Before the Booth Opens: A Love Letter to the Festival Day

Mystic Tree of Life • © Artist Penny FireHorse

Before the sun rises, I’m already moving with quiet purpose—packing crates filled with color, gathering display pieces that hold intention, and checking my toolkit with care. There’s a sacred rhythm to these early hours, a blend of stillness and anticipation. Each festival day begins this way, not just with preparation, but with devotion. Though the booth may be temporary, the experience that unfolds there is anything but.
Exhibiting at a festival is more than setting up a space—it’s about showing up wholeheartedly. Each piece I create carries meaning, infused with emotion, memory, and hope. When I arrange my work for display, it’s like opening a door to something intimate and real. Every brushstroke, every texture, every hue is part of a story—and once the gates open, that story becomes a living conversation.

What I’ve come to cherish most is the connection. People come to festivals not only for art, but for feeling—for inspiration, for healing, for joy. Some are searching. Some are celebrating. Some are simply exploring. When someone pauses in front of my work, I meet them where they are. I listen, I hold space, and I welcome their interpretation. In that moment, the art becomes theirs, and something beautiful is exchanged—an energy, a recognition, a spark.

Yes, the practical things matter, too. I keep my booth clean, inviting, and grounded in presence. I bring a mix of original pieces, prints, and hand-painted functional art, because I believe beauty belongs not just on walls, but in everyday life. I care for myself throughout the day—breathing deeply, staying hydrated, and moving with gratitude.

No two festivals are ever the same. Some days are quiet and reflective; others are full of energy and motion. I never know who I’ll meet or which piece will call to them. That mystery keeps me inspired. My role isn’t to predict—it’s to create with openness and allow what’s meant to happen to unfold naturally.
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If you ever feel drawn to one of my booths, I would be honored to welcome you. Come as you are. Take your time. If something resonates, let’s talk. My art is here to support your journey—to offer beauty, healing, and reflection. Each piece is created with care and intention, and behind the booth, I’m simply holding space for you to discover what your heart is ready to receive.