There are so many milestones in our lives. Special moments that seem to add new dimensions to who we are personally and professionally.
The 2008 NIADA Conference in Las Vegas was certainly a significant milestone for me. On Thursday, July 24, 2008 I was elected as an Artist Member of the National Institute of American Doll Artists, NIADA.
What a journey this has been. It's such an honor to be recognized by people whose work I've so long admired and to be included among some of the world's finest doll artists. In many ways I feel at home in NIADA. I've made many friends through past NIADA conferences and shows and this year's annual conference continued the tradition. One of the new people I met was Kate Church, a marvelous doll artist from Nova Scotia who was also elected during the conference. Congratulations Kate! Check out Kate's wonderful work at her Website: katechurch.com Our sales tables were right next to each other. We had a lot of fun as the NIADA "Newbies!" Everyone involved with the conference did a spectacular job. Please take a look at some of the pictures from my NIADA 2008 photo album.
It was my first trip to Vegas. It was hot. I think tourists forget that they are in the middle of the desert.
The temperatures routinely hit 106F. One day it reached 114F. Forget what they say about "dry heat." When you're out on the Vegas Strip, the surface temperature is extreme. Maybe that's why the casinos spray water mist at the entrance and beckon people in with air conditioned slots and gaming tables.
The gallery night was simply superb. Patrons, artists and invited guests mingled and meandered through a delicious landscape of color and creativity.
It was a feast for the senses. Every artist was warm caring and willing to share ideas, stories and insights. It still hasn't quite kicked in that I am a member of this special group of artists. If you can attend a NIADA conference or exhibit, I urge you to go. You won't be disappointed. The next Annual conference is turning out to be amazing. It will be held at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Gatlinburg,TN in early September 2009. This will be a teaching conference with incredible classes and programs offered by many NIADA artists. What an opportunity. The details aren't yet finalized so keep checking back here and the NIADA website for more information on the 2009 conference and other very exciting news.
As much as I enjoyed the NIADA conference, it was good to get back home. Now I can say I've been to Las Vegas. Though I can't say when I'm going back .
Cheers,
Deborah
