Start with What Speaks to You
Starting an art collection can feel intimidating, especially if you're new to the art world. I totally understand being hesitant about visiting traditional art galleries! If that’s the case consider exploring alternative venues like art festivals, local art markets, or artist studios. These venues are often much more relaxed and feel like a more approachable environment to discover new art.
Take your time to explore different styles, mediums, and artists. Visit online art platforms and search Instagram using hashtags representing the work you are drawn to. For example; #landscape, #abstract or #watercolor. This is a great way to discover emerging artists and connect with their work. Don't be afraid to reach out to artists directly to ask questions – they will love telling you all about their work!
Above all, trust your gut and collect pieces that resonate with you personally. Building an art collection is a journey of self-discovery, so let your passion and curiosity guide you.
Look for Stories Behind the Art
One of the most rewarding aspects of collecting art is learning about the stories behind the pieces. Whether it's the inspiration behind the artwork, the artist's journey, or historical context, these stories add depth and meaning to your collection. Seek out artists who have a compelling narrative or whose work reflects themes that are important to you.
As an abstract artist, I make it a priority to share the story behind each piece with viewers. This photo is an example of the label I display next to my work at shows. Abstract art can often evoke strong reactions from viewers, yet many struggle to articulate why they are drawn to a particular piece - I know I totally do! By sharing my story, I aim to provide viewers with a framework that enhances their understanding and appreciation of the artwork. Even if the viewer's interpretation differs from my own, this narrative adds depth and context to the viewing experience.
Mix and Match Styles
A diverse art collection can be more visually stimulating and reflective of your evolving tastes. Mix and match different styles, from traditional to contemporary, to create a dynamic collection that tells a story about your interests and experiences. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore new genres or artists. For example, you could pair a bold, contemporary piece with a classic, traditional artwork to create a visually striking contrast. This juxtaposition not only adds visual interest but also invites viewers to see the artworks in a new light, sparking conversations and deeper contemplation.
Support Emerging Artists
This is not just a shameless plug…. Building a meaningful art collection is not just about acquiring established names; it's also about supporting emerging talent. Explore local art scenes, art schools, and online platforms to discover up-and-coming artists whose work speaks to you. Not only does this support the arts community, but it also allows you to acquire unique pieces that may increase in value over time.
Ok – this part is a shameless plug! There are two opportunities around the corner where you can view local emerging artists, both of which I am participating in. The Palette show is a Fall and Spring tradition for the Calgary Community Painters Society for over 30 years. I will be there along with over 60 other local emerging artists. It runs April 9th and 10, click here for details. The Calgary Artists Studio Tour is an amazing way for you to check out over 80 local emerging artists in their studios where they create! This event is in it’s third year and spans across & outside the city, including Airdrie, Okotoks and Cochrane! It will run May 3rd to 5th. Click here to learn more.
Originals Aren't Your Only Options
Not all of your art collection needs to consist of original pieces. Prints provide the chance to own a piece of art that resonates deeply with you, even if you can't afford an original. This is because prints are typically more affordable than original pieces. Additionally, prints allow you to enjoy the work of your favorite artist without the high price tag of an original.
Not all prints are the same though! Limited editions are signed and numbered prints, adding value and collectability. Open editions are less expensive, more accessible, and a great way to provide variety without the high cost of originals.
Live With & be Enriched by Your Collection
As your collection grows display it proudly in your home or office. Rotate pieces to keep your space fresh and engaging. The joy of collecting art comes from living with and experiencing the beauty of your collection firsthand. As outlined in "Your Brain on Art" by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross, "Living with art enriches our lives by stimulating our senses, sparking our imaginations, and fostering emotional connections. It adds beauty, depth, and meaning to our surroundings, enhancing our well-being and inspiring us daily."
My Collection
We also have my work and our daughters work displayed. Personally, I enjoy groupings of art that are eclectic, for example, in these photos from our house you can see there is a variety of prints and originals, as well as a variety of styles. Each piece holds a special meaning for us, and we love the eclectic mix they create together as a collection. (For links to these artists go to the bottom of this blog.)
