Jumping In
Recently I did something that I have never done. I entered a judged art show with my art. I think I have actually never entered a competition of any kind before. I asked myself why it took me so long to do it. Why now after all of these years of just being satisfied with my own assessment of my skills did I decide to enter a contest?
I think that it came from a desire to fully participate in the art scene here in Benton County. I don’t want to sit on the side lines anymore. I want to get in there and be part of things. I also wanted to hear from other artists that were not my friends, and that had no motive to make me feel good. To get an honest assessment of my skills from someone who was qualified and unbiased.
The poor Judge, Kelsey Raines must have been taken aback by my questions. “Why did you choose my art? Why this painting of mine and not that painting? What would you change if this were your painting? ” It took her a minute to realize that I was looking for actual feedback. Which she graciously gave me and which I really appreciate.
And it did something for me. I find myself looking for the next show. I think I feel included now. Like I am a full member of the “artist” club. Silly I know. Something about jumping in has given me the courage to … well… jump in. And it has made me want to increase my skills. To face the places in my art that need improvement. To go ahead and commit to the hard work, and attention to detail that make a piece of art something special.
This was super fun. It was super worthwhile. And I think I’ll do more of it!
Thank you to Dina Kowal and Lynette Stokes and all of their team for putting on a great show. And thanks to Kelsey Raines for her valuable opinions.
Lake Light. 2022 Winner of Best in show and Best in Category at the Benton County Art Walk
C Highway 2022 winner for Artistic excellence at the Benton County Art Walk
