Twelve days. That’s all the time I have until I deliver my artwork to Arts Council of Moore County’s Campbell House Galleries for the exhibit “Cloth & Clay.” I’ve participated in a big exhibit like this about every two years since 2016. These exhibits are challenging to an artist.

In this one I’m exhibiting with 2 other textile artists and a potter. We have a huge gallery space to fill and the textile artists are each tasked with bringing about 20 pieces each.

With each exhibit I create new pieces. And, because not everything sells, I’m have leftovers to use in the next. It all has me reflecting on so many things. What’s working. What’s not working. And what a journey its been.

I’m stepping into the one next month with more confidence than I’ve ever had. I guess that’s the meaning behind the phrase “put in the work.” I’ve seen my art change, but it also will continue to change. Two years from now there will be another level of difference in what I do. I can’t predict what that will be. But, I do know that it will be accomplished through increased levels of reflection and commitment.

What I’ve learned is art is more than just your professional abilities. There are some crazy-talented people who never want to sell, exhibit, or perform their art. Art is passion. Ultimately, we do it for ourselves while some of us choose to make it public. Being an artist is not about how much you sell … but how much you enjoy the passion.

 

 

Cloth & Clay
June 4-25, 2021
Artist reception:
June 4th – 6-8pm
Campbell House Galleries, Southern Pines, NC
(click image below for larger view)