Building a Collection That Reflects You!
Your art collection is a reflection of who you are, your passions, and your values. By collecting art that speaks to you personally, you create a collection that is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful. Embrace the journey of building your collection, and let it be a reflection of your unique story. Whether you're just starting or have been collecting for years, remember that the art you choose to surround yourself with should bring you joy and inspiration. Have fun with it – and don’t worry about matching your damn couch!
Thank you for dropping by my blog! To stay up to date, have first access to pre-orders/limited editions you can subscribe to receive emails at the very bottom of this page.
Gratefully yours,
Introspection - 30" x 48" - Mary-Jo Lough (for sale)
National Centre for Civil & Human Rights - matted mural print
Heather Kinahan - my very talented friend!
I didn't even get into the world of three-dimensional art, like sculptures, which I find incredibly intriguing. Sculptures add a tactile and dynamic element to a collection, creating a more immersive and interactive experience. However, diving into this topic would make this post way too long!
]]>Many experts emphasize the importance of developing a "style" in art, but this doesn't mean one has to restrict themselves to it narrowly. Art is not about rigidly adhering to a single style or theme, it's about exploration and pushing boundaries. For me, this means venturing into different subjects, and palettes. Hence my personally frightening, but very satisfying venture into figurative work last year with THE BODY PROJECT. I've mentioned this before, but one principle I strive to uphold is to not shy away from the things that scare me, or in other words, to embrace discomfort and pursue growth. While I don't always succeed, I make an effort to remind myself of this philosophy, especially when I am in my studio!
Recently, I've been captivated by landscapes, a complete departure from my usual non-representational abstract pieces. This exploration has been incredibly refreshing. Diving into landscapes has offered me a new perspective, forcing me to slow down and appreciate the details. It's also led me to experiment with new palettes, using colors I wouldn't typically choose (sometimes). This experimentation has been eye-opening, showing me how a simple shift in attention can my perspective and invigorate my creative process.
These two pieces are VERY different from one another. The first is titled: “Farmhouse Nostalgia” and it reflects upon my teen years in Southern Ontario, where I was surrounded by farmlands despite not living on a farm myself. The painting captures the essence of my nostalgia, particularly for the vibrant colors of fall in Ontario that I love and miss dearly. The second piece is titled: “Expanse”. I have always admired the expansive sky and how spacious it is here in Alberta, and of course the majestic mountains. "Expanse" captures that sense of vastness and grandeur, with the sky dominating the scene, stretching out endlessly. The mountains, though not the focal point, add a sense of solidity and permanence, grounding the viewer in the landscape. Alberta's beauty lies in its openness, where the sky meets the land in a way that feels boundless and free.
Embracing these changes and challenges is an integral, and necessary, part of the creative process for me. It's okay to feel bored or stuck; it's all part of the journey. The key is to see these moments as opportunities to try something new, to push yourself in ways you never thought possible. Who knows what amazing discoveries lie ahead?
Thank you for dropping by my blog! To stay up to date, have first access to pre-orders/limited editions you can subscribe to receive emails at the very bottom of this page.
Gratefully yours,
]]>Having primarily been an abstract artist my entire artistic career made taking on "The BODY PROJECT" both frightening and exhilarating. I am not a figure artist, and the models shared vulnerable moments with me through their modelling experience and their journaling, so I was worried I wouldn’t do them and this project justice. This collection, a fusion of abstraction and figures, was more than just an exhibition for me; it became a profound exploration of connection, body positivity and neutrality.
