To pull a “Fight Club” reference, the first lesson to be learned in an event such as a Grand Opening, is that there is always a lesson to be learned.  My primary lesson for this event: just breathe; it will be ok.

The 24-hours prior to our event were pretty chaotic, which I’m sure is pretty typical.  Due to extenuating circumstances, we were not able to arrange or hang the art until Thursday afternoon/evening.  While the artists did their thing, the rest of us were cleaning furniture, painting trim, running errands.  Just breathe, I kept telling myself, it will all get done.

Here are some pics of the process:

The pieces sit, waiting to be hung.

Doug finishes up the trim on the plum wall.

The exhibit begins to take shape.

By Friday morning, it was apparent–with both West Coast Tacos and our caterer unable to attend–that we were going to have a severe shortage of the snacks I promised.  I put out an urgent plea via text and was so blessed to have members of our community bring things.  We ended up with so much that we didn’t have enough table space!  Thank you to those of you who came to our rescue!

The opening itself went smashingly.  We saw nearly 150 people from all walks of life and places in Indy; it was such a pleasure to meet them and introduce them to our Gallery and vision for the space.

Our new sign!

Jeff Litsey talks with visitors Scott and Charlie.

Enjoying refreshments and conversation.

Visitors enjoying the exhibit.

When all was said and done, the joy of the opening far outweighed the chaos preceding it.  I am so excited to see how this dream continues to develop!