Thoughts on the National...

[bobfreedman]

Greg, while I understand your situation, I do believe that you should attend the Nationals and here is why,
I never would have known who you were prior to meeting you at the Nationals five years ago and had I not met you, I would have never seen your work in person. Don't get me wrong, your pictures that you post of your paintings are great but, there is nothing like seeing them in person. You cannot overstate how important word of mouth is either i.e. Friends telling friends and the publicity you receive from being there etc...

Have you thought about possibly partnering with a few of the companies attending the Nationals and placing your artwork at several of them and work with them on consignment? Also, maybe do a raffle or two at the Nationals working with Mike Berkus (the head honcho that runs the show)?

I do not know how much it costs you and Dean to attend and I am sure you have calculated how many of the small paintings you would have to sell to break even, so I can't tell you if I think it is feasible but, I do believe those painting would sell better than the more expensive and larger painting.

Thanks and again, I hope you can attend, IMHO

[Scott Garner]

FWIW, I totally agree with many of the points that Mark and Bob just posted.
Additionally, I believe that the value of you attending The National is for you the artist to "cast a larger net" which will reach collectors that still do not know about your incredible work.

I must admit that I commissioned a painting with you before I ever saw your work in person. As a person that really appreciates painting per se (I love many different styles), I believe that this opportunity would be huge, plus I really like you as a person having worked with you now.

I hope to see you in Cleveland this year, although my time there is going to be very brief due to other obligations.

Keep up the incredible work.
All my best,
Scott