The process of creating this collection was a transformative journey, pushing me beyond the comfortable confines of my non-representational abstract repertoire. I began in January of 2023, filled with self-doubt and fear. I was thinking too much and staying in my “left brain” with the ideas of “what will people like” swimming around my mind. Therefore, I created inauthentic, mediocre work. I was saved by carpal tunnel surgery and had to set the project aside. When I came back to it in the summer, I was done with fear and worrying about what anyone else thought. I was ready to create a collection of work that I connected with deeply. Referencing the photos and becoming familiar with the journaling of each model, I found aspects within their experiences that I personally identified with. The shared perspective I found with each model coupled with remaining open and connected with my intuition allowed me to create a collection that I am very proud of.
However, the main lessons found within this project lie in the intimate narratives shared by the volunteer models who served as the inspiration. The layers of paper, pattern, journaling, and paint on canvas echoed the layers of their personal stories, creating a tapestry of diverse experiences and perspectives for myself and the viewer. Reminding all of us that we are more than our bodies, and more importantly, that there is a common thread of the raw human experience that runs through all of us – we are all connected even though we can often feel alone and isolated.
This collection became a celebration of body positivity and neutrality, not only for the models but also for me. Through this transformative journey, each brushstroke became an opportunity for self-discovery, unveiling layers of emotions and perceptions about my own body. As I connected to each model through their personally written narratives, I found myself challenging societal norms and embracing a newfound sense of liberation. The canvas became a mirror, reflecting not only the unique beauty of each subject but also the evolving narrative of my own body positivity and acceptance.
As I look back on "THE BODY PROJECT," I am reminded that success in the realm of art is not solely defined by sales figures. It is found in the transformative power of creation and connection, in the ability of art to transcend its physical form and resonate on a deeply personal level. Witnessing the vulnerability and strength of these individuals, I was honored to be part of portraying their bodies and their stories. On a deep level I internalized that we are all connected, and this has led to feeling more openness and understanding to others. I am grateful to have been reminded that fear and doubt have no place in the creation of authentic work. "THE BODY PROJECT" has left an indelible mark on my artistic journey, proving that the most significant triumphs are often the ones that cannot be measured in monetary terms.
Click here to see the entire collection!
Thank you for dropping by my blog! To stay up to date, have first access to pre-orders/limited editions you can subscribe to receive emails at the very bottom of this page.
Let me know what lessons 2023 provided for you by leaving a comment below!
Gratefully yours,
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The heartbeat of body neutrality and positivity lies in the celebration of diversity and the journey toward self-acceptance. I've intimately felt the impact of the body positivity movement, arising in response to the unattainable standards of beauty perpetuated by societal norms and media. This movement encourages us to embrace our bodies in all their forms, irrespective of societal constructs. As I translate this sentiment into my abstract figurative pieces, I’m utilizing vibrant bold layers of colors to mirror the vivacity and complexity found within all of us. Each layer captures the essence of unique body shapes, shouting a resounding affirmation of self-love. The canvas has become a space where my and the models struggles find a voice, and the beauty of every form is celebrated in its raw authenticity.
There is a distinct difference between body positivity and neutrality. Body neutrality is a concept that focuses on shifting one's perspective from an obsessive or overly critical viewpoint toward their physical appearance to a more balanced and compassionate approach. It encourages individuals to detach their self-worth and overall value from their external appearance. In essence, body neutrality suggests that the worth of a person extends beyond their looks, allowing them to redirect their energy and attention toward the more meaningful aspects of their life, such as personal growth, accomplishments, passions, and relationships. Unlike body positivity, which emphasizes actively loving and celebrating one's body, body neutrality encourages a more neutral, non-judgmental stance, aiming to reduce the pressure and anxiety associated with constant body scrutiny.
The concept of body neutrality is a narrative that speaks to my personal journey. It's a path that I have attempted to walk, detaching my self-worth from the external and embracing a sense of freedom. This has led to temporary realizations that our worth transcends the confines of appearances, gently guiding me towards a space where self-love blossoms without the constraints of societal standards, but this sentiment is difficult to grasp and remains to be fleeting for me. From within my brushstrokes, I've found a way to express the tranquility that does come with releasing the weight of societal expectations. The gentle curves, texture, gradients and layers are reminiscent of the journey toward neutrality—a journey of self-discovery and a conscious shift towards nurturing the soul rather than fixating on the physical.
