A Visual Journal / Dia:Beacon
As I spend some time back home for the holiday season, I look forward to pulling inspiration & rejuvenation from some of my favorite New York spaces. Dia:Beacon is definitely one of them. Opening its doors in 2003, Dia features incredible, site-specific installations from a variety of contemporary artists. Whether you’re a New York local or just passing through, visiting Dia:Beacon should be on your list. The space alone is inspiring, not to mention the ability to interact and view works from Dan Flavin, Gerhard Richter, Louise Bourgeois, Anne Truitt, and Robert Smithson. Continue scrolling to see some of my favorite experiences x
To learn more about Dia:Beacon & their artist collection, click here!
Journal Entry / Inspiration + New Collection
Thoughts + Inspirations behind my latest works
things truly do have the potential to come full circle. after working for several weeks on large figurative pieces for a show; inspiration came to me, out of what seemed like, "nowhere." I was getting out of the shower + drying my hair with the towel and pondered the thought of capturing an intimate moment such as this one. can I take this space and convert it to something on canvas? obviously knowing this was something already done, and done well-- I began fumbling through my favorite giant texts of impressionistic and renaissance painters.
i've mentioned many times before that I found my love for representing the figure while studying in college. more specifically, my interest developed by viewing so many variations of "Bathers" through out art history; all while abroad in my artist residency. It became the subject of focus for my credit, way back in 2011.
when learning art history; starting with early Titian to Cezanne, the obsession and depiction of nude bathers can be seen through the centuries. I think what interested me most was the many meanings of each painting--- yes, some signifying cleanliness-- but others also represent fertility, death, healing or even birth. In certain timeframes, it was the newest way to showcase the natural beauty of the female form. Others even sexualized the scenes. By the early 1900's, the bather became yet again one of the most common motifs in modern contemporary art. (i'll stop rambling here because i'm a serious art history nerd-but look some up!)
And just below, are some current sketches completed for new projects. taking what i've seen and learned through the years-- adding my own voice. I love the thought of manipulating something classical and traditional; formulating my own representation. I've also included some sketches from my residency years ago; because I think it's interesting to be able to visualize growth/change in one's vision.
i'm currently working on a large Bathers Collection, taking my time and enjoying the process. I'll be sharing more updates here, on my social media, and through my newsletter. So make sure you're signed up there! :]
Art Installation / Things They Carry
"Things They Carry"
a live performance + artist collaboration
What a wonderful experience! This day was filled with incredible energy and love. Thank you to each and every viewer who came to experience this installation with Bri and I. (To read more about the event and our statement, please click here)
The Process
Working together on such a large project was eye-opening and challenging. Though Bri and I both focus on the human form in our work; our techniques, color palettes and styles are completely different. We were able to communicate and hash out ideas in order to narrow our thoughts into one plan and statement. To me, there's such victory in that. Being able to work through the creative process with another is truly special and I'm grateful to have had this experience with such a talented friend. To start, we knew we wanted to create large pieces on canvas as a backdrop, where we would be painting the models 'into' the composition. This was the most challenging part of the entire project-- given our opposite styles. We each started on one canvas and began switching back and forth with our techniques, agreeing on a color palette to remain consistent. I would walk to "Bri's" canvas and drag + scrape my squeegee through the paint, and she would stroll to "mine" with her palette knives and create a beautiful textured form. It was a give and take. Learning where to stop and start; where we each felt just enough discomfort in the others' realm.
Both of these canvases were built and stretched by us as well. There's always something to be said for creating the canvas with your own hands. It makes you feel very grounded and in tune with the project.
see more of our teamwork in the video below
For the event itself, we held online castings for 'models' (meaning any and all who would be willing) on numerous online platforms. We were very fortunate to have five incredibly powerful + body positive individuals who were willing to stand nude in the public of downtown Charleston. As we came to know each of them, it was really beautiful to hear their own unique reasonings for participating in the event. It solidified our statement; that no matter who we are-- we all have stories. Thank you to Ryan, Alex, Morgan, Ashley and Jessi.
None of this would have been possible without the incredibly generous talents from:
Mary Beth Thomas- Photography
Petaloso- Floral Arrangements + Accessories
Artist & Craftsman- Canvas + Stretcher Bars
and The Grand Bohemian Gallery for hosting us
(keep scrolling for photos of the event as well as continued thoughts)
If you've been following our process/have read our statement-- you know we chose to focus on the basics of the human condition. The idea that we all have experiences, layers- that formulate who we are.
How can we use this basic understanding to be more patient, more caring, more genuine with one another? Less judgment, less bitterness. More healing.
Journal Entry / Translating From Life
Even as a little girl, I was always obsessed with documenting life through a camera. It always fascinated me that I could capture a piece of time-cherish it's little details as it was in that exact moment. Memories that often blur can be replicated into a visual and aid in the emotions, thoughts and feelings of that exact place. I've carried this little habit of mine throughout my life, and it's become one of the most vital parts of my creative practice.
