But here's the thing: journal art does not translate well to art shows. Yeah, I can make prints of pages, but it's not the same. You gotta have something to hang on the walls, plain and simple. Last week I was invited to participate in Claremont's First Friday Artwalk, to be the March artist. I am very excited and I am honored to have been asked by Cherie Savoie and Jenna Guzman of Hair Stream Claremont to be a part of the event. So I start looking around the studio, and guess what: I have very few new pieces that are hangable art. So lets get busy!!
I have been in this position before, with a show I did a couple years ago in Phoenix, and let me tell you what I remember most about that time: I remember the battle I had within myself. What I mean by that is this: do I make art that will show who I am and what I love, or will I make art that will be sure to conform and not offend? Now, I am not talking about something edgy or offensive, I am talking about the thoughts that run through my mind like "Ohh don't make that too religious, people won't buy it" or "do you really want to use that picture or that wording....it's pretty "Christian". And sometimes it comes at me with "do you really want to do that...you might have to explain yourself or actually take a stand for what you believe in."
So I stayed true and made art I was proud of, and it all worked out. But now, two years later, that same old voice is back in my head. But you know what? I'm not having it this time. I know who I am, I know who I am in Christ and a little something I learned last night: While you are pursuing your dreams.....don't forget to pursue the Dream Giver. HE has made this possible, and HE is who I will honor. Not the world, not art sales and not compromise.
So the show is titled "Caged". It will ask the question: Are we "caged" by the world, or "surrounded" by Him. You decide.
9 comments:
Yea yea....I am so proud of you for not listening to the enemy and allowing him to rob you of the joy that will come when you are true to yourself and to the Father......I know He will bless your faithfulness......
Big hugs
I love the blend of your art and spirituality. Refreshing and authentic. Hope you share some of your latest work soon!
Congratulations Carrie. You bring up great points; I too often find that I take the safe route. You are an inspiration.
Hi...I just found your blog. I just started my blog www.whereaflowergrows.com a few weeks ago. Thank you for the inspiration...love the spirituality & art!
~Monica~
Hooray! You have told your Inner Critic where to go, and have moved forward, sharing the gift God gave you! Your strength and spirituality shine through you work!
I just found your work in the current Art Journal magazine, and really loved it! will be a follower.
I relate to your post: make art for my own spiritual fulfillment or that which will be more publishable. I do both, and it works for me.
Irma,
http://irmaperedne.blogspot.com/
It was lovely to meet you at AAJ and share Jesse's awesome class. Loved your work!
BethXx
I just clicked the "next blog" button on top of my blog page, and i got to your blog. And i believe i was to read what you have written there that day. Thank you for sharing your struggle to be authentic. I have a similar experience. As an artist and at the same time the one marketing my work, i know i have to stay strong to remain true.
I love this, your message, your art… don't stop! I think the Audience of One is quite happy about this!
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