London Galleries: Establishing and Maintaining Relationships (A Talk by Jonathan Parsons)
Really wish I could blog more than I do at the moment. Though I’m hoping that the half term break will be provide wit a much needed creative springboard to write and work. Subsequently attending a talk by Jonathan Parsons last weekend seemed to rouse me from my lethargy (http://www.cornexchangenew.com/events/info/a-talk-by-jonathan-parsons).
Evidently it was interesting to see so many other regional artists based outside of London. Moreover the talk helped to dispel beliefs about my own practice that have been in some way limiting or self-defeating. Whilst it’s difficult to describe everything that was discussed here are some of the main points….
Being an artist is alright if that’s what drives you.
It’s ok to sell a work of art.
Being an artist can often be difficult as there is no distinct career path, business model or set way of doing things. With that in mind, establishing relationships is vital (everything starts with you). Some of the best opportunities may come out of conversations with other artists.
You give the work its initial value; you are the world’s expert on your own practice.
Whilst some of these statements may seem glaringly obvious to well-established artists they are nonetheless helpful to be reminded of. Particularly as being an artist doesn’t really allow for professional accreditation. In Making a Case for the Arts…., Joyce Mcmillam asserts that ‘ Artists are often, rightly, uncertain about what the are doing, questioning more than getting answers, and feeling that they are on a journey’ (2011). Subsequently McMillam’ talk is shown in it’s entirety below. Well worth a watch if you’re in need of encouragement.
References:
Creative Choices, (2011), Making the Case for the Arts, Available at: http://www.creative-choices.co.uk/industry-news-views/article/making-the-case-for-the-arts?utm_source=newsletter121&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Making%2Bthe%2Bcase%2Bfor%2Bthe%2BArts&utm_campaign=newsletter, (accessed: 25/01/13)
Making the Case for the Arts by Joyce McMillan