In a world that seems to be embracing individuality and diversity, the concepts of body positivity and body neutrality have never been more relevant. As viewers immerse themselves into this collection, they're invited into a dialogue—an intimate conversation with the artworks that mirrors the conversations I've had with myself. It's a dialogue of self-love, growth, and rediscovering the beauty that resides within. Vulnerability, strength, and appreciation is woven into THE BODY PROJECT. Each piece contains imprints of my, and the models’ personal journey, providing a roadmap for the viewer to connect with and reflect upon their own narratives, struggles, and triumphs.
]]>I spent the summer of 2019 in Ontario with my mother after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In my free time, I painted and drew to bring some calm into my life. As an artist, I have always been drawn to the beauty of nature. My mother loved her gardens and our house was surrounded by beautiful blooms. During this difficult period, I wanted to create something full of life and I was drawn to the flowers.
One of the pieces I created shortly before she passed away featured a butterfly landing on a flower. The butterfly is a symbol of transformation and rebirth, often associated with the idea of the soul transcending the physical world. It represents the metamorphosis that occurs when we let go of the past and embrace the future. And so, my painting of the butterfly was not just a tribute to my mother but a tribute to the power of hope and renewal.
After she passed, something extraordinary started happening. Everywhere I went, butterflies seemed to follow me. They would flutter around me and even land on my shoulder to accompany me during long walks. I took it as a sign of comfort and reassurance, a reminder that my mother was still with me in spirit.
Recently, at a market, I told someone the story behind my butterfly piece, “Take Flight”. She explained that her friend had been seeing butterflies everywhere since her mother's passing and she felt a deep connection to them. I have learned that it’s not uncommon for people to have spiritual experiences or see signs and symbols after the passing of a loved one. With her friend’s birthday quickly approaching she purchased the print as a gift for her. I was elated and humbled to know that she was moved to tears when she received it.
The fact that my work resonated with someone who had experienced the same phenomenon was incredibly touching and validating. For her, my painting is a tangible representation of her connection with her mother, and a reminder that even in the darkest of moments, there is always the possibility for renewal and optimism. This experience has reminded me that art has the power to challenge our assumptions and beliefs, broaden our perspectives, and inspire us to think and feel differently. It is a means of self-expression, allowing us to communicate our innermost thoughts and feelings to others. Whether we create or appreciate art, it has the capacity to move us, connect us, and enrich our lives in ways that are profound and meaningful.
]]>At the beginning of 2022, I joined an artist mentoring group with Lauren Mantecon. Lauren and I are very different people and it’s one of the reasons I have learned so much from her mentorship. Although my ADHD mind can be all over the place and I find unpredictable connections, I am also drawn to a linear logical list-making type of existence. I prefer having concrete answers that include visible evidence (which logically, I know isn’t always possible). Lauren is open to, sees, and experiences so much outside of this type of existence. She asks questions I don’t know how to answer but understand that I need to examine them further. She is spiritual, deeply grounded, and knowledgeable. This wasn’t an art technique group; it was a space where we could experiment and dive deeper into answering the questions of why we make art, where it comes from within us, and what it means to us personally.
I attended an in-person workshop in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with Lauren and our group of artists. I knew heading in that I might feel vulnerable and outside my comfort zone, and boy was I right! I am one of those people who does not feel comfortable being vulnerable with others. Give me anger or frustration any day, but raw vulnerability, uh thanks, but no….. However, I did recognize that this experience would push me to answer difficult questions and learn more about myself and my art.
The piece I created during the workshop was a blend of an older style used in the CATHARSIS collection (pictured to the left) and how I currently work. I entered the workshop with the intention of being open and receptive. It was a moving and powerful experience to paint in one large room with a group and to stay open to the energy. I am happy with the end result (pictured below), in regard to both the work I created and what I learned about myself and my art. The piece I made is currently unnamed, but it’s hung in my home, and I intend to spend time with it and continue examining and writing about the experience and what I learned from it.
