My blog has been quiet of late….life has been pretty hectic getting exhibition space prepped and ready to throw open the doors of college to the public. The exhibition space looked fantastic! I know I am biased (!) but I genuinely felt that we did a fantastic job of putting together a really interesting and diverse show.
We finally opened the doors for the private view yesterday- and what an experience it was!! We had a fantastic turnout and there was plenty of engaging conversation to be had. It was quite surreal to finally offer these works, that have been developing in the safe environment of the college studios, up to the eyes of the public. Though surreal- it was also refreshing. To really engage again with these ideas we’ve explored in conversation and to hear other perspectives.
I have to admit that for me, due to the nature of my work, I found this experience initially nerve-wracking. There is a strange sense of ‘coming out’. A declaration of my identity as an artist after three years of exploration. It was also incredibly liberating. I felt proud of my work, and the achievement of surviving my degree as a mother of four!!
To top it off I was thrilled to learn that I had not only been nominated by my tutors for student of the year and also commendation for critical writing, but that I had also won the Meadow Arts Prize. What a night?!
So, I look forward to the next week of stewarding at the summer show which ends on 20th June, (feel free to swing by and say hi if you happen to be in the area!) and using this opportunity to learn as much as I can through conversations with visitors. I will also use the quiet periods to take the time to let it all soak in and contemplate next steps. The plan of action…..where next?!
