Last week, I did something that pushed me way out of my comfort zoneโI entered my artwork in the Kingfisher County Fair. For someone who usually prefers the behind-the-scenes role of covering stories and photographing events, this was a very different experience.
It all started with a little nudging from my artsy friends. They not only encouraged me to enter but also helped me track down frames and mats for each piece and patiently walked me through which categories to choose. At the last minute, after a well-timed text from a friend, I decided to enter The Eye, a mixed media piece I had stashed away months ago. Rose helped me find a frame the day before submissions were due, and like magic, it suddenly looked ready for prime time.
Once our vehicles were loaded with art, we drove across town with the delicacy of bomb squad drivers, praying no one pulled out in front of us. (Note to self: bubble wrap is my friend.)
Submitting the Work
Walking into the submission hall, I was met by a group of cheerful ladies who seemed genuinely excited to see each piece that came through the door. Their encouragement calmed my nerves, which had been running high. As I waited, I indulged in a bit of people-watching. Kids proudly hauled in their projects, quilters unfurled colorful masterpieces, and rows of neatly lined jars of preserves begged the judges for a blue ribbon.
Of course, no event is complete without a couple of โHarriett Olsensโ or โGladys Kravitzesโ lurking around. (If you grew up in the โ70s, you know exactly the type I mean.) Thankfully, their whispers were drowned out by the joy of seeing so much local talent on display.
Fair Food & Sauce Spills
The Lions Club showed up to help with the 4-H fundraiser, and I joined in, assembling boxed meals while steaks sizzled on the grill. I quickly learned that some of my fellow Lions take the art of packing cookies, chips, and sauce cups very seriously. Unfortunately, I failed the sauce test. Being left-handed, I blamed the โright-handedโ cups when I spilled some barbecue on the floor. Luckily, they didnโt fire me, and we all had a good laugh before carrying on.
The Ribbon Results
When it was all said and done, I came home with three first-place ribbons and a second-place ribbon for The Eye. But honestly, the ribbons werenโt the highlight. What mattered most was that The Eye struck a chord with people. For me, itโs more than just a piece of artโitโs a reminder that Jesus is always watching over us, offering love even when we fall short. Yes, even Mrs. Olsen and Mrs. Kravitz are included in that grace.
A Sweet Bonus
One of my favorite moments came from a pencil drawing I had entered of little Violet Snow. I thought it would be fun to hand her the ribbon if it placed, but I didnโt have toโbecause Violet earned her very own ribbon! At just three-and-a-half, sheโs already diving into art thanks to her grandma Denise and the Kingfisher Libraryโs summer art programs.
Violetโs imagination runs wildโshe tells her family that โBonโ (thatโs me) lives at the library, that I sometimes dress up as the Grinch, and that Ursula is real and lives in the ocean. I canโt argue with herโif the library is where she sees me most, then I guess sheโs not wrong.
Looking Back
In the end, entering the fair wasnโt really about ribbons at all. It was about stepping out, being willing to share something personal, and soaking up the joy of community creativity. I laughed, I spilled sauce, I watched kids light up as they showed off their work, and I got to see art through new eyes.
For me, thatโs the real prize.
About The Author
