The process of applying to The Chair ran smoothly and once I'd been accepted the logistics of setting up the show was assisted enormously by the helpful and welcoming reception I received from Val and Jess. They were flexible and totally willing to make last minute alterations in response to changing circumstances. I was nervous about hanging the show, but it is such an amazing space that my first curatorial foray was a success. In the space the work almost told me where it belonged in a matter of a few hours and the team were on hand for any reassurance regarding the practicalities of hanging. The local DIY store was also of value here as was the warm community village feel of Hay where people support one another with their endeavours. A minor blip on the signage was resolved rapidly. Val was keen to promote the show to her guest list through email and social media channels which meant that many of the visitors seemed to arrive knowing in advance what they were coming to view, which was wonderful and led to some thought provoking discussions. Collaborating on instagram posts was new to me but this worked very well, and I was relieved that the opening was well attended and I made enough sales to end the adventure with a small profit while retaining most of the work having gained considerable visibility in the Welsh Borders art community. I felt free to set my own opening hours and pivot rapidly if they needed to be altered at the last minute. I loved that in Hay it's fine to leave a sign on the door saying 'out to lunch' with a number as though it were somehow France. The show seemed to draw a diverse audience across all demographics and the facilities meant that I could always welcome those who'd travelled to see my work with a good cup of coffee. There was also everything one needed there for install and take down. After removing the work from the show Val made a point of coming to say goodbye and wish us all well which was really kind and we parted on a positive note. A brilliant experience meant that I'd definitely consider putting on another show at the Chair.