Community.
A: a unified body of individuals:, B: a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society.
For an artist, you benefit by being part of a community. Whether it is being a part of a larger group (Etsy,) or a small group of like minded painters, or even a small group of creatively minded people, not necessarily of the same interest. You give and get support, encouragement, it fosters pride in your work. Enthusiasm for your craft. A public to launch it upon. I could not lead a solitary life. There are definitely times when I prefer to be alone. I enjoy my quiet, sunny house, where I can create in peace. All aspects of my life cannot be led in solitude. I really began to think about this over the weekend. A retreat spent with a group of amazingly creative individuals that were genuinely excited to hear about my creative side.
Pissarro, "The Boulevard Montmartre at Night"
In college, there were several of us that shared a studio space. I remember late nights, painting, and alternately sitting in the window breathing in the night. We were close, sharing our work with one another, seeking opinions, insight, validation. Some form these communities during their schooling, sharing studios, having critiques, some move to areas that inspire them and seek out those of similar vocation. Imagine being an artist in Montmartre, France in the late 1800’s. There was an amazing aura around the place. So much going on. Wonderful art came out of this area, this time. Life was about soaking it in, and then getting it out. I don’t necessarily strive to make Nashville a place like that, although, imagine how it could be. To create the romance and allure of the arts, not just in music, but in studio arts as well. To make this a place that is not all about making it big, or the next big thing, but a place to immerse yourself in color, texture, romance, and the feel of it all. I just am really thankful for the amazing group of people around me and their encouragement in my art. They continue to inspire me.
How true. I wish I had friends like that in college. I might have actually continued with my degree at that point. Of course looking back on things and changing them is impossible, so all we can do is look ahead and make our place at this moment and time.
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