Well, now I’ve gone and done it. At the end of March, I’ll be participating in the Architectural Digest Design Show Addesignshow.com in New York City. I’ll be joining a slew of other producing artists at Pier 94, along with a lot of big manufacturers. Sounds exciting, eh? I have to say, it’s been very revealing.
Preparing for the Show
I liken the process to my daughter June’s insistence last summer that I try out Cowabunga Falls at Splashdown Beach. All my efforts to prepare are like the slow climb to the top of this monster four story waterslide. And of course, I am responsible for carrying my own “vehicle of death,” a slippery, well used mat. As I marched up the hundred or so steps, I recall that this little voice in my head began chirping, “Why are you doing this? You know you don’t have to.”
Challenging this monster was one of those things I kinda did for June. It gave her something to brag about. And doing the show is something for me.
Showtime – March 22nd
Back to Splashdown, upon reaching the top of this slide, somewhere in the clouds, my heart began to pound as I saw the torrents of water rushing down the flume. The youthful attendant instructed me to, “Lay on your stomach, head first and grip the front edge of the mat.” “Really? Can’t I go feet first?” “Nope.” And of course there was a line of eager daredevils waiting to take the plunge. You’re committed and there’s no turning back!
The Aftermath
Once I began my rapid decent to death through this translucent tube with water splashing in my face, I thought, “You’re in for it. You just have to ride it out and see where you end up.” Thankfully I didn’t die. It’s the same thing with the aftermath of participating in this show. Maybe I’ll need to follow up with a hundred potential clients, which really scares me, or maybe none. I don’t know.
So why am I doing this? I guess it’s my way of coming out of the shadows, revealing myself and saying, “Look world, here I am!” Really, it’s to connect with people. I’m venturing into the great unknown and my fears are saying, “What are you doing?” Well, it’s time for them to be quiet. I bought my ticket, so let me have my fun!
Already thinking about next year’s show. I’ll report back and let you know where I end up.