Gillian Lee Smith: Ladybay Open Arts Weekend

Wow what a wonderful weekend! A fantastic local event with many local venues including the school, church, hall and a multitude of houses open as galleries, lots of stalls selling quality handmade creations, tea, cake and fine weather on the Sunday.

I was based along with my work in the school which they had done a fantastic job of disguising with these walkways to display artwork. I have to admit to feeling a bit down at the end of the first day after no sales but things sure perked up for the Sunday.

Sylvia and Hermione are now residing in a wonderful Edwardian home in Nottingham after being spotted by a delightful young girl who literally dragged her mother from her conversation to come and look. It was wonderful to see their reactions and incredibly generous comments. The debate whether to take one or both "yes mummy we have to take both, one for me and one for you...." and the incredible opportunity that has now been presented as a result of this meeting which I shall reveal to you once the work is completed!!! (oh I am hopeless at holding things back!! but I shall on this occassion) Anyway I have heard since that the dolls are now at home on either side of an edwardian mantlepiece so I know they are very much at home! (excuse the italics - typepad will not allow me to change back)

So a few more sales, lots of chatting with lots of lovely visitors, meeting wonderful artists (check out this lovely ladies incredible artwork!), an entire box of moo cards given out and just a general feeling that, yep, I am the right path, all made for a wonderful weekend.

So with no imminent projects in the next couple of weeks (althought lots of future events to confirm and pay for, oh dear) I am excited about sewing in the loft space and painting in the studio once again.

Oh and with a 40th birthday to look forward to this weekend (40! How can mark be 40!) I am able to take some time out as 'us' time has been severely lacking in recent weeks with all the events I have been involved with. I sure am making up for it though with what is proving to be a very extended birthday celebration over the weekend! ...... tickets bought for an outdoor performance of Mark's very favourite Shakespearean epic (really hoping the rain holds off) , a visit with friends, a day out here and then a visit to his family! Honestly, and Mark says I am always working... still with no summer holiday, we think we deserve some time out.

Oh so much more I could write, but instead I shall finish there and wish you good-day! Wishing you a wonderful week and happy times!!

PS I shall be busy making more dolls and hopefully working on some new originals so will be announcing a Shop update in the near future.