As an artist whose primary presence in the art world is online, it's easy to forget about the thriving world around me. As the mother of 3, one with special needs and one still breastfeeding, it sure is more convenient to stick with the internet. But I've known for a long time that I was missing a connection with the local community of buyers and artists. Especially after hearing for the umpteenth time, "Wow! I love your work even more in person, I would've paid twice that," I realized that I need to expand my horizons. However hard it is to make the time, overcome insecurities about my paintings, face rejection...it's long overdue.

I caught the date for this year's Art All Night Lawrenceville just in the nick of time. I've been aware of it in previous years, but always managed to miss it. I am so glad I didn't this year! Art All Night is a grassroots event that takes place each Spring in Pittsburgh and, as it turns out, a great place to test the waters. There are no fees, no jury, no censorship- literally anybody is welcome to submit one (only one) piece of work for the show. And for one night, thousands of people have the opportunity to see it. It works like this: You fill out a brief registration form, drop off your piece at the designated time on Saturday and pick it up at the designated time on Sunday. You're welcome to put a price on the piece, and potential buyers can let you know of their interest by leaving a purchase offer with one of the volunteers. Couldn't be easier, and with an amazing team of volunteers, the process was smooth as could be.

I chose my painting "They Make Great Pets!", mainly because it's what I had on hand & didn't have time to whip up something new. It's a small painting, and had been available (at the same price) online for a few months, with no takers. I wasn't sure, in that huge warehouse, with so much else to see, that it would even be noticed. Nor was that really the point in my mind. But it was noticed. I walked away with a dozen purchase offers, and a couple of leads on potential brick and mortar shows. That certainly renews the confidence! It may be that my work does translate better in person, or it may be that as vast as that space seemed- it's not as vast as the internet. Either way, it definitely gives me new things to consider.

More importantly though, it was pleasure to participate in an event that really celebrates art and community. The affirmation that my community is full of wonderfully creative people and will, voluntarily and enthusiastically, come together in support of the arts, is reward in itself. Bonus: With the performances, activities, tons of art to see and plenty of people around, it's a fun way to spend a Saturday night (or Sunday morning)!

For more information, visit their website: www.artallnight.org