But is it important to sell? Some artists do not expose or sell, being emotionally attached to their own product, and for that reason unable to part from it. The result should be disastrous: an accumulation of art that probably is only known to a small circle of a happy few. I do recognize that some works have such special meaning for me that I do not want to part from them. However, this is an exception, applicable to just two or three, while regarding all other works, parting is no problem for me. And apparently these artists do not depend on their art production for their income, fortunately, being a ‘part-time’ artist, neither do I.
However, the idea that someone is willing to pay for your product is of course important; it is a form of recognition and appreciation that contributes to one’s self-esteem. My reason for exposing and selling is however rather pragmatic: I have to many works and too little space (especially in our small home in Leiden!), so in order to paint new works some others have to leave.
The exhibition itself is as well contributing to some measure of social or public recognition. It is a social event for artists and art-related people. The exposition may incite some art critic to give his/her views on my work, a feedback that would be most welcome.