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Artists often work in seclusion. We spend long hours in our studios, tucked away from supporters, fans, friends, and family. Without anyone nearby to bounce ideas off of—or to reassure us that what we’re creating will resonate with others—it’s easy to feel disconnected. That’s why I encourage every artist to step out of the studio, with their work in hand, at least once a year. The lessons you learn from doing so are truly invaluable.

“Socializing with your artwork” can take many forms: exhibiting in a gallery, participating in an art association show, setting up at a market or art fair, or even placing a small table in your neighborhood just to share your work with those who live around you.

A couple of weeks ago, I had the honor of crawling out of my own studio to share the artwork and home goods I’ve been creating over the past year with visitors at the 36th Annual Strathmore Holiday Museum & Makers Market. The crowd was warm and kind, and the three-day event flew by in a blur of laughter, conversation, and meaningful moments.

Here are just a few memorable takeaways from my hundreds of conversations with visitors, artists, volunteers, and staff:

1. Creative energy is contagious. Connecting with fellow participating artists—and reconnecting with artists I hadn’t seen in years—was incredibly energizing.

2. A heartfelt moment I’ll never forget: A woman told me she has one of my paintings hanging in her dining room. Her family looks at it every night during dinner, and they love it. She thanked me for creating it.

3. Crowdsourced inspiration! I received a mountain of recommendations for new bakeries to explore, artists to follow, and art events to look into. I’m still working through the list!

4. Watching people connect with my work is the greatest gift. One visitor said my art will “make you smile when you walk by.” Another shared that my painting reminded her of her grandmother who passed. Those comments will stay with me forever.

5. An unexpected education: I had a fascinating conversation with a staff member in the marketing department about copyright law—an area I’m always trying to learn more about.

So why was this experience invaluable—beyond the sales? Because witnessing people connect with your work is profoundly fulfilling. It nourishes the ego in the healthiest way and fuels your desire to keep creating. It also gives you real-time insight into what resonates with people, what they’re drawn to, and what they’re willing to invest in.

Most importantly, human connection matters. People love talking about art—it’s lighter than politics and far more interesting than small talk about the weather. By participating in at least one public art event each year, you sharpen your studio practice, discover new resources, and walk back into your creative space with renewed confidence.