Week 14 April 16 - 22

Residency- Burnsville, Talking Suitcases- Susan Armington- 0 Hrs

Our session was canceled due to weather, again!!

Residency- AVIVO ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 8 Hrs

This Thursday I completed my two day workshop on collage at the AVIVO ArtWorks studio. We started our first session on Thursday at 2 pm. I set up all of my materials before hand and reviewed the history packet made for the lesson. I was expecting at least ten participants, but ended up having twelve. We started the workshop with introductions saying our name and preferred medium to work with. After that we read through a packet I had prepared with information on the history of collage. The packet included descriptions of collage that pre-dated the cubist movement and branched into dadaism. As a group, we discussed how collage in the early 1900's was influenced by war and political propaganda in the art scene. Afterwards I demoed how to start an image transfer using matt-medium and a printed image. Each member began their image transfer with images that they chose from AVIVO's collage bin. Once the majority of the group was done with their image transfers, I proposed that they try and make a quick ten minute collage. My goal was to challenge them to compose a piece in a simple fashion. Many of the participants made quick cut and paste collages that related to their sensibilities as artist. At the end they shared their experience in the workshop and spoke about the work they started. Overall, the members were engaged with the process that I had shared. They all seemed excited to see how their transfers would turn out. After the group shared, we cleaned up the mess.

My second part of the workshop was the next day. I came and set up my supplies so that we could start right away. Almost every member from the previous day showed up. We did have a couple joiner, but I was prepared to show them how to start image transfers. We began with introductions again and went straight into the transfer reveals. I demoed how to reveal a transfer using a wet napkin to scrape away the paper from each image. The group followed my instruction, but shortly after, I discovered that many of their images did not transfer at all. We talked about what could have gone wrong and decided that the surface along with the various types of paper contributed to the issue. Although most of their images did not transfer, the group managed to create interesting work based from their original ides. I demoed a couple of exciting materials that I often use in my own collages, including matt-medium glazing and water-soluble crayons. Some members decided to use these materials as they continued to work. I circulated the room while they crafted each piece. Below is what they made.

    

     

I was pleased that each member figured out how to make an interesting piece despite the transfers failing. Each one had its own tone. The group was extremely supportive of the lesson as well as each others work. Many of them mentioned that they would try the process again. Overall, I felt that those who participated, demonstrated their ability to compose a thoughtful and creative collage. If I could change one thing about the lesson, it would be experimenting with materials a bit more before bringing them to a group of students.  

Week 13 April 9 - 15

Residency- Burnsville, Talking Suitcases- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

This week at the Ebenezer Care Center, Susan and I started the day by preparing suitcases from all three groups. Last week we had members pick out their favorite fabric to be glued on the inside of each suitcase. Susan and I worked on glueing these pieces down and making sure the each handmade object had a legible description of the story attached to it. If there were objects that were light enough, we would glue them on to the top panel inside each suitcase. Finalizing each suitcase was exciting but had to be done quickly because we had to be at the afternoon group on time. Below are images of what the particpants made during the workshop.   

It was truly a privilege to see all of the finalized suitcases together. I noticed that each one was uniquely crafted and mirrored each artist personality. There is such an incredible enthusiasm engrained in each object. While we worked on the suitcases, I reflected on their memories of the places they had been , the people they loved, and the wonderful things they had seen. Iv'e learned a lot working with Susan and am grateful to have been given the opportunity. The participants themselves have enriched my experience in this workshop. They have shared with me their sweet stories and experiences in a lively, creative way. They have shown me how integral art can be when reflecting on ones own life. All of them deserved to be heard, felt, remembered, empowered, capable, supported, reflect positively on their life.

Residency- AVIVO ArtWroks- Jes Reyes- 0 Hrs

Jes and I were both sick this Thursday, so we were not in the studio.

  

Week 12 April 2nd - 8th

Residency- Burnsville, Talking Suitcases- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

This week Susan and I visited each group. For the first and last session, we had them pick their favorite designed paper and fabric to spice up their suitcases. Susan had taken the time to photograph each member and print them out to be placed on the outside of their suitcases. We organized our supplies on our cart and went to each site. The goal was to have each suitcase ready for presentation on the final session. The suitcases just lack a certain pizazz being white on the outside. I was personally pleased to see so many people working hands on with materials and making each suitcase feel like their own. 

