Let’s get philosophical for a moment.
If a tree falls in the forest and there is no one near to hear it, does it make a sound?
Or put another way, if the work of an artist never leaves the studio, is it still art?
I would say yes to both but, re: the art, nothing makes it feel more “real” than getting it out in public and, even better, celebrating it with an opening.
One works hard, mostly in solitude, doing the best one can to crystalize an idea by translating it visually. And while the whole thing may make perfect sense in the moment (and in your own head), it’s actually having the opportunity to see those ideas reflected back through the eyes of others that fully closes the circle.
The opening for Full Bloom at The Satellite Gallery was such a delight. Seeing the series I’ve been chipping away on for the past 2-1/2 years, framed and then considerately organized in context by a skillful curator, is icing on the cake to the joy of making the work in the first place. Add to that a lively and convivial gathering of thoughtfully engaged viewers and you have the proverbial cherry crowning it all.
A huge thank you to the collector of this piece who generously loaned it to the show, allowing all my ladies to be together.
If you’re interested in my frame of reference and the evolution of this series, here are the remarks I gave during the event.
So gratifying to know that The Satellite Gallery is organizing community events around Full Bloom
Full Bloom will be on view through the 4th of July weekend.
✷
And finally, a few summer reading suggestions.
It’s been a happy coincidence that in the midst of pulling together the loose ends for Full Bloom this spring, several of the books I’ve read also center on strong, resilient women. The protagonists of Elizabeth Strout’s Oh William!, Elizabeth O’Connor’s Whale Fall and Sarah Winman’s Still Life, all immersed in navigating life, persist and, each in her own way, triumph.
It was a perfect opening to a fabulous show. Congrats!
Amen!!!
For whatever reason, emojis don’t show up, so I’ll just say thank you too, Janet!
Thanks John – so special to have you and Liz there!
The show is SO elegant. Well done Martha (and Betsy, of course!) Another cherry on top is the inclusion of some of Betsy’s gorgeous house sculptures, echoing the house motif in the portraits. WOW!!!
I am SO fortunate in the artists I keep company with – for their support, counsel and inspiration. Thank you for being among them, on all fronts!
It is a lovely show. Your work is so intricate and mesmerizing. Thanks for the attractive gallery shots. It does look great.
It’s a fantastic space, but the vibe and overall presentation is all thanks to you!
Betsy, it is wonderful to see that your show has drawn/gathered so much attention. It looks beautiful. Congratulations! We will just miss it on our July trip north. xox
Too bad about the timing, but you can have a private viewing of the pieces that come home ;^)
Betsy,
I can’t tell you how happy I was to see your exhibit “Full Bloom”! Following on social media is always a pleasure, but seeing your art in person was a beautiful and joyful experience! I could see that you were in full bloom as well!
Thanks so much, Donna! Finally getting to meet you in person was a highlight for me, plus it was so nice to have a chance to chat. I’m looking forward to seeing how your project progresses ;^)