In many ways, I am still processing IX 2025. This was the eighteenth year, and I have been attending since year two. A long time to be involved in multiple cities at multiple locations. Post-COVID life and conventions have been weird, and it feels like it still hangs in the air at events, but this year's IX felt different. There was an energy, an excitement, a feeling, and a vibe I haven't felt in easily five years. This year, it felt like it did before COVID. And it was truly and completely wonderful.
I wish I could put my finger on it, but it was all different for me this year in all the best ways possible. For me, this was a FANTASTIC event this year. I brought everything that I could. The entirety of the Grand Bazaar was on display, and it was all very, very well received. Yes, sales were up over the last few years at IX, but it was much more than just that. I felt like I was connecting better with people. I had a thousand amazing conversations about art and life. I saw so many friends and my heart was refilled. We met so many new people, and people who have been on the fringes of our bubble were brought in. As much as IX is about art, it is also about friends, community, and fellowship. You are among your peers, mentors, coworkers, and patrons for a week, and it was the best time I have had there in a good long while. Not that IX is in any way lacking, but the car troubles of two years ago, the lingering gloom of the COVID years, and the state of the world have had their effects on things. But this year it was all gone for me. I was in a wonderful art bubble for a week, and I want MORE.
I have said it before, and I will continue to say it, IX is a one of a kind event and you owe it to yourself to attend. Do not worry about showing, just go. Be a part of the workshops and panels, tour the galleries, and talk to EVERYONE. There is no other event that gives you this much time and access to working artists. I am already looking ahead to next year.
Here are some images and thoughts regarding this year's IX!
The main section of my booth at IX.
For those who do not know, the rug at IX in my booth is from my studio.
So a portion of home is with me at IX.
Before it looks like the first photo, it looks like this.
Across from the main section of the booth is a second part where I stand with smaller items and my books. I have done similar setups, but nothing this size, and I loved the arrangement. It allowed me to look at my art all week, which is really important for me from time to time. And it allowed me to display everything I brought with me. IX grants me the space to do this, and I couldn't be happier to use it all.
Here is a little video of the booth to get a feel for how everything was set up.
After making a big splash last year in the Showcase, Mietze has arrived at the Main Show.
What started out as a bit of a joke last year has become a well-received experience. Mietze's work really resonates with people, and he was sold out by Friday. Hopefully, he will decide to create a new series moving forward.
A little about the artist.
Now, for a little look around the gallery. I once again did a poor job of photographing everything, but others have taken up that job after I had it for so many years. This is the view to one side of my booth.
And a look out from the other side of my row.
And a look from the front of the fourth-floor gallery I was in this year.
And one more view of the gallery.
The second-floor gallery was amazing... and I apparently took this single photo.
The Warren went to a forever home!
Some of the artist proofs I did at the show this year, with the owl being my absolute favorite.
And just like that... it was all over and the gallery was cleared.
Another amazing week in the books and another awaiting us next year.
Sunday night is a bittersweet time. It is the last time for most of us to really hang out and socialize, and it is the last time we will see one another for six to twelve months. So we laugh, shout, sing, party, and celebrate the week, art, and the ups and downs of a life as an artist. While IX might be galleries full of amazing art, this photo is what makes IX so special. Until next year!
That's all for another exciting Monday on the blog. See you back here on Wednesday! Until then...
For more samples of my work or to contact me regarding my availability, head over to my website: www.christopherburdett.com
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