Putting together this presentation was an eye-opening experience. I really had no idea there were this many opportunities for artists. It also gave me an opportunity to reflect on what is important to me with respect to my creative practice. I decided that being in places that are away from civilization were a priority because it seems to mesh nicely with my newfound creative theme: discussing how our environment affects us and vice versa.
Another big realization that I had is that, I feel, in order to be ready to apply for some of these residencies I really need to up my game. It means that the standards that I hold my self to for documentation and presentation need to go way up. I think it’s all part of the process as I’m finishing my first year in the EDP program. Not having a traditional art background, there were several things I needed to understand and learn. I’m confident that I’m now on a path to creating and documenting in the way that is required. In my opinion, the quality of my work, especially from a conceptual level, has increased many times over. I also know have a better knowledge base to discuss art and what makes pieces good or bad.
I’m still nervous about stepping up to this challenge but that is part of the adventure and I’m always up for an adventure, especially when it is in places like Banff or the Arctic. In the end, I’ve decided that 2018 is pretty much out for me due to summer travel plans, which is OK because it gives me the opportunity to produce some more work over the summer, add to my CV, and get a package ready that is of the necessary caliber to apply for these residencies. That being said, the first one I will apply for will be the Banff Artist in Residence for Winter 2019. Needless to say, I am equally excited and nervous to throw my hat into the ring!