“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, “I used everything you gave me”. Erma Bombeck
I
pen this blog with some trepidation, as I never wish to succumb to the sin of
pride. Touting one’s artistic achievements does not come naturally to me.
However, after much prodding from my husband, I realize that this is a
significant event in my development as an artist and is part of this journey of
mine that deserves to be recorded.
I recently decided to participate in the “Artist Guild” competition that is
held each year in South Carolina. The competition is a Tri State Exhibition
representing, South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina. It was the 39th
Annual Juried Exhibition with the distinguished and gifted Mana Hewitt as the Juror. Mana is the Director of the McMasters Art Gallery, as well as, Director of
Undergraduate Studies at the University of South Carolina. Prior to
joining the University she taught at Columbia College. Mana’s work has
taken many forms over the years including ceramics, painting, and metals. She
exhibits widely in the United States and has been included in exhibitions
overseas. Recognized with numerous awards, Mana received the South Carolina
Arts Commission Artist Fellowship and in 2012 several of her works were
selected for inclusion in the100 Southern Artists.
To
enter the competition I selected a relatively large piece (it measured 36 x18)
that I had recently completed, and titled, “After the Day”. This particular
painting was somewhat of a departure for me in terms of style from my normal
landscape paintings. The emphasis was shapes, color and contrasts. But I
realized that it is important to expand beyond one’s comfort zone….a bit like
the turtle, who only makes progress when he sticks his neck out. So like the
turtle I stuck my neck out and submitted the painting. The painting placed 3rd
in the competition and I say that with all humility. After initial state of disbelief I realized the honor I have been given and am very grateful and
thrilled.
 |
| 'After the Day" |
Mana
Hewitt made the following statement in describing the artists she chose to
recognize, and to be included in this group is humbling indeed.
“The artists singled out
for special recognition this year demonstrate a dedication to innovation in
craft or content. Their sincere engagement with the world through the
works of art is commendable and represents the highest calling of artist to
make work that explores the many facets of our shared experience. The
works exhibit an undeniable ambition in their scope and
execution. To me, their merit was immediate and undeniable and I hope my
small encouragement will help usher them to attempt even greater works in the
future. In selecting works to be included, I asked myself: Which of these
artworks moves me aesthetically, emotionally, or viscerally.”
