How did you do it?

Jeff, I think it's just the setting isn't really art-related. Even with your wife, I would feel awkward. But if I saw you at any arty function, I'd be far more receptive. If, for instance, you were drawing people in the park, showing your work at a gallery, etc. If you already had a stick of charcoal in your hand that would be helpful.

I get similar reactions when I ask people to model for me. I'm about 5'1", blonde, and I look a lot like Sandy Duncan I'm told. So when I stride on up to my favorite kind of model (tall, dark, and voluminous) and squeak "Hey, lady, I like your face. Wanna come over and let me take pictures?" I get lots of surprised responses.

That's not really what I say, but that's how I figure they're hearing it. Thing is, I usually meet models at the local bar, at 2 in the morning. But maybe I'm saying too much.

So, to veer back onto topic, networking is a huge asset. But if you're painting children, try to clothe yourself in as much credibility as possible. Meet people in church, through friends, at art functions, etc. Everyone else is fair game - you could say the same thing to a group of women, a young couple, an older couple etc and have them be flattered. But lots of us are irrationally protective of our tiny humans, and probably will stay that way.