I know this sounds very “woo woo”, and I agree. I have always shied away from the “New Age thing”, however, I am realizing that by doing that I have shut myself off from potentially very profound experiences. I have denied myself participating in true connection with others, and to an extent, with myself. With that being said, I am going to continue to undertake more “woo woo” things and attempt to remain open to what surfaces from them.
Thank you for being here! As always I encourage and love comments & questions. Feel free to reach out to me via email (mary-jo@mjlfineart.com) or through any social media channel.
Gratefully yours,Number one: Self-Expression
Your art collection is a means of self-expression and a way to showcase your unique personality. Whether you connect to the subject matter or are captivated by the colours & mood, the feelings sparked by purchasing an artwork are intensely personal. One of the best things about original art is that it allows you to express yourself in a way that no other home décor can. A unique piece of art personalizes your space. How often have you seen your friends' living rooms decorated with the same Ikea art? The artwork's originality puts a spotlight on your personality in your space.
Number Two: Supporting Emerging Artists
Supporting Emerging Artists When you purchase art from emerging artists, you acquire it at a reasonable price while directly supporting their career and development. Building a relationship early on with an artist is wonderful and enriching. You are buying an artist’s personal expression directly from them, often interacting with them in a vulnerable and personal way. You can grow with the artist and help advance their business. You never know, maybe your collection will include the next Jackson Pollock!
Number Three: It’s Good For you!
There have been many studies conducted that outline the benefits of viewing and living with art. Researchers have found that visual art promotes health, and wellness by lowering stress levels. Viewing visual art has also been found to be an effective tool for mindfulness. Engaging with visual art has been found to activate different parts of the brain other than those taxed by logical and linear thinking. Additionally, there is evidence that art taps into our emotions and aids in healthy mental shifting which results in us feeling good!
Number Four: Supporting Local
A big part of being a responsible, mindful consumer is supporting the local economy. When you buy original art, you’re supporting the artist who created it and all of the people who helped make that piece possible. Additionally, buying original art can be a great way to connect with your local community. Purchasing directly from an artist, or a shop/market/gallery infuses money into the community you love.
How many products do you buy that will last your lifetime? The art you acquire will enrich your life and help express your individuality. Have fun with it and don’t let it stress you out.
I am really excited to be in the Art Market & Craft Sale again this year. I have a big corner booth with new walls and I am working furiously to be fully prepared!
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]]>I have worked with Lauren through Mastrius before the Dive Deep program, and I adore her, but she and I are VERY different people. It’s one of the reasons I have learned more from her mentorship than any other. Although my thoughts go all over the place and make unpredictable connections, at the same time I am drawn to a linear logical list-making type of existence. I prefer having concrete answers that include visible evidence for everything (which logically, I know isn’t possible). Lauren sees so much outside of this type of existence and asks questions I don’t know how to answer but I understand I need to examine. She is spiritual, deeply grounded, and knowledgeable. This wasn’t an art technique workshop; it was a space and experience where we could all experiment and dive deeper into why we make art and what it means to us personally.
Continual professional and personal development are so important, and that’s how I looked at participating in this group. One of our smaller activities was creating a soul collage and then a circle discussion about what we produced and what they revealed about ourselves. They were made utilizing magazines and building a collage with the images you are drawn to at that moment. (Mine is pictured here – titled, “Listen up Bit%&!”). My description is not doing it justice, but you get the gist. I will not get into the nitty-gritty of the discussion, however, during my turn, Lauren made a comment that hit me like a lightning bolt. She said, “your art acts as an escape valve for you.” O. M. G. YES! I have never been able to put my finger on it but that is exactly what it is! With this eureka moment I spent many of my mornings in Santa Fe writing about this idea and subsequently have rewritten my artist statement. (You can click here to go read it)
The piece I created during the workshop was quite interesting to me as it ended up being a blend of the style I used when creating the Catharsis collection and the pattern and detail I utilize now. I think it partly came from being “in my feels” that weekend. I entered the workshop with the intention of being open and receptive. I am happy with the end result, regarding both the art and what I learned about myself. This piece is currently unnamed, but I intend to hang it in my home, spend some time with it, and continue examining and writing about the experience.
