As a member of The Gallery in Williams, I have agreed to participate in committee work. This gives the artists the opportunity to try out new things or dust off old skills. When I was asked to participate in the Video Committee, it fell in the “new things” category for me and I was unsure what I would be contributing. The surprising thing for me is what I’m learning from interviewing my fellow artists.
I’ve learned that Tom sees being an Artist as a heroic endeavor. Kris experiences her entire life as a work of art, not just when she is drawing or making metal sculpture, but to her, everyday interactions with nature is an artistic expression. I’ve seen a change come over Gretchen when she talked about her connection to her ancestors with the traditions of fiber art. And recently I’ve seen a fiery side of Lee come out when she spoke of her passion for “the hunt” for unusual materials to complete her work.
It’s my job to be listening for those moments during the interview process when the artist speaks from the heart about what really inspires them. The signs might be subtle; their eyes light up, they sit up, their voice takes on an animated quality, but the change is there. What emerges can be unexpected, soulful, revealing and moving. These are the threads that connect the artist to their art. Perhaps when we feel compelled to buy a work of art, we are also connecting to those same threads that inspire the artist.
Sincerely yours,
Patty Hoisch
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