Setting up 18 studios, Long Eaton, Nottingham

Varnishing Day at the Royal Academy was an experience. I was probably in a room of full of important people, but the only one I recognised was Grayson Perry. With over 11,000 entries approx 500 were hung. Another 500 pieces were by invited artists. Mine was pretty central, in the room full of little pictures, just above head height, so not in the heavens :)My only regret was wearing girlie shoes which scoured my heels. I am still suffering. The next show at HMS is approaching. As drawing is an important part of my practice I’m really excited about Robert Luzar’s exhibition (4th – 25th July). Robert has also agreed to participate in a discussion about drawing on Sunday 4th July from 2:00pm which is brilliant! See http://www.grammee.org.uk for more info about the artist. I’ve just signed up to be an associate member of Backlit. They are an energetic and proactive group and I’m very excited and proud to be involved with them. I drop off work today for the first project, an exhibition starting on 17th June.

I sometimes worry that my blog is a bit negative with all the legal rubbish that’s kicked off. So it was a relief to read Becky Hunter’s comments … and that my experiences haven’t put her off setting up studios etc in the US. Because really, despite everything we would do it again.

Things are looking up for a number of reasons. The porch which leaks every time we have a downpour is being replaced in a fortnight. I don’t look forward to the work but I won’t miss the polystyrene tiles, the plastic door and the buckets. I’ve also booked train tickets for the Royal Academy Summer Show Varnishing Day. I’d never heard of it before but it sounds like an experience. The selection has really lifted my spirits. .