Santa Fe is a stunning and beautiful place to visit. I honestly think they have more art galleries per capita than anywhere else. Between the galleries, Aspen Vista, Meow Wolf, the Georgia O’Keffee museum, my workshop, and writing, I had an amazing trip and would suggest a visit to Santa Fe for any art lover.
On a totally different topic – I am part of a Studio Tour this upcoming weekend and if you are in Calgary I would love for you to attend! Because I am moving studios soon, I am hosting mine at A Collaborative Design Group – a stunning interior design firm.
When – Saturday, October 22nd & Sunday, October 23rd, from 11 am to 4pm
Where – 4521 Manhattan Rd SE (A Collaborative Design Group)
Click here to learn about the other artists involved and to see the google map of all of the stops!
Thank you for dropping in on my blog! If you enjoyed it please share it with your friends and on social media using the icons below or copying the URL at the top of the page and pasting it into your feed. I love when people comment, so please ask me questions or leave me your thoughts.
]]>MJL Fine Art (that's me!) had some firsts this summer. I had my first experience with an online show in the Abstract Square Foot Show. It wrapped up last weekend and I would categorize it as a big success. I met a number of amazing artists and art enthusiasts and also sold 4 out of the 5 pieces I had submitted.
In less than a week the second online show I in opens! The Mastrius - 100 Days of Summer show is also online and features 100 artists all submitting 10" x 10" pieces with theme of summer. This show opens August 26th at 12pm MT and closes August 31st at 11pm MT. The pieces I created for the show are inspired by Alice in Wonderland and fantastical worlds, these landscapes are bright, bold, and unconventional. The patterns inserted in the initial layers create depth in these small but mighty pieces. Typical of my style, contrast plays a big role! The variation in hues and values is pushed to the max! Fun, whimsical, and lighthearted - exactly the summer scene we need after the last few years! You can check them out here!
The collection is called FANTASTICAL and the work depicts offbeat & fanciful urban environments. I usually stick to non-representational abstract art, however, I often receive feedback that my pieces are reminiscent of cities, skylines or architecture, so I thought, why not embrace it!
Personally I can lose time imagining what life would be like if I had been born somewhere else, in a different time or under different circumstances. Not because I wish my life were different, I just love stretching my imagination, creating new worlds, and spinning out all of the different possibilities. I think it's fascinating to put myself into someone else's shoes and imagine their view of life, what their aspirations are and how their experiences have shaped them. The reason I bring this up is that I want the viewer to emerge themselves within each piece in this collection and envision what this new world would feel like. Take some time and ask, who would I be in this world?
I thought I would share some process photos with you as I find the iterative process that most work goes through very interesting. Some pieces are more of a struggle than others. Oddly enough I have realized, that for me, the first piece I start within a collection is usually the "struggle piece" and often finished last. Soaring Into the Urban Rainbow (pictured here), was the first piece I started and the last one I finished. It was and by far the most difficult for me. I've only included 3 photos here, but this piece had many ugly stages, lots of revision, and many times I considered just abandoning it. Now I think it might be one of my favorites! Let me know what you think in the comment section.
The Square Foot Show began as a small, annual art party at Julia Veenstra’s studio in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Each piece just 12' ×12' and all at a single price. Since 2020 it has exploded into an online “black Friday of art”, with collectors and artists spanning the globe and many artists selling out in just minutes.
Abstract², is featuring Kate Taylor & friends. Kate Taylor is an abstract artist born in Cambridge, England, and now works out of her studio in Toronto, Ontario. The square foot show features original one-of-a-kind 12" x 12" abstract pieces from Kate Taylor & 78 other emerging and established artists all at the same price of $300 CAD.
