I want to start out this post by thanking Langley’s own Randy Caine, founder of Hempyz for sponsoring me by giving me the opportunity to have a booth to showcase my art and my even bigger message about being Autistic.
I got dropped off at around 8:05 and got some great help setting up the tent, table and chairs (thanks to Randy again) and then I began setting my art up . Truth be told, I have little experience (other then those two times I set up outside Arts off Main) but I focused and got myself motivated.
Nothing was priced yet. I grabbed some spiky-oval type fluorescent paper cut outs I had got from Dollarama and used some washi (rice paper tape) that was fairly low tack and folded little circles that I affixed to the corner of some of my pieces. Depending on how the art was set up, my placement varied. I had purchased them ages ago and was pleased to actually use something I bought! (Artists and crafters know this can be a rare occurrence!!)
I honestly don’t know why i’m holding my wrist in this shot, I think it was my nerves getting the best of me.
I reorganized my table several times. I did sell a few small items, magnets being the most popular. I’m not sure if i’ll want to do this kind of thing again for a few reasons but if I do I would focus more on small 5.00 items like the magnets–a proven seller. They seem to be a way to get people to display my art in the easiest way possible, displayed on their fridge!
I felt lucky to have started the conversation about Autism by having my banner up and my information signs.
If anything my sign on the left would stop people as they were walking by. I feel like I met some incredible individuals by really putting myself out there. Some of the connections I made were absolutely invaluable. Of course, with all that positivity I did hear some ones’ negative comments to their spouse while walking by, but I had to try to breathe and relax.
Another highlight was meeting my Autistic inspiration Amythest Schaber. They are responsible for making informative and insightful videos and blog posts that help educate those who are neurotypical and even those on the spectrum. I believe everyone would benefit from spending time watching the videos.
Cats were the most popular, I SHOULD HAVE FIGURED! I’m not the only Cat-obsessed weird individual out there, I suppose.
Nothing will stop me from making Art. I will NEVER stop being Autistic.
-Margaux
Navigating Life 