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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v07n16)
Right in my Own Backyard - Lessons from the State Fair - by Brandt Carter
posted: Aug. 06, 2010

Right in my Own Backyard header

Lessons from the State Fair

The thrill of competition, the challenge of preparation, the agony of defeat - yes, it's State Fair time again. This is the Big One for competition in Indiana; winners signify the best in Indiana livestock, produce, cooking, art, photography, sewing, and various other categories. Anything with a blue ribbon - or better yet, grand champion distinction - receives admiration and yes, qualifies for bragging rights. I have won, and I have lost.
I learned about State Fair competition long ago. When I was young, I was lucky to have a mother who willingly drove us to no end of lessons, taught Sunday school, and led Girl Scout troops and 4-H groups. I didn't last long in 4-H, but the life lessons I learned were important: plan, prepare, compete, and win or lose gracefully. When I was in 6th grade, I entered an apron with novice stitchery and a plate of cookies. Having chosen the categories I would enter, I then had the tasks of completing the application form, delivering my entries, and anticipating the judging. I didn't win but that didn't squelch my inclination for future attempts.
Years later the bug to compete bit me again. I would spend hours and hours reading the catalog of possible State Fair entries in the dreary days of January. The process was somewhat akin to losing myself in a Sears catalog. Some possibilities could be ruled out without much consideration as I had not the remotest inclination toward livestock, scarecrows or knitting. I finally decided to make a run at competition with my paintings and drawings. For a couple years I even tried my hand at pie baking and cake decorating.
When my son was young, I entered some watercolors and paintings. That year I won a ribbon, and I was hooked! My winning entry was a very detailed drawing of bunnies and ferns observed in my backyard. The next year my five-year-old son entered the Children's Division, and I entered the professional Fine Arts division again. I didn't get even get exhibited, but his childish pastel of a pig won. Another winner in the family was a good thing.
I did not enter Fair competition again until 20 years later. I like the fact that I don't have to ribbon in local fairs to enter the State Fair. It's all as simple as deciding on my category, paying the entry fee, delivering the entry, and waiting for the judging. Not all Fine Arts entries get exhibited. Two weeks before opening day, artists from all over the state line up to submit their pieces (painting, drawings, sculpture, jewelry, china painting). Judges spend the next week selecting objects to be displayed. Once everything is in place judging begins again, and ribbons are affixed.
A reception to which artists are invited is held the night before the Fair opens. In bygone days, cake and pie entries were served as refreshments. While this treat went by the wayside, the thrill of seeing my work of art on display is still there. Each year I enter the gallery with anticipation and awe, eagerly looking for my work and stopping to admire other artists.
The State Fair has long been part of my life. It has taught me the satisfaction of accomplishment and striving to do my best. Even in the years when I fail to make the cut I am consoled by the reality that there will be another time, another year, another competition. Perhaps being part of the Fair as a competitor would interest you; if so go online next year (www.in.gov/statefair) and choose your category. It's a grand experience!



Brandt Carter, artist, herbalist, and naturalist, owns Backyard Birds at 2374 E. 54th Street. Visit her web site www.feedbackyardbirds.com. Email your bird questions to Brandt@BroadRippleGazette.com




brandt@broadripplegazette.com
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