The Angel Snakes made their debut on the exhibit circuit yesterday. Some folks responded with puzzlement, others with indifference, some with joy, and a few with passion. The passionate ones were the children. One little girl came close to creating a scene unless her mother would get her one. I can tell that she is a discriminating collector.
Flanked by digital photo frame, small signs, and a booklet explaining their history and habits, Numerous little Angel Snakes sat quietly on a simple display of wire panels, silvery cloth, and hot pink tulle. I was unable to attend. Check out their version of the event at Angelsnakes.com.
HOWEVER, I was virtually present through Skype on a Mac laptop. From 10:00 AM until 2 PM, I sat in front of my computer in Galveston and met and talked with folks in Lawrence, Kansas. My husband had set up his Mac on the exhibit table. Each computer has a camera in the lid and we had video phone for the whole four hours. We all had a wonderful time. I met new people and visited with old friends, discussed the weather in Galveston and explained a bit about the Angel Snakes.
I learned a few things from this virtual experience. It is good to have a live human to introduce the person online. Some folks thought I was a movie. One person said, "They sent me over here to talk to you. I was expecting a person." The mike was open, so I could overhear everything that was said in front of my exhibit. Nothing shocking, but it did give me some ideas. When I met folks, I could ask if they were on Facebook and immediately friend them as we talked.
We all had a very positive experience. If I ever again find myself unable to be physically present to present my art, I will definitely go the virtual route.
