I survived the Moss St. Paint-In

by Susan Schaefer

Exhilarating, Exciting, Exhausting are a few adjectives that describe this artists’ experience at the 32nd Annual Moss St. Paint In on July 20th in Victoria BC. As a first time participant, I didn’t know what to expect. Jeff and I decided to go to Victoria the night before and ‘make a night of it’.

I wanted to keep my setup simple awhile showcasing my West Coast paintings. The challenge was to pack everything into our Kia Niro. I ordered new 5 foot display racks from Matthews Displays in Victoria as they would fit into the back of the car. A tent, two chairs, racks, tables, magazines, and paintings, (don’t forget the paintings). It was snug, but everything made it into the car.

Show time was 11:00 am. As I looked up the street and saw the masses descending, my heart skipped a beat or two. As the day progressed, we talked to many, many folks, friends and fellow artists. I even had a surprise visit from 3 of my cousins, 2 of whom I had never met before! That made my day!

Along with my artwork we promoted the Island Arts Magazines. Ten minutes before the show ended, a lady rushed into the booth and said, “I have to have that painting.” She had been there earlier and had fallen in love with a piece. When she left with her new treasure, she said “See you next year.”

It was FUN and I hope to have the chance to do again. Big thanks to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, and TD Bank and all those amazing volunteers who helped put on this event. Good Job!

What would we do differently next year? Pack some snacks and stay for the beer gardens.