[Kimberly Dow]

The show this is in has been going on either 17 or 27 years now. It is at the Haley Library in MIdland. It is quite well-known and they have the same returning artists every year. I didnt recognize too many of the names because several were western art, but I did recognize Harley Brown of course. They usually sell over 50% of the art and these are good prices. And - they only charge the artist 20%. It is hard to imagine a library having a show like this! This is my second year to see it. I was dropping off ar for a show last year at the Museum of the Southwest and was suprised to see one of Bill's paintings on the front page of the newspaper. You can bet I hightailed it over there. The curator tells me the hardest to sell there are figuratives, but I notice Bill's always sell. He said the western art doesnt go well anymore either - the hot thing there is now landscapes and some animals. He also says because the smae artists return every year (its an invitational show) he hasnt been able to add new ones for quite some time although he has several he'd like to. He said he would walk next door to the museum and see one of mine there, but this show at this point may be out of my league.

Midland has about 100,000 residents, and it is filled with wealth. I''ve managed to get a couple clients there (one who cried yesterday when he saw the painting in progress!) and hope to get more. I was contacted by a charity for children that raises 2 millon in one evening at a black tie ball and auctioneach year. I've donated a small painting and they will be letting me display a portrait and business info. If I can find a proper fru-fru gown I will attend as well. It is held at the Petroleum Club (sounds just too wealthy). Wish me luck!