Preparing for Surtex for the First Time...

Hello!
Where did April go? it seems to have disappeared from this blog!
Actually it didn't disappear - more like the time for writing blogs disappeared last month.  
On top of the school holidays, Easter celebrations, a couple of birthdays in our family - I have been working hard to put together a folder to send to my agent in time for Surtex in New York at the end of this month (May 21st to 23rd)....

This is my first ever experience of Surtex, which for those of you not in the know, is one of THE major global trade shows for surface design and art licensing, or as they describe themselves: 'The Marketplace for Original Art & Design'  

As much as I would LOVE to be there in person, it's just not possible for me to get to New York right now, so I am forever grateful that my agent, Elise Rosenthal, has given me this opportunity....

This time last year, having my work on show in any form at Surtex seemed like a distant dream.  It was one of the goals I was working towards (I'd even written it down, a proper solid goal)... but I believed it would take a few years to achieve, not least because I didn't think I had the right body of work ready yet....

 
​Then out of the blue, toward the end of last year, I had lots of conversations with Elise and ended up signing with her agency Rosenthal Represents to represent me for art licensing work, especially in the US.  So, from October until now, I have been working continually, alongside my other work commitments, to build a portfolio of work for her.  
There's nothing like having a solid deadline to motivate action and get things done!....

From where I was at the end of September until now, I have been pleasantly surprised to discover that I was able to put together a full Surtex book of work that I am happy to show.  I hadn't realised how much we'd put together in such a short space of time.  

I know I have lots to do in the coming year and can clearly see where the gaps are in my portfolio.  I can also see what work needs tweaking and with the help of my agent, what needs developing to make it more marketable.  All in all it feels like I am moving forward positively with my creative work which feels really great....

I've never had an agent before, but am really happy that I have chosen Elise as she has so much art licensing experience and is generous with her feedback and guidance.  It's only been a few months of working together, but I can feel my work developing and I am learning loads which is the best thing of all -  I never want to stop learning!

You'll find Elise and my Surtex book, alongside the books from the other wonderful artists with Rosenthal Represents at booth 2829 at this years show.

I hope you have enjoyed seeing a little taste if what I have been working on.  If you are an art director or buyer interested in viewing my online licensing portfolio, please use the contact form on this site to drop me a message and I will let you know the password to view that section of this website.

Have a lovely week!
​Best wishes

Angie