The show goes live at exactly 8 pm EST August 11th, and it is often true that many artists will sell out within the first few minutes of opening. But, don’t let that discourage you because we also provide email list subscribers with a preview of the pieces 48 hours prior to showtime. To subscribe click here!
The sale lasts until 8 pm on the third day (August 13th) and there are always plenty of original pieces to choose from.
IMPORTANT:
The sale goes live on a different site than the regular Square Foot Show website. You will be sent this link if you signup for their mailing list - OR - you can click below. It will not be active until the show launches at 8pm EST August 11th.
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As a young teen the freedom that abstract art offered was magnetic. Both creating and viewing abstract art offers a world of expanse that, for me, just doesn’t exist in representative art. The fact that each person can interpret the same piece in a totally different way is intriguing. The viewer is not given or directly told the subject matter, ie; here is a mountain, here is a person's face. The viewer's interpretation is unrestrained by traditional form and entirely their own.
This leads me directly to the main reason why I have always loved working within abstract art. There is no box I had to stay inside of, it felt as though there was an absence of failure, I could colour outside the lines, so to speak, and that was even encouraged. Working within non-representational abstract art gave me the feeling of being unrestricted, which was a breath of fresh air for me. Being a very hyper ADHD child, I felt a constant obligation to control, subdue and bridle my energy and my true self. I did this to conform to the expectations of others and avoid annoying or upsetting those around me. However, within abstract art I could completely express myself, my full energy, and my unique ideas. Within the environment of abstract art my divergent thinking and energy led to success rather than disappointment from others. It was exceptionally affirming to have a true part of me accepted and praised by people I respected and wanted to connect with.
This may not be specific to abstract art, and I am absolutely certain it is not specific to me, but when I am being creative my mind empties and I can be 100% present. It's the only time my busy overactive and overstimulated brain has silence and peace. I feel the most grounded, sure of who I am and what my purpose is when I am in my studio creating.
I believe that if I had to define why I love abstract art in a single word, it would be liberation. Abstract art affords me the freedom to unmask and step outside of societal imposed boundaries and fully express myself through my creativity. The freedom abstract art grants me fills my soul, grounds me, and allows me to communicate authentically with the world, how could I not be drawn to it over and over again!
]]>The evolution of a collection is intriguing to contemplate. (See below for a list of what order the pieces were started in.) Within the ATYPICAL collection I saw myself move from pieces with vivid chaotic backgrounds layered with tight patterns, to a less colourful pallet but a focus on meticulously detailed patterns of the same hue, to the last three pieces that opened up, were more playful and offered more “room” to discover. The component that seemed unlike past experiences for me were the 2 pieces three quarters of the way through that were quite different from the rest – I Threw Every Ball I Own in the Air and Hyperfocus.
At this point in the collection, I was feeling a lot of pressure and was worried I wouldn’t be able to finish enough work to have a full collection. I was working many hours and at times not taking good care of myself in order to finish the work. If you have read the description for “Every Ball” it is ironic that these pieces were born out of a time when I implemented a self-induced pressure to produce a certain number of pieces as I had created the exact environment described in “Every Ball”. I was pushing myself so hard and overextending to make sure I didn’t fail or come across as a failure, which in retrospect is comical. I highly doubt that anyone who came to view this collection would have said to me, “you only have x number of pieces, you really are a useless artist with no talent….”
