Illuxcon 2011

My Stand

I returned from Illuxcon just  a week ago, and whilst it has taken nearly that long to physically recover from the travel, jet lag, and late nights, I still feel fired up by the great experiences I had.

A Blank Canvas

I was one of the first to arrive at the venue, where I added my art-laden suitcases to the crate that was already waiting for me. There was a real buzz beginning to awaken in the heritage center, and I was keen to get my work out and on display.

!!!

Though my first step was to see if the paintings had made it in their original form...

The Show Opens

It is an incredibly impressive space when it is full to bursting with awesome original artwork. Additionally the great benefit of the show is that the restricted numbers mean that I also had plenty of time to browse, and chat to the other artists. As always I was delighted by how open and friendly everyone is; working alone in the studio can be isolating, and getting to chat so freely to other artists about their work and processes is genuinely inspirational.

An Overview

The show itself is only a portion of what is on offer. Throughout the days lectures, panel and demos are ongoing; all of which  offer some new insight or observation. On the Friday there was also the showcase, which acts as an overflow exhibition for more artists that couldn't quite squeeze into the main space. Furthermore all the socialising spills over late into the night as everyone gathers in the hotel bar and lobby.

It was a busy, and very rewarding event, but with a relaxed genial atmosphere. I had  a great time sharing work experiences with the other artists, students and collectors; many of whom I consider to be very good friends, even I only get to spend facetime with them once or twice a year at places like this.

Now I just need to put my inspiration into practise, by producing the best work I can, whilst beginning to look forward to next year.