To the Fashion Museum in Bath…a new exhibition….inspiration for A potential forthcoming archive piece for Fringe Art Bath…
Artist
To the Fashion Museum in Bath…a new exhibition….inspiration for A potential forthcoming archive piece for Fringe Art Bath…
I have been reading a plethora of texts, some say to fathom, others less so. All in all, it’s getting a bit intellectual at Pollie Towers, just the way we like it. Anyway, as a bit of light relief I went to an open drawing and painting class at the school where I do my Life classes. I decided to have a sketch using my pastels. Did I mention them ever? Rembrandt pastels bought for a song on eBay because the box was mashed. Transplanted to an empty Woden pencil box and they are perfect for schlepping around with. Anyway, here’s the finished main sketch …the art room
But then I developed it, mixing in other sketches….notice, I didn’t say ‘played’ with it…serious…I like it. You?
hurray!! My advance copy of Fair Acre Press’ latest ebook in their ingenious Maligned Species project has just plopped into my inbox….and there, on page 48 is my poem!!!! Oh yes, Pollie Math, published poet. That’s me tonight. I’m thrilled. The book is lovely, full of poems in praise (and otherwise) of the humble nettle. It’s only GBP 2.99. Have a look, go on.
TI have just finished a most marvellous book, ‘Think like an artist’ by Will Gompertz. I have mentioned him before in the context of his other book about art history. I think its brilliant. Sometimes I tweet him to fawn. I do hope he doesn’t think I’m a stalker.
Anyway, reading this marvellous book has led me to some thoughts. I am going to be working some of them up a little bit more for my MA but here are some outlines. It would be interesting to see what you guys
Lots to consider. I better make a plan.
I’m learning a lot on this MA. I have already discussed how I’ve come to realize that seriousness in approach increases the chances of a serious i.e. Considered response. I’ve been thinking about it a lot. Seriously.
Today we had a lecture about photography compared to painting. It was almost metaphysical in content. I loved it. And it reinforced my embryonic realization that perhaps, just perhaps, I am not a charlatan. Perhaps I can do this.
So, here is something that I’ve been working on…a life painting rescaled and mixed with my image archive. A post modem stained glass window for today’s gods and behaviors. Does it make you think? What? I’d love to know.
So, having children can lead your brain to emulsify for a while. Not because of my female status, but because of sleep deprivation, multi tasking and multi conversations, cat herding talents and the usual domestic schlep. I am finally removing the glue from my synapses by studying for this MA. It’s a great feeling. I recommend it.
This afternoon we discussed a critical essay. The exact text is not really the point. The important aspect is that I can hold my own these days. I can contribute, question and have a (partially) informed opinion. It’s marvellous. Invigorating.
Today’s discussion included a debate around whether it is possible to convey emotion via a painting. A seemingly simple question but when considered in conjunction with an assertion that all artistic endeavour is only done after a conscious or unconscious internal filtering and rationalisation – a translation – it becomes more interesting. Do you ever get a pure message across? What is lost in translation? Is there such a thing as a truly expressive artistic gesture? If you agree with the initial assertion, then no, there isn’t. Does it matter so long as one manages to ‘touch’ the viewer? Discuss.
And the more fundamental realisation? To be taken seriously, to get thoughtful critique, discourse and constructive comment you need to approach your practice with equal seriousness. If you downplay your thoughts, your process, others will not stop to see your depth. Why would they when you do not yourself?
I found myself making light of some of the pieces I have been working on recently when in fact, I have found resonance in them. I am starting to realise that if I want to continue with this artistic role then I have to commit. Method acting is obligatory. As with any life choice, I have to stand up and be counted. I have to stop playing the ‘dumb’ card.
This is not a comfortable realisation. I have to admit to playing the fool so as to protect myself from others’ ridicule, disappointments and disagreement. It’s a fairly familiar tactic used by many. But it won’t serve me well now. It’s time to grow up. I hope I can do it with grace.
And no, no punchline today. Today I’m all purpose and focus. Today it’s just me.
Things I have learnt this weekend…
Hope your weekend was as good for you as this one was/is for me. Surprise I store for tomorrow guys…..watch this space.