It can be worthwhile every now and again to set ourselves a challenge and do something that’s outside our comfort zone. At least, that was my thinking when I booked a spot for the outdoor Sunday art market on May 11th for the Midleton Arts Festival. I have done live portrait caricature in the past and decided to once again give it a go. Praying for a fine day, (and thank heaven the sun shone) I arrived with my table, chairs and art supplies. Luckily one of the festival organisers had a spare gazebo to provide me shelter in case of rain.
There was a lovely atmosphere in the Farmers Market area near SuperValu, which was now busy with stallholders selling painting, jewellery, woodwork and other craft items. Musicians and poets played and performed throughout the day adding to the festive vibe in glorious sunshine. In due course I had my first client when the parents of a little girl in her buggy asked if I would draw her wearing her cute sunglasses. She was so good and sat quietly while I worked to capture her likeness. That broke the ice and I was kept busy with other requests. Three siblings even squashed together on borrowed chairs while I drew them!
Although I had some reservations beforehand (would it rain, would anyone actually be interested in getting a caricature?), I was really glad to have made the effort. Whether people do arts and crafts, sport, join a couch to 5K group or simply resolve to go for a walk a few times a week, it’s certainly good to challenge ourselves every now and then!
If you’re interested in art classes, follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/frazzledmammy, visit my website at frazzledmammy.com/art-classes, or contact me at 087 6684021 for more information.