What is art to me?

 I found printmaking as a sophomore in college. I was pursuing a degree in engineering and needed an elective to fill my schedule. Printmaking found me. I was searching for relief, clarity and direction in my life and I turned to art as an outlet to explore my aimlessness. Taking that first class led to another that then lead to series of opportunities and decisions that illuminated for me the path to becoming an artist. The steps it took me to get to where I am now as a artist highlight to me the power of opening yourself up to opportunity. Letting in one small experience can set you off on a path that would not have existed if you hadn’t said yes to small opportunities. Growth and maturity in all things takes time and patience and I have seen my own evolution through the process of making art. 

Making art is a deeply spiritual act. The process of creation challenges you to grow as you mirror the experiences of the world around you and as you magnify the divinity within you. Artmaking is about the refinement of your soul and character. To make something that didn’t exist before requires patience, humility, and boldness to act. Making art reminds me of my obligation to act. It also reminds me of my limitations and powerlessness to the forces bigger than myself. Taking part in creating echos the conversation that is had between god and ourselves and the forces that stand against us. I am not helpless and I am not sovereign. I view myself as a co- author. I am given a set of circumstances and materials that I do not ordain. My work lies in asking myself what I can create with what I am given. Periods of drought often come when I forget my part as and active agent in the universe. Art is a discipline to refine me as I learn how to act well and create good. What good am I able to create? What good do I want to see? 

What is art to you?

Making art changes us. The art itself stands to inspire us of beauty and divinity. Art reminds us of the power we have to tell stories. Art shows us the power of storytelling. Surrounding ourselves with art of value honors our dignity and signals to our spirits that we deserve good and pleasure. Art tells us that pleasure is meaningful. You deserve pleasure and meaning.

As an artist I believe that our actions inspire how we engage with our divinity. Making art is my path and the work that I was meant to do. I believe that the work I do is meant to change me and that the work I make is meant to inspire others. My art stands to inspire people to commune with their stories and learn to embrace their agency in their own story telling.