I'm not sure I invented this, but occasionally I like to reference what I have titled the "3 E's" in my art practise. These came about when I was on an art residency and attempting to explain my experiences of building and maintaining a dedicated focus of subject and going "deep" into my ideas.
Experience - is about connecting with all possible ways that I can experience my art focus. It is an opportunity to use all my senses (yes, all of them) in the creation process...think about the sound that the brush makes as it wipes paint across the surface, the noise of the sewing machine, or the rustle of paper torn from the pad...what unique and precious sounds those are! Does art smell? Of course it does....the smells of mineral spirits, varnishes....and the touch, oh, the touch of fabrics as we stitch, the soft smear of paints with a palette knife and perhaps the smooth surface of marble as the sculptor works away...words like sensuous or lush come to mind.
During those moments when working on a somewhat mindless, repetitve task, I like to challenge myself to mentally describe the sensations I experience in my art making and how I feel during the process. The experience of synesthesia comes to mind when stimulation of one sense leads to experiences in a second sense - think of experiencing a colour when hearing a specific sound or tasting words...oh the possibilties! Van Gogh wrote to his brother that sounds had colours and that certain colours, like blue and yellow, were like fireworks for his senses. Here's an interesting article about artists who experienced synesthesia: https://mymodernmet.com/synesthesia-art/ I wonder if I would enjoy the experience of synesthesia?
Experiment - art never explodes, fully formed, from our minds. Instead it is a continuous conversation - an exchange of ideas - sometimes loving whispers and sometimes a furious argument. Experimentation is essential - a conduit for growth, inspiring new narratives and pushing boundaries of imagination. Just as words are woven together in novel ways during a conversation, I experiment with mediums, styles, and concepts to unveil fresh perspectives and unveil unexplored emotions.
When I dare to challenge the familiar, I embrace the unknown, nurturing an environment conducive to innovation. Failures become stepping stones, guiding the artistic journey toward refinement and mastery. The act of experimentation breeds resilience, for in its embrace, I learn not only to accept imperfection but to celebrate its role in shaping my artistic identity.
In listening to a recent podcast by Nicholas Wilton, he discussing "failing forward" and that by failing multiple times or making sh*t in our art, we know when the best art is made. In other words...the imperfections of other work make the perfect stand out. I love that phrase! You can hear that podcast here: https://www.art2life.com/2023/08/16/the-art-of-mistakes-nicholas-wilton-ep-95/
Exploration - as an art practise serves as a potent vehicle for the journey of self-discovery and unrestrained expression. It encourages us to venture beyond the surface layers of our identity, delving into the intricate landscapes of our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In art, we ask the tough questions about ourselves, our realtionships with others and the world.
As we immerse ourselves in the process, we confront challenges that mirror the the innermost of ourselves and becomes a manifestation of our inner world, rendering tangible the intangible emotions that dwell within. It is a way of healing and growth, bringing us to the best of ourselves.
Art also becomes a dialogue between us as the artist, and the world. Ultimately, the journey of exploration through art is a perpetual process, mirroring the evolving nature of life itself.
Thoughts?
The images are mono gelprints that I use in my Casco Vello series. These ones and other slightly monochromatic pieces will be used in future work. To see my recent pieces go to: https://www.susanpm.com/casco-vello-sales-page/
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