I once wrote, “I create art not because I want to, but because I have to. Without it, I am incomplete.” That sentiment has carried me through a two-year journey of creating art every day and taking as many classes as possible. This commitment has been a joy, an invaluable learning experience, and the first chapter in what I now call “phase one” of my evolution as an artist.
As I near the end of this chapter, I find myself reflecting on what comes next. I once thought I’d finish with a singular goal or focus, but that’s not who I am. I’m a scientist, a gambler, and an eager student of life. I love to experiment, take risks, and continually seek new things to learn. I named myself The Evolving Artist for a reason, and that reason feels more obvious now than ever.
So, what’s next? While organizing my art spaces recently, I stumbled upon an old piece of paper with the answer: Share and collaborate.
This idea was born during a talk I attended about female artists furthering their careers. While the event itself didn’t resonate, it led me to meet a local artist who introduced me to her inspiring studio. For months, I dreamed of creating a similar community in my own town, a space where artists could connect, share, and grow. I balanced my books, researched real estate, applied for grants, and considered every possibility. Yet, I realized that building a physical space wasn’t feasible for me.
It was a tough realization, but the spark never died. When I found that piece of paper again, the fire reignited, only this time, the path forward became clearer. My dream doesn't necessarily have to start in a physical studio, there are other ways to begin.
Maybe I can’t build the studio I once envisioned, but perhaps I can create something even broader, more accessible…a community where we share ideas, collaborate, encourage and inspire one another.
Who knows? I know, because I am about to try it.