OAEA Conference

I received the nicest note the other day.

“Hi Caren -

I just wanted to tell you again what a tremendous impact you've had on me though I only met you briefly.

My name is Arenda. I met you at the OAEA conference a couple of weeks ago. Not sure if you'll remember me but I am the African american woman who sat right in front of you during your session of the conference where you spoke very passionately about art and your galleries. I asked you about your connection to art. Your answer lit a fire in me that had been out for a long time. Listening to you speak so passionately and candidly helped me to remember what art is to me and what makes me an artist. I rediscovered my "Why" in that moment.

I came to the conference burnt out as an artist and teacher hoping for some rejuvenation. Among many other things over those 2 days, the session with you brought it all together for me. I came away inspired and creatively open again. I can't express in words how that brief interaction with you changed my life.

Thank you so very much.

Arenda E.”

It made me realize why I’m in this business, and how important art is to our lives. Whether you collect or create, art is important. Please, please, please support the arts. If you’re financially able, support by buying. If you’re an artist, help promote the arts as an important part of our community. And if you’re a community leader or politician, please read, research, realize that art brings a huge financial boon to the economy and is an important part of our stability as a city and country. The arts are important.