Last weekend I attended what seemed to me to be a re-creation of the salons of a century ago — a gathering of writers and visual artists, drawn together to enjoy an evening exchanging ideas. It was a houseful of “movers and shakers” from across the state and, as a model for connection between peers, an inspiration.

Sedeveria 2     ©2015 Elizabeth Fram

Parts of the evening extended far beyond my comfort zone. As a guest of one of the invitees, in a gathering of 50+ people I didn’t know, I found it awkward to insert myself into the tightly animated circles of folks who were busy reconnecting. I am much more at ease, as I think many are, when I have the advantage of knowing at least a small handful of people at a party.

But, and this is a huge but, it was worth the stretch. The evening began with three 20-minute presentations by Vermont artists whose names are each impressively adorned with an awe-inspiring set of credentials and honors. The first talk was by one of our hosts, Alisa Dworsky, an architect whose artistic practice also spans drawing, printmaking, sculpture and installation. Next was artist/designer/educator Matthew Monk, who spoke about his collages of found refuse, culled on daily walks. The third and final presenter, artist and writer Sayward Schoonmaker, works with language, expressing it in such a way that it crosses dimensions.

Sedeveria     ©2015 Elizabeth Fram

I had studied their websites and combed the internet to read what I could about their work beforehand, but even so, there is no substitution for being able to hear an individual describe in person the ideas and means behind their work. Inflection tells a story you cannot glean from print. Not only can one gain a greater understanding of what is being presented, but a vibrant discussion provides greater potential for drawing parallels between elements from their experience and your own, resulting in deeper understanding via that connection.

Despite being a bit of a fish out of water, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience the occasion. Ultimately, I met and had brief discussions with several people I’m sure I never would have crossed paths with otherwise. Admittedly, I still have work to do on navigating the fine art of “cold call” social schmoozing, but that’s okay.

Bittersweet Vase     ©2015 Elizabeth Fram

In hindsight, when I was researching the evening’s presenters I should have thought to ferret out this article by Alyson Stanfield about mingling at art openings and parties. At least now I have the link for future reference…and you do too.