The second group was up to present. This session has fluctuated quite a bit, so we only had a few objects to showcase. We had a large turn out in the audience, which excited both Susan and I. One struggle with this second group has been encouraging people to come try out the workshop even though bible study occurs at the same time. We were lucky this week to have bible study moved to a different time. There were a lot of new faces in the audience who showed genuine interests in the project and shared thought provoking responses. Susan started with her own suitcase and then invited one of the participants to share her suitcase. She took each object out of her suitcase and told the group stories from her childhood. Susan walked around the room with the members handmade objects so that everyone could see the small details up close.  One of the participants who no longer resides at the Ebenezer care center,  had a suitcase that Susan shared with the group. I was also able to share my small box at the end. It was interesting to hear one man speak after the presentation. He is known to partake in many of the art workshops at the center, so it was nice to hear his thoughts. He spoke very highly of memory and the importance of sharing ones experience with others. Unfortunately he is dedicated to the bible study group, so we didn't get to work with him before. Hopefully he will join us for the last  two sessions. I felt that the event was a huge success and can't wait to see the other groups present.

Residency- AVIVO ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 5 Hrs

The ArtWorks studio was fairly quiet this week. We started out with Christis Comics workshop. I worked on a graphite drawing of kids making art while they worked on their comics. During open studio hours, the members worked on personal projects. Many of the usual member weren't in the studio, but I'm sure we'll see them again soon. Some of them have signed up for my workshop that's coming up. I was able to speak with members one on one about methods and materials they are interested in experimenting with for the workshop. I got some insight about a particularly important aspect that may come with collage making. Many collage artist tend to appropriate found images that have original copyright owners. The concern comes into play when an artists wants to exhibit or sell their collages. It is my understanding that if the image is altered enough from its original state, the copyright is no longer an issue. It was good to hear from the members about specific things to consider when making collages. Some where also enthusiastic about the upcoming event and showed me collage work that they had made in the past. I'm looking forward to the workshop even though i'm still a little nervous to be teaching on my own for the first time. The support from my instructor, Lynda, and Jes is very reasuring.         

   

Week 11 March 26th - April 1st

Residency- Burnsville, Talking Suitcases- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

This week, Susan and I continued her Talking Suitcases workshop at the Ebenezer Care Center. We started as we usually do by setting up a cart with supplies. This week each group would work on new box responding to what inspires or motivates them. Some would finish their box from the previous week dealing with a favorite person or pet.

Our first group was energetic and lively. There was a new woman who I got a chance to sit down and work with. She enthusiastically shared that she had twelve children some of which were adopted. She spoke fondly of them and finished a box including her son and their dog pepper. I was able to circulate the room much more than in previous sessions. I revisited several individuals and helped them with their boxes. One of our goals was to decorate the top of each box and neatly write a description of their story on the bottom of each box. This morning group was nice. I'm glad to see people joining this far along.

The second session was a little unusual this week. Unfortunately, no one was able to attend. The weather was quite dreary and gray so I wondered if that had any affect. During this time, Susan had me work on my own box for fun. I was prompted to reflect on my favorite pet. I chose my cat Piper who lives in Texas with my mom. She is notorious for getting into cat brawls and retreating like a champ. She is also a mother of many kittens, all of which have found new homes.  

To the right is the box I put together of Piper taking a cat nap in the daytime.      

The third session was also relatively small in numbers. We only had one woman come with her daughter. This week, We were able to work in the art studio by our supply closet. It had been cleaned for us to use. This was super nice and made the set-up and clean-up very smooth. The woman who came to create this week worked on a new box with her daughter. Susan and I sat with them together and helped with some drawing. They illustrated a time when they would go searching for arrowheads at an old Indian barrel ground. The new box was the largest so far and we weren't able to finish it in one session. Next week we may pick up where we left off, although Susan was hoping to have our final shareing session next time. She wants to have a majority of each group attend so they can all see what has been made.   

Residency- AVIVO ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 5 Hrs

Last Thursday the Artworks studio was the busiest day I've experienced. Christi was out of the studio today so I helped facilitate her Thursday comics class. Jes of course helped the group stay on topic. I was also able to meet another intern named Miriam. She is a student at Macalester College. I was happy to work with someone else in the studio especially on such an energetic day. Together, Miriam and I unlocked the supply closet to gather materials for members. We both spoke with each member individually to make sure they were doing alright. We suggested colors when asked. I was pleased to meet a couple of new members who seemed excited to be a part of the studio. Overall it may have been busy, but I felt that I was able to meet with everyone in the studio at least twice. Midway through the day, Jes made some announcement of upcoming events and included my collage workshop. I was able to speak about the workshop as well. By the end of the day, the sign-up sheet was full. I'm getting more excited to expericence this workshop and will continue to prepare for its success.       

