain medication suitable to knock out an elephant! As much as I enjoyed the trip, it made me realise I need to prioritise health before show and gallery expectations. Creating artwork after artwork in lead up to the shows and back to back live painting events is great, though rest in between is a must! I will be working on this for next time.