Spring is always a whirlwind, and this year is no different! With my One of a Kind Show (OOAK) in Chicago just weeks away, I’m deep into preparations—packing, planning, and of course, painting. This show has become a cornerstone of my exhibition calendar, and for good reason.
Why the One of a Kind Show Matters
I first participated in April 2019, and since then, it’s been a must on my schedule (except for the Covid years). With 35,000+ visitors over three days, the energy is incredible. It’s an opportunity to connect with returning clients, reach new collectors, and introduce people to my Gemstone Series—so many visitors have never seen gemstones and glass incorporated into artwork before, and their reactions make it all worthwhile!
The show itself is amazingly well-run. The staff at The Mart are welcoming and organized, making the experience smooth for both artists and collectors. This year, I’m excited about my booth location (#3077), which is near the fine art gallery and food courts—prime real estate for foot traffic!
What I’m Bringing
Because my collectors overwhelmingly seek out my Gemstone Series, that’s what I’ll be showcasing. I’ll be bringing about 40 works — I have more wall space than in previous years. One piece I’m especially excited to debut is “Where Sky Meets Sea”—it has a depth and shimmer that photos just don’t capture. I can’t wait to see how it resonates in person!
The Prep Work Behind the Scenes
Preparing for a show of this size is no small task! Here are just a few things on my checklist:
✔️ Book the hotel early—downtown rooms fill fast, and the Holiday Inn (which connects to The Mart via skywalk) is my go-to.
✔️ Organize packing materials—every piece must be carefully wrapped since only The Mart’s dock staff handle artwork upon arrival.
✔️ Plan the display—I sketch out my booth in advance to create a thoughtful layout that maximizes impact.
✔️ Update marketing materials—new business cards, postcards, and signage to keep everything fresh and cohesive.
✔️ Create inventory lists & labels—each painting gets a title card with details, just like in a gallery.
✔️ Test tech & finances—Square reader? Check. iPad? Check. Chicago’s 10.5% sales tax calculated? Check.
✔️ Plan a giveaway!—This year, I’m giving away a 10×10 original piece of art to one lucky visitor who signs up for my mailing list. Super exciting!
✔️ Send out updates—I have a limited number of free tickets I share with collectors, so my mailing list gets first dibs.
✔️ Plan my wardrobe—sounds trivial, but being on my feet for three days straight means shoes are a big deal. Jewelry, too—I like to wear real gems like amethyst, peridot, and topaz to match my artwork.
The Best Part? The Connections
No matter how much prep goes into it, what makes this show special are the people. Past clients return, new collectors discover my work, and every year brings unexpected moments. One that sticks with me? A collector once became teary-eyed because an amethyst piece deeply resonated with her. Those moments remind me why I do this.
What’s Next?
Beyond OOAK, the studio is bursting with new work. I’m currently working on an evening skyline of the Scioto River for my May show at Hayley Gallery in Columbus, and I can’t wait to share it. Meanwhile, the studio soundtrack has been a mix of everything—including Pitbull, of all things! (Who knew he’d be great painting music?)
The next few months will be a beautiful blur of shows, creativity, and connections—and I’m excited to bring you along for the journey!
Your Turn! Let’s Chat!
Have you ever attended the One of a Kind Show? What draws you in when you visit an art show—the uniqueness of the work, meeting the artists, or something else? Let me know in the comments!
If you’ll be at One of a Kind in Chicago, stop by my booth (#3077)—I’d love to see you!
Gina
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