I type this as I finish the first day of manning the gallery this weekend. In front of me are walls full of art and inspiration. Four different unique approaches, views and finishes. Four different people who draw on life experiences, passions and love of sharing enable me to experience something that has changed my photographic vision looking forward.
I find it hard to put into words the emotions, anxiety, stress and almost naked feeling taking part in an exhibition puts you in. The fear that everybody/nobody will like your work.. the whispers.. the looks.. and the potential for nobody turning up is enough to make your stomach turn.
But the moment your friends and family start turning up on opening night.. seeing your work framed and up in the spot light on the bright white walls.. those fears turn into excitement and a craving for nice white wine.
The opening night was a blast.. with so many friendly faces and friends that I have accumulated from so many different walks of life. I admit I put myself out there, and in the process meet so many awesome people and you all mean a lot to me, and contribute a lot to helping me develop not only as a person, but as a photographer.
So it is here I sit about to close up for the day.. saying farewell to the last people to walk through and I have a massive smile on my face.