Artist Initiative

This grant gave me time to devote to the exploration of new materials and techniques. This is a great gift to give to an artist because most creative breakthroughs occur through trial and error. When an artist does not have the time to risk failure, her work will eventually become habitual. My “learning opportunities” took place while I was alone in my studio without distraction. I evaluated my achievements based on what I was able to accomplish during the grant period. Because of the State Arts Board grant, I was able to experiment with and begin to develop three distinct bodies of work. In this way the State Arts Board grant not only allowed me to complete work for my proposed exhibition, it also laid the foundation for many future artworks. While the grant period lasted for only one year, the effects of my efforts during that period will inform my work for many years to come. 2: Every time I am given the opportunity to exhibit my work it brings me into contact with new organizations, curators and arts administrators. The exhibition that I had at the Bloomington Theater and Arts Center was no exception. This opportunity brought me into contact with new people and gave me insight into the workings of a public arts organization. Working with the Bloomington Theater and Arts Center informed the way I organize my work and the time devoted to making artwork. I was able to create a cohesive exhibition geared to a new audience without sacrificing the quality of the work. The feedback I received during the exhibition supported the choices that I had to make when choosing work for the show. A public arts organization is, out of necessity, run quite differently than a commercial gallery and this experience will help me in the future as I engage with other similar organizations. This opportunity also expanded my list of contacts among art world professionals and audience members with an interest in my work.