In terms of my work, color and texture are often reciprocated from life. If I'm not willing to soak in new environments and take notice to their little details-- my inspiration is often lacking. I have nowhere to pull from. The urge to document usually happens for a reason, and later on when I'm in need of a source, I flip through thousands of photographs-- some more abstract than others-- and find whatever it is I'm looking for.
The first time I started my mood board for this collection, I found myself saving photos with bright magentas, yellows, purples, greens and reds. Heavily saturated colors clashing yet working as one.
After completing the first few pieces, I found the urge to paint in my usual blue palette. I wanted to push myself, so I started paying more attention to palettes containing blue, but not all about blue.
How to Style Art in your Home ft. Celadon
At times, it can be difficult for collectors to picture where a new piece of art may be properly incorporated into their home. Without the help of designers and look books, envisioning artwork on display in your own intimate space can be intimidating. That's why I was so excited to share this little shoot with Celadon Home, where my work is styled alongside these beautiful pieces.
Wandering through their warehouse, it was difficult to choose just what pieces to use-- it's filled with so many incredible and intricate benches, dressers, stools, baskets, chairs and more. To fit my contemporary style, this dresser topped with a sleek, round mirror plays off of the gold used in my paintings, alongside this beautiful metal chair. (that is also surprisingly very comfortable!)
Though my work does often fit a very modern, minimal chic interior, I also hoped to demonstrate the possibility of a more bohemian styled-look. This beautifully patterned bench is accompanied by a geometric pattern of white and blue, following its white wooden trim. The large accent painting matched with this couch has underlying tones of white, tan, peach, grey and blue, and works nicely with the texture of this piece as well. Proof that you don't have to pair black and white paintings with only clean, modern lines!
All of these furniture pieces are currently available at Celadon's Warehouse, and will be discounted further on sale THIS SUNDAY, December 17th, during their Celadon Flea + Farmer's Market! With over 60+ local artisans and makers, this event should not be missed.
Sunday December 17th, 10am-2pm
Celadon's Warehouse 2221 Noisette Blvd
See you there! xx
Interested in these original pieces of art?! Come see me on Sunday at Celadon Flea to see details in person + purchase one for your own home. Unable to make it on Sunday? Click the contact button below for inquires
A Visual Journal, Traveling to London
I've been less with words and more with visuals lately. Here's me, attempting to share a little of the backstory:
This unexpected trip back to London came at an interesting time, one where I question if things really do come full circle. In 2011, I headed off to London with a small group from my college to complete an independent study abroad. We were to all choose a topic to focus our study; between museums, research, sketching, and the final creation with a gallery viewing. The figure became my topic of choice.
We spent each day in a different museum, researching artists, topics, recreating sketches, learning new mediums. Some days, you wouldn't get through more than two rooms. We were to walk everywhere, some days 30+ miles, and it was spring. The rain came down heavy, and we were always exhausted. Certain days became mentally draining, where you couldn't stand to even be near another piece of art. Others were rejuvenating, seeing work that spoke to the inner most parts of your creative soul. This was the first trip, honestly the first feeling in general; where I had ever felt homesick. Just before this study, I had undergone an intense surgery and was still recuperating. I had been diagnosed with celiacs and hypothyroidism and was still struggling with the reality of it. My body had turned against me. Personal relationships started to fall apart back home. For the first time in my life, I felt like I had lost control. My world was unraveling around me and there was no way of stopping it. This trip was the first time I ever remember experiencing any sort of real anxiety. The start of it all. And here I was, stranded in London. Why was I even here to begin with?
I wasn't sure where I wanted to be, but I was almost certain that it wasn't in London. With all the experience and knowledge I had gained from being there, the strong sense of discouragement I felt as a young creative seemed to outweigh it all. I had never traveled anywhere before this that left me with such a bitter taste.
After agreeing to be part of a photo project based in the UK, (I'll share more on this topic soon) part of me dreaded the thought of going back to a place I had, for so long, resented. But there was a greater part of me that wanted rewrite the story. Prove there could be a positive outcome. One that could overcome anxiety, embrace the present, and be grateful for the experiences I had been given at such a young age. I had wanted to do something purely for myself.
So I went.
The latest trip back was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. In my 26 years, most of my decisions have always been weighed at the cost of someone else. I've said no to experiences to avoid others missing out. Guilt usually fuels my decision making process. I've talked myself out of more situations simply because I believed I wasn't capable. That I wasn't deserving of them.
This experience was for me and me alone. To say that it was freeing, the words just will never do it justice. Standing there, in these same places, six years later, was more emotional that I expected. I had overcome so much to be back this exact point. A place where I never thought I would be. Something had shifted. There was a moment standing in the middle of a street I don't know the name of, waiting to cross; where I had actually started to feel something again.
How many times in our lives to do we actually feel a pull from the universe? One that says yes, this was written for you. You belong here. I had been gifted that.
And it's something I'll never forget.
Completing #The100DayProject As An Artist
Completing "The 100 Day Project" was very beneficial for my own personal development and practice within my work. With the daily stresses of running a business, certain tasks begin to take over quiet moments. As the to-do list lengthens, you find yourself cutting out anything that you consider 'unproductive'; that yoga class every morning, cooking dinner, watching a sunrise, journaling with coffee, and maybe even creating something just to create.
