I feel very bad because I have had multiple blog assignments for my current Portfolio Exhibition class which I have not posted. I am going to try and get better, as this is a weekly assignment and I do not want to fail one of the last classes that I need to graduate.
But I digress- this week, we were to read a compilation of excerpts from the book Letters to a Young Artist, in which a number of contemporary artists answer a letter posed by The Young Artist, Elizabeth Murray, asking for advice about maintaining artistic integrity whilst attempting to establish one's self in the workplace. Murray makes a statement about showing art which I have found myself relating to, which is the fact the she does not wish to show how work until she feels that she has gained a true sense of herself and found her own identity within her work. Among many artists instructing Murray to “just keep working” , I enjoyed Lawrence Weiner’s observation about how art must always be questioned- not just by the viewer or the critic, but most importantly by the artist. As a student who is still struggling to decide what she wants to do and how she wants to communicate her ideas to the public, I felt that it was helpful to know that continually asking myself these questions is a good sign. I understand that it is important to just keep working through all of the blocks and obstacles that either I or others have put up, especially with two part-time jobs and an 18 credit hour school schedule. It was helpful to hear that others have been through similar struggles but found a way to make things work for them. I want to continue to make art- especially for an outlet for creative expression. I have ofter wondered how to balance making work for the public vs. making work for myself in a way that can ensure that I could make a living whilst still maintaining my own artistic integrity. I would like to find this balance, but I am aware that I will not be able to begin to officially establish myself as working artist at first and am currently looking to find jobs that I may be able to take in the meantime as a way of making ends meet. I am excited to see what’s in store, but I am also very nervous.
1 Comment
TT
2/3/2017 06:36:40 pm
Manda, I am sure that every artist 🎨 suffers the same thoughts, concerns, sleepless nights. Knowing you and your determination and talent, I have no doubts that you will figure it out. I think the trick is to go with your gut. Be patient. Listen to your heart and most of all, be grateful. All good things will come to you, Sweetie. XOXO 😘
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AuthorArt Student at Flagler College. I am frequently instructed to write blog entries about my artistic thoughts and process. Archives
April 2017
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