Week 10 March 19th- 25th

Residency- AVIVO ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 5 Hrs

My day in the ArtWorks studio was relaxing. I began by wiping down tables and checking the supply closets. I noticed that some of the drawing utensils could be organized and worked on sharpening pencils. I decided to spend the rest of the day testing markers. Many of the members use them frequently, so I wanted to get rid of the markers that where dry. There were many quiet moments in the studio where members worked diligently on their artwork. Periodically, I'd abandon the markers to see what they were working on and asked if they needed any supplies or help. Everybody was tuned into their work and didn't need much help. Occasionally, a question of color or composition would arise.

Bellow are a members works done in marker. This member has made a series of drawings like these with a wonderfully loud color palette. I look forward to seeing more each week. 

I also made a little test sheet with markers when I was checking for dry ones. I composed a little lattice design. It was a fairly cathartic process.

Week 9 - March 13th - 18th

Residency- Talking Suitcases, Burnsville- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

Last Monday Susan and I continued our work at the Ebenezer Care center in Burnsville. I was running a little late today, but made it in time to help Susan set up for our first session. We quickly loaded the cart and were on our way. The group started by discussing the boxes they started two weeks ago. Many of them remembered the stories and were excited to finish their boxes. This is the third week they worked on one specific favorite place, so many of the boxes were elaborately thought out. Some finished their box including a title and description of the scene. It has been really rewarding to see them finish their boxes. 

Susan and I had our mini lunch conference to re-energize and discuss the workshop. We often speak about our own practice as well. I've learned a lot about how she juggles teaching artist responsibilities with her personal art projects. Afterwards we get set-up for our second session. This session was the same as the first; the group worked on their boxes from two weeks ago. Something amazing happened though. I met an interesting woman who didn't feel up for starting a box, but loved to share her cherished memories of a cabin in the woods. She visited it with her family every summer since she was a young girl. She brought her children when she was older. This cabin was place where she could go and get away from the city. I was enthralled to hear so many memories from a single location. Susan overheard the two of us talking and suggested that she start a box. To my surprise, the woman decided that she could start one, so we worked together for the rest of the session. 

Our third session was a busy one. We had a couple new joiners who were ready to start their own boxes. I worked with a man from Chicago. He had a lively spirit and seemed happy to share a story with the group. His most memorable characteristic was an ability to listen. He respectfully engaged with the group as they described their box. I hope I'll see him next week. This was the most comfortable week so far. I feel more connected and capable of doing this work.

Residency- Talking Suitcases, Minneapolis and St. Paul- Susan Armington- 3 Hrs

I did't have class last Tuesday due to spring break, so I joined Susan for a couple different workshops. The first was at another Ebenezer Care center five minutes away from MCAD. Susan had already set-up in the basement. I helped her fold cardboard suitcases as she introduced me to the group. There were two workers that were really helpful during the workshop, which allowed me to work individually with someone. She had attended the workshop before, but we weren't sure if she had started a box. I helped her gather materials, but she did all the drawing, cutting, and glueing. Her personality was as colorful as her box. I was pleased to have chance to work with her. I'm sad I won't be able to attend this workshop since classes are starting back up. 

The second workshop was held at The University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Susan had been working with a group of honor students for some time now. They already made a series of small objects and were prompted to store them in their own suitcase. This session, they were all prompted to share their suitcases with the group. The structure of this session was very different from the ones at Ebenezer. They had in-depth prompts to reflect on with each handmade object or box. They were encouraged to share each story in a fluid manner. I was impressed with how well they adapted to the idea of fluidity through presentation. They shared their suitcase individually and walked around the room to present each object. Even though the class had already heard many of the stories, they learn new facts about their peers just by listening to them present. For me, all the content was new. I was grateful that they let me pop in, especially on presentation day. It was nice to see talking suitcases in a different light.

 Residency- AVIVO, ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 5 Hrs

Last Thursday I started my day in the ArtWorks studio by designing a flyer for my workshop in April. It took some time to fit all the information on one sheet. I included ten sign-up lines for members. Once it was printed, Jes put it by the other flyers. As I saw a couple members sign up, my heart raced. I felt excited, nervous, curious, unprepared, and prepared simultaneously. I talked with several members about the workshop through out the, which was reassuring. I'm happy that i'll be teaching in the ArtWorks studio. Over the course of the semester, I have connected with the group in ways I never imagined.

