Thursday, September 29, 2011

Good Night, And Good Luck...

Those words were the great closing greeting of journalist Edward R. Murrow's news editorials, bidding television viewers everywhere a pleasant day and hope for a better tomorrow. Today, I take that closing remark with a new sense of view and pride, a greeting that I hope will bring me much comfort in the coming months ahead.

Today marks the end of an interesting chapter in the history of Napkin Art Studios, as the gallery I've been working with in Dallas for the last few years is closing its doors at week's end. It's been an amazing run with The Cameron Gallery (as well as Gallerie d'Arte prior) since I've been a resident of Dallas. The time spent with the gallery has brought me much success, artistically and financially, and has allowed me to explore my creativity and artistic vision on levels I thought I'd never reach. Though, like George Harrison once said, "All Things Must Pass", so I look upon the closing of the gallery not in sadness, but as a new opportunity to explore the depths of my abilities to great new, many levels.

For the first time, this moment leaves me without gallery representation in my hometown, but also leaves me with an interesting challenge. What will become of my studio now that I have absolute creative control over what I make, and how it gets seen? I welcome the challenge with open arms and an open mind. The opportunity also leaves me with several other options on my table, options that will have to be taken into serious consideration. Thankfully, the gallery's closing doesn't put me into any kind of awkward financial situation, but it does make me think about what I want for my future as an artist, and what it will ultimately cost me in the end. When one door closes, another opens...

So now, I'm officially a free agent. But, before I start plotting my next moves I do want to take the opportunity to thank each and every person who has come through The Cameron Gallery in support of me and my artistic endeavors. It's an incredible feeling to wake up and know that everyday is filled with the thing I want to do until the day I die, and that my support system is so great that I'm allowed to create and make a living off my art. I couldn't ask for a better existence in life, and I thank everyone whole-heartedly who has supported me, all from a simple kind word to the collection of my art. I hope each and every one of you will continue to follow along with my career, and be a part of the new heights I will achieve. Of course, I also have to thank the gallery itself and everyone who has been an integral part of its operations. You wonderful ladies and gents know who you are, and I owe you the biggest part of my 'thanks'.

I have some major plans in store for the studio in the coming months, after the dust settles a bit and the holiday season is behind me. Part of the major change will involve a bit of rebranding of the studio, both on the commercial side and the fine art/gallery side. I'm really excited to see how everything will unfold and take shape. In the meantime, good night, and good luck to you all. And thanks again...