As we look forward to 2018

It is that special time of year again. Parties, shows, gifts, decorated trees, etc. Hopefully this quarter has been a good one for all BOMH members.

First of all I want to introduce myself to those who don’t know me. I am Nancy Koehler. Jewelry artist, painter and current President of the Best of Missouri Hands Board of directors. I have been on the board for several terms in various positions and on several committees. So now I am President.

My goal, from the beginning has been to make the way smoother for artists starting out,  helping artists in the middle and those further along in their art careers.  A big order but it’s a worthy goal. We can’t help everyone but we can try.

In this issue of InTouch, You will get to know your board members.  We are here to serve you, our members.  We encourage you to reach out and touch base with us out in the real world….exhibitions, art shows, special events….we can be found out and about around the state. We are an active bunch of artists and enjoy meeting and hanging out with fellow creatives.

A lot of us will be happy to close the door on the old year of 2017. We hope that 2018 will be bigger and better. We need it to be bigger and better. One way to make 2018 a bigger and better year is to attend the Art Smart 2.0 conference that will be held in Columbia, MO on April 13 & 14, 2018. We will be enjoying fun and frolics on Friday night and a full day on Saturday with stimulating sessions to expand the mind and encourage our artistic paths.  You can visit our website for more information and to register for this exciting event.

I remember the first time I went to conference. I really wanted to know about good shows to do. I remember staying up late in the hospitality room quizzing experienced show artists and taking a lot of notes. I met folks that I have been life long friends with. This is surely one of the great benefits for me. I worked alone a lot and here were my people! It was great. I hope you will consider coming this April to the conference in Columbia. I will be happy to meet you and to share the time with you. Together we can make 2018 a great year for the arts.

There are so many wonderful things about being a member of this terrific organization. I am glad you are here. Wishing you the very best in 2018.

Nancy Koehler