Sadly I heard this week that the Selection Committee did not choice my Mixed Identity 3 artwork for the Summer Exhibition 2013 at the Royal Academy of Arts. Well, at least I gave it a go and there is always next year.

On the same note: Yesterday I heard that though I was shortlisted, down to the last 9 students, I have not been awarded The Batsford Prize. Oh well you have got to be in it to win it. I am glad I gave it a go and feel optimistic for future awards.

I was so proud of my exhibition last night at my private view. 82 guests turned up which is fantastic. The theatre being on at the same time added to the buzz, many of the audience wondered around the exhibition  before hand and during their interval. People were queuing up at one point to get in the door, not to mention fighting for parking spaces! Several of my guests mentioned this in an excited ‘wow the place to be’ attitude.

Four of The University of Chichester fine art lectures turned up, all of whom are practising artists and each commented on the high standard of the show. This is excellent for my professional practise and development and should give me ‘Brownie Points’ in my MA modules.

Having an exhibition and private view at The Spring as my prize for winning the art competition ‘Grow Your Own’ in 2011 has been very exciting and a massive step in the right direction of becoming an independent credible artist.

This is my first solo show and I am marking it down as a success. I have sent thanks to The Spring staff and trustees for their generous prize, installation, organisation and hospitality . Thanks to everyone who turned up to show support, my family who helped entertain my guests and to my eldest daughter who was photographer for the night. (Her 6″ heels gave an advantage point for a good snapshot!)