The order the pieces were started:
Once I completed Hyperfocus I realized at the bare minimum I only needed one more piece to have at least 10 pieces for this collection, so I relaxed quite a bit. I shook my head and remembered that creating art is as much for me, if not more, as it is for others, so I loosened up. Out of this new relaxed period I created the last 3 pieces of the collection, When the Dopamine Hits, Daydreaming and Perpetually Percolating. These last three pieces felt effortless, but that certainly doesn’t mean that the same amount of effort and time didn’t go into them. I wasn’t fighting myself, there was less internal struggle and I had let go of fear and anxiety. At the risk of sounding too “woo hoo” the energy for these pieces were released by this transition and I was able to tap into it. I really don’t know how else to explain it. It was during this time that I also finally properly finished Firing On All Cylinders. I had started this piece near the beginning but could never get it to where I wanted it. It had a feeling of unnatural constraint and left me with the impression that it was forced. It honestly almost ended up in the garbage a few times. This piece was literally fully finished and varnished the morning of the day I had to hang the show! I had made a few changes to it the day before the show went up and tried to convince myself it was done, but when I went to bed, I knew it wasn’t ready. While trying to fall asleep I promised myself that I would have the answer when I woke up, and if I didn’t it just wouldn’t be part of the show – oh well, I’d have 11 pieces. I woke up and knew exactly what had to be changed. I had let myself off the hook and trusted myself and I was able to connect the dots and finish the piece.
I’m not sure why I keep forgetting the lesson of self-trust, but when I do come back to it, I feel grounded. Additionally, I believe that each time I relearn this lesson I strengthen different skills, which is a gift I’ll gladly receive repeatedly. So, here’s to the next time!
The opening of the ATYPICAL exhibit was exciting and well received. I thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with friends and collectors. At this point 5 pieces of the 12 have sold! The exhibit is up until May 28th at LOFT112 in Calgary. I am hosting an open house this Saturday from 2pm to 5pm if you would like to come take a look and have a chat!
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In 2021 my solo show at LOFT112 was cancelled twice (thankfully in retrospect) before it finally went ahead in October. I say thankfully because initially I was creating work with a focus on what I thought people would like, with what I thought would sell. A few things happened. Firstly, I created uninspired work that bored me to death while creating it. Secondly, working this way established a deep-seated period of imposter syndrome for me. Truthfully, I kind of was an imposter, because I was creating art that was not connected to me at all. Through practicing this way, my fear of not being enough, and not being considered a “real artist” was fortified. The fear and confusion were extremely frustrating and artistically debilitating. By the time I was given the 3rd date for my show in 2021 I was at the point where I said “screw this” I’m going to create a collection of work that I love! I am going to make this for me, I am going to throw myself into the process and be 100% engaged, and if I don’t sell one piece, I will hang it in my house proudly. This was the birth of my DIVERGENT collection – a collection of work that visually represents how I navigate the world as a person with ADHD.
When that show opened, I was very nervous. Although I had a lowkey confidence in the collection, it was ALL ME. If it only received polite nods and “oh, nice” then my fears would be justified. However, to date this collection has been my most popular by far. There are only a few pieces left. In fact one piece, "Directionally Challenged", was so popular that a gentleman offered me double for it after it sold! Of course, I refused, but that incident and how people were drawn into this collection and connected with it solidified the fact that fear has no place in art making. (pictured here: Directionally Challenged, 24" x 48")
I have reflected quite a bit about the DIVERGENT collection and how it came together. The lowkey confidence I referenced above existed because I was in “the zone” while creating each piece. I now know that the only way I attain that type of harmony during my process is from getting out of my own way, relying on the methods I have always gravitated toward (aka trusting my intuition), and providing myself with absolute trust. Additionally, I was one hundred percent ok with failing, which I think is the magical and elusive key to “getting in the zone”. In my opinion a lack of fear or the ability to get in the zone is not about confidence or believing you will succeed; it’s found in the acceptance that failure is a distinct possibility, understanding you will survive failure if it happens and moving forward anyway.
I will stop my pontificating here! I plan to post twice a month and send an email reminder out with each post. If you aren’t already on my email list and would like to be please click here. I look forward to interacting with you as you follow along my artistic journey. I invite you to comment or to leave me questions about my process or work.
One more announcement.....
My next post will be discussing this in much more detail, however, my newest collection will be exhibiting in May at LOFT112 in Calgary.
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