Since a month ago, a lot has been happening with the second year of hosting this yearly event, ArtiestenTour Tervuren. Seven years ago, it was only a dream, I use to wonder if anyone would ever truly admire or even buy my artwork. Back then in 2020 painting was simply a hobby. But as a time went on, I realized that dreams only become reality when they are build on hard work, belief, and the courage to keep moving forward.
Today, seeing my artworks find new homes is a reminder that every small step, every doubt, and every effort was worth it. What have i achieved and learned during this exhibition?
Selling art is never easy. Even if I welcomed more than 100 visitors a day, it didn’t necessarily mean my artworks would be sold. I learned that every conversation, every connection, and every person who stops to appreciate my work is already part of the journey. This experiences reminded me to stay patient, keep creating, and continue believing in my artistic path.
During certain moments throughout these four days of exhibition, I found myself feeling deeply lonely, insecure, disappointed, and unexpectedly triggered by some of the expectations I had quietly carried.
The loneliness surfaced when I noticed the absence of many people from my close circle and professional network. It also emerged through moments of questioning the effort I have devoted to this artistic path, and even the growth I have made along the way. Because this exhibition held such significance for me, I realized how much hope and meaning I had attached to it.
At the same time, I remain deeply grateful for those who showed up, offered their support, and shared this experience with me. I am learning to complain less and appreciate more for now. Thank you Ain.
Perhaps what this experience revealed most clearly is not failure or disappointment, but my own vulnerability—the insecurities that arise when something matters deeply. This exhibition meant more to me than I had fully acknowledged, and with that came expectations, hopes, and moments of doubt. Yet alongside them, there was also gratitude, growth, and a reminder of why I continue choosing this artistic journey.
One of the most valuable lessons from this exhibition was learning the importance of manners, hospitality, and how I approach and engage with visitors. To be honest, much of what I learned from my first profession as a sales associate at Boss proved incredibly helpful throughout this event.
The skills I carried from that role have continued to shape and strengthen me in this second profession as an artist. Greeting people, building genuine connections, understanding the purpose of each interaction, and knowing how to conclude conversations gracefully are all lessons that have stayed with me. In many ways, the way I present myself is inseparable from the way my artworks represent me.
There were moments during the exhibition when I felt emotionally and physically drained, making it difficult to greet and socialize with everyone as fully as I would have liked. To those who may not have received my attention, especially during the busiest moments when many visitors arrived at once, I sincerely apologize.
Nevertheless, I am grateful for every conversation, every visit, and every person who took the time to engage with my work. Each interaction has taught me something valuable, and I hope to continue growing—not only as an artist, but also as a host, communicator, and human being.
Proudly, I would like to share some of the moments I was able to capture during these four memorable days of the exhibition. While these images tell part of the story, many beautiful moments remain unphotographed and carried only in memory. There may be more stories and experiences to share soon, as I will be participating in another event in just two weeks’ time. Until then, thank you for your support, presence, and encouragement throughout this journey. If our paths do not cross again before then, I look forward to seeing you at the same event next year.
