Artist Initiative

1) After taking Sally Stands workshop, I learned new pastel techniques and practiced sharpening my analysis of value (darks and lights). Since the grant allowed me to not be concerned with selling, I had time to do immense research on older and current self-portraits by other artists. This helped my use of new color schemes in my work and generated new ideas. 2) Evaluation comes from my audience viewing my new work and then giving positive remarks about it. Some said they really enjoyed my vibrant colors and were moved by my emotional approach to some of the paintings. Many viewers also stated they enjoyed the realism one of my works, Always Reaching." This realism is created by my accuracy in observing and painting value (darks and lights). Sally Strand's class made this accuracy possible. 2: 1. By research I learned to write press releases and created a list of calendars, people, newsletters, newspapers, magazines, and television/radio where I could send the press release. 2. Now I have a permanent list of places and people to which I can send a press release. I had part of my press release published in many publications. My exhibit was spotlighted by Mary Abbe in Sunday's "Star Tribune," with a photo of one of my works and text. May's issue of "Women’s Press" also highlighted my exhibit with photo and text. Southwest Journal also announced my opening and exhibit with photo. Many people came to my exhibit due to this publicity by the press."