I have been a lover and supporter of Elle Luna since the debut of her book, The Crossroads Of Should And Must, and always wondered what it might be like to complete the 100 days. Friends had done it and developed their work in new ways. Others had tried and given up halfway through. After a few weeks of back and forth, I decided that the only way to know was to actually try. What harm could come from it? I was in need of a refreshing personal project. Something just for me.
With goal setting, I've always been taught to speak it out loud. If you're nervous that you won't follow through, tell a friend, tell a stranger, just send it out so that the universe holds you accountable. I knew that announcing my commitment to the project on social media would be the only way I could push myself to follow through, even when it became difficult. Knowing that others were watching was the first push I needed to begin.
Choosing a medium and subject really was the easiest part for me. The figure was the study I was going back to in my work. Ink pen was the original drawing medium in which I had been taught as a child. And adding color, in some form of abstract stroke, kept it fun and interesting. A form of mindless play. I never worried about the composition or palette. Whatever I had, I used. Whatever I felt, I created.
The most interesting part about this project was that so much changed depending on the day. I never really gave much thought to how much can happen in the course of 100 days. There's days you don't feel like doing much of anything. Hard days. Emotional days. There are days of travel and those you want to shut your brain off. Days of deadlines, days of no sleep. Days of visiting family or celebrations. But still, I made a commitment. And I learned that pushing through and keeping that practice whole can really make a positive impact on your mentality and emotional connection to your work. It became a form of mediation. Those simple moments, no matter what time of day. They were for me. No one else. I craved them. I began needing them.
Working through this project from the start date to end was helpful and encouraging. You cheer on others who are creating with you. You search hashtags and discover new work you've never seen before. I highly encourage anyone to take part; whether you write or paint or sing or craft. It may just be the reset button you need.
Below are some of my favorite studies from my 100 days. Did you participate in this project? Comment below to share your project and social handle!
To see more of the project, visit #100DaysOfFigureAndForm hashtag on instagram
I'm so grateful to have had such positive feedback in this personal project. To make one your own, they are now available for purchase on my website.
Celebrating One Year..
Charleston is now home.
As we enter the ending of June, this month marks one year of calling Charleston home. Living on the coast has been a goal of mine as long as I can remember, and residing here in the south has been nothing short of a dream. Folly Beach and Charleston have given me experiences, inspiration, and incredible people that I will cherish for a lifetime. As both an artist and as a human, I feel an incomprehensible amount of gratitude for the outpour of love, success and encouragement that I have received here. xx
Facing Imposter Syndrome
It is ironic that growth of your business can lead to doubt. As creatives, we are susceptible to fear-driven insercuties. Courage and confidence are necessary in order to thrive.
Psychologists define Imposter Syndrome as the persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud. That any day soon, the world will point fingers and laugh directly in your face; how could you ever be qualified to do what you do? The fear that everyone knows you're a fraud. One of the most important facts I've come to know about the feelings of Imposter Syndrome-- is that you are not alone.
These thoughts have the potential to breed debilitating self doubt. Ironically, Imposter Syndrome is known to rear its ugly head with the outpour of success. Suddendly you feel the world is staring at you. At your work. Thinking, "she's not a real artist! He's not a qualified musician! Those photographs aren't even taken by a real photographer!" Years ago, I read a study in college that deemed over 70% of successful people experiencing this syndrome at least once in their lifetime.
Imposter Syndrome is basically another form of anxiety, created in our own head. Feelings of inadeqaucy and insecurity to prevent us from living beyond fear and achieving greatness.
In order to overcome these thoughts, I've created a system for myself. I'm hoping that maybe these viewpoints can help and encourage other creatives to face these daunting thoughts. Remind others that you do not need permission. You are competent. You are valued.
Most importantly, like any trauma or weakness, we have to acknowledge its presence. Welcome it. Stare it in the face and be sure it knows we are facing it. That it will be on its way out.
Showing up in something that cannot be downplayed during these times of uncertainty. Usually, in times of doubt, it's incredibly effortless to throw in the towel and let it swallow us whole. Continue to be unapologically you. Write down the compliments you receive about your work. Remember that people are responding to your work and all that it stands for. Play and perfect your craft. Remind yourself in every way possible that you actually are worthy. You are on this journey because your creativity has gotten you this far. Continue to expose yourself.
Eliminate these feelings by ceasing to downplay your success. You are growing because people value you. They connect to your creations. Your success has nothing to do with pure luck.
Talk to others about your fear of "being found out". More often than not, many of us struggle with the same damaging insercutieies and are often nervous to ask for a helping hand. Community is so important.
As for knowledge, if there is something you feel you lack-- teach yourself. Research it. Study it. Learn it inside and out. Take classes. Visit conferences. Study under a person in your craft. If there is something specific you feel you need to know better, you'll feel so much better working through it and gaining knowledge. Confidence in your craft is so important. Embrace your humbleness.
Tending to your mental health is so significant, in and outside of creative endeavors. In order to keep growing, to keep reaching others-- we have to rise above it all. Overcome.