3 Field Experiences: Growing As An Artist
100 Level Gallery: The “Growing” Part
Exploring the 100-Level Gallery was an eye-opening experience, to say the least. As an artist actively involved on campus, it was intriguing to witness the amalgamation of creativity and social justice advocacy within the gallery space. One aspect that particularly resonated with me was the emphasis on accessibility, which seemed to permeate every facet of the gallery's existence.
In the realm of art, accessibility is often an overlooked consideration. Yet, as I navigated through the gallery, I couldn't help but notice the deliberate efforts made to ensure that individuals of all abilities could fully engage with the artworks. The notion that accessibility shouldn't be an afterthought struck a chord with me. It made me reflect on my own practice and how I could integrate similar principles to make my work more inclusive.
The commitment to accessibility wasn't merely lip service; it was evident in the very design of the gallery itself. From the choice of entrance to the layout of the exhibits, every detail seemed meticulously crafted to minimize barriers and maximize inclusion. This got me thinking about the role of arts in social justice. Art has the power to transcend boundaries and amplify marginalized voices. By prioritizing accessibility, the gallery was not only showcasing art but also advocating for social change.
As someone who has grappled with their own disability, seeing initiatives like the 100 Level Gallery in action serves as both inspiration and validation.This gallery helped me recognize my disability, I need glasses because I am near-sighted and without them, I would not do well in life let alone classes. It reinforces the idea that art is a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment, regardless of one's physical or cognitive abilities. It reminded me of the importance of representation and the need to create spaces where everyone feels seen and heard.
One aspect that left me pondering was the sustainability of these ideals as the gallery continues to grow. How will Sunny ensure that the principles of accessibility and social justice remain central to the gallery's mission? Perhaps documenting these ideals in a formalized mission statement rooted in a social justice framework could serve as a guiding light, holding future endeavors accountable to these core values.
In conclusion, the 100 Level Gallery has not only broadened my understanding of the intersection between arts and social justice but has also sparked a deeper reflection on my own practice as an artist. It has challenged me to think more critically about the impact of my work and the importance of creating spaces that are truly inclusive. As I continue on my artistic journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a transformative experience.
Berkshire Arts Association Fellowship: Connecting with Other Artists
My journey as an artist has taken me to the Berkshire Arts Association. In which I and a few other artists at MCLA was selected to participate in based on our submissions. It has been an enlightening experience. As I presented myself as an artist within the greater art community, I sought to bring representation to the forefront, particularly focusing on black voices and experiences. Establishing the Insomnia Artworks brand aesthetic was a significant step in this direction, aiming to infuse gravitas with finesse—a blend that reflects the depth and complexity of social justice issues.
During the Gallery Opening, I had the privilege of interacting with fellow artists like Mya Terry, Gabe, Jules, Wongi, and Vida, whose recognition of the crown motif in my work sparked meaningful conversations. Mya and Gabe saw it as a homage to rapper J. Cole, while Wongi, Jules, and Vida connected it to the iconic imagery of artist Basquiat within both of my artworks. These encounters reinforced the importance of artists connecting and forming bonds to stand united against corporations seeking to exploit our creative endeavors.
My thinking on the transformative power of art in fostering social change was further shaped by watching the webinar "How Do Arts and Culture Make a Difference?" The discussions on building creative leadership skills among youth resonated deeply with me. It became clear that artists have the potential to activate the social imagination, paving the way for new ideas and perspectives to emerge. Art has the ability to transform perceptions and challenge societal norms, yet measuring its impact remains elusive. As I contemplated meaningful indicators of change, I realized that art projects with intentionality can create opportunities for civil dialogue on complex topics. By facilitating conversations and fostering empathy, art can serve as a catalyst for social progress. This thinking fueled my Ideas for Project: SMAIA.
Meeting fellow artists within the Berkshires, such as Mya, Gabe, Jules, Wongi, and Vida, has been instrumental in expanding my understanding of the intersection between art and social justice. These connections have reinforced my commitment to using my artistic platform to advocate for meaningful change and amplify marginalized voices within our community. As I continue on this journey, I am inspired by the potential of art to inspire action and foster a more equitable and just society.
2024 Undergraduate Research Conference: Senior Art Show Gallery51
Artists: Hailey Rolon(Beasts), Matt Flanagan(Synths), Skylah Zayas)
Throughout my time at working on Project: SMAIA.I interacted with fellow artists like Hailey Rolon, Matt Flanagan, and Skylah Zayas, and I've delved deeply into the intersection of art and social justice. Being in close proximity to these talented artists allowed me to witness firsthand how they establish their creative environments and navigate the challenges inherent in artistic expression. From periodic check-ins to observing their progress and growth, I've gained valuable insights into the process of artistic development and the resilience required to overcome obstacles.
As I reflect on my future as an artist, my time spent with the senior artists at Gallery51 has prompted me to critically examine how I intend to utilize my space and resources, particularly during the upcoming summer artist residency. Observing how the senior artists organized their tools and protected their completed work has provided valuable insights into effective studio management. These experiences have raised important questions for me: How will I organize my tools? How can I best catalog and protect my completed work? Through this introspection, I've begun to envision how I can contribute to social justice through my art.The planning process for my senior art project and artist residency, specifically focusing on Projects "JXJ" and "ODD-13" centered around character design and animation, presents a unique opportunity to explore themes of social justice. While I'm not yet certain of the specific approach I will take, the exposure to diverse perspectives and creative processes during my interactions with the senior artists has provided me with ample food for thought. I am eager to continue exploring how my art can serve as a vehicle for meaningful and impactful engagement with social justice issues.
The importance of collaboration and community in artistic growth has become increasingly apparent to me. Engaging with other artists and sharing perspectives not only fosters creativity but also deepens our understanding of complex social issues. Through dialogue and collaboration, we can amplify voices and catalyze change through our art. Hailey inspired me to draw and animate the Dragon character she created, Skylah’s Artwork allowed me to realize the liberties I can take in creating my art, and Matt’s work helped me learn how to think beyond 2 dimensions. These experiences only hammered home ideas I had while attending class: The prevalence of technology has cultivated a culture focused on personal bias and affirmation, fueling a divide between individuals and hindering our ability to recognize universal truths. Despite this, technology offers a sense of familiarity, keeping us content yet detached from broader perspectives. As we navigate the evolving societal and technological landscapes, it is imperative to strive for a balance between embracing our individuality and recognizing our shared humanity. That balance is what I have been practicing to achieve and why I wanted to connect with the artists around me.
In conclusion, my experiences at Gallery 51 and my interactions with fellow artists have pushed me to reflect on the role of art in social justice. As I embark on my artistic journey, I am inspired to use my creative platform to advocate for justice, equity, and inclusion. By harnessing the power of art and collaboration, I aim to contribute to meaningful social change and continue to grow as an artist.
