Having entered a few open art competitions last year, with a few successes and a few not so successful, I decided to give one or two of the not so successful ones another go this year. The RA was one, so I've taken along this year's offering and have forgotten about it, at least until the days before the results are posted in late May when no doubt the butterflies in my stomach will make an unwelcome reappearance. Last year I was sent packing with my tail between my legs, but as a glass half full person, I rushed along to the Not the Royal Academy at the Llewellyn Alexander Gallery in Waterloo, who select their exhibits from the year's unsuccessful work from the RA. They took my painting and sold it, and have asked for more this year! If you don't mind standing in front of an immediate selection panel, which is slightly unnerving, with a potential audience in the queue behind you, then pay them a visit if you've been unselected for the Summer Exhibition! (BTW you're in good company if you're not successful at the RA, many impressive names have been rejected-Manet, Whistler, Cezanne, Pissarro). Another second attempt was for Patchings..... After my unsuccessful first attempt last year I had another go this year and.... am thrilled to say that my 2 offerings have been more successful. One has been highly commended and one has been requested for exhibit, so I hope to meet some fellow POL members at the exhibition! I'm absolutely delighted, it was well worth another go. Hope to see you soon!