The Flyer.

The Flyer.

The rest of the day went as usual. I talked with artists, met new people, and engaged with members as they continued working. Each session here leaves me with a sense of fulfillment and mindfulness. I won't deny that i'm nervous about the workshop, but I am also eager to be doing it at AVIVO. This is the right place for me to learn and grow. It has been wonderful to work with such supportive artists and I look forward to working with them more over the summer. I'm happy to announce that I spoke to Jes about interning in the studio and will be speaking with career services to confirm the placement.    

Week 8 - March 5th - 11th

Residency- AVIVO ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 2 Hrs

Today I started a little later than usual. I arrived at the ArtWorks studio around two and was prompted to play a cd on the stereo. I'll admit, it was truly an exciting task. I chose one by the Cars, which seemed appropriate to play after the Totally 80's cd. I popped it in and let the good times roll. 

I spent some time organizing the cd shelve. Many cases were missing their original cd, so I got rid of them to make more room. My main objective was to consolidate the space and put discs in a safe stack to prevent scratches. I had a lot of fun sorting through ArtWorks expansive collection. Some of the members seemed happy with the music I picked so I look forward to playing more in the future. I'm also glad that I was able to organize the shelves so that they can be used more by the members. 

It was a fairly busy day in the studio. Jes and I circulated around the space, meeting with all the members individually. I was pleased to have meet a few members that had not been in the studio since before I started volunteering at ArtWorks. They also seemed eager to meet and discuss their projects.

I've noticed that the members work on a variety of different surfaces and scales. It is inspiring to witness how this diverse group interacts with one another. They hold positive critiques supporting growth and development. This group is especially skilled at vocalizing their experience as viewers of their peers work. I find their process of responding incredibly motivational. In the ArtWorks community, artists work hard to strengthen not only themselves, but others as well. As I continue writing my lesson plan, I will delegate time to cater this act of emotionally responding to others strengths and victories. I am thankful that many of the members are already great at communicating their ideas and thoughts.             

 

      

Week 7 - February 26th - March 4th

Residency- Burnsville, Talking suitcases- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

Last week, Susan and I continued the Talking Suitcase workshop at the Ebenezer Care Center. As usual, we organized supplies into three groups. We finished assembling cardboard suitcases, that we'd eventually hand out at the end of each session. I was excited to give out these suitcases because it felt like a personal gesture. We wrote everyone's name on a different suitcase and stored their small hand-made objects inside. It was super pleasing to see high stacks of suitcases encapsulating numerous projects. The workshop is much easier to coordinate as we improve our mobility, efficiency and reliability. This past week, we had time to cart our supplies outside from one site to the next. The sunshine and fresh air was refreshing. I hope we will have time to walk outside every week.

 It seems like there is a growing interest in each class. We see some familiar faces but we always learn more about each individual. In every session, there are some joiners, who sometimes stay and sometimes go. One joiner in particular stayed, but didn't make her own object. Instead she helped someone next to her. Everybody is engaging more with the group offering suggestions and moral support. The stories are developing elaborately as they make new hand-made objects. This week, they continued working on their stories from previous sessions. Many had already created a background for scenes depicting a favorite place, so they worked on pop ups and drawings to further represent that place. In preparation, Susan made templates of pop-up people that could be drawn or collaged on. I found they were incredibly useful because they were general enough, so they could be easily customized. She also provided handouts of step-by-step drawing tutorials. They included a range of different subjects. Susan is teaching me, that preparartion is crucial in any type of workshop. 

Here, Susan and I sharpen color pencils so that they are ready for drawing.             

Overall, the sessions were very engaged this week. People seem excited with their storytelling and art-making each time Susan and I visit. I'm eager to be back working with Susan and can't wait to see each suitcases filled with fascinating objects and scenes.   

Week 6 - February 19th - 25th

Residency - Avivo ArtWorks - Jes Reyes - 5 Hrs

I started my day at the ArtWorks studio by organizing various supply cabinets. This is becoming routine for me as I enter the studio. It is good to have everything accessible and ready to use. I will straighten stacks of paper, sort bins of paint, fill pitchers with water, organize the magazine racks, and every once in awhile, I will do some sweeping. Once these tasks are done, I feel like the studio is prepared and invites artist to work as they see fit. 

This week, while I clipped magazines for the collage bins, I decided to join Christi's comics class. I was inspired by an image that I clipped from a vintage film magazine. It depicted a bald man with a confused look on his face. He wore thin glasses and held an old pipe in his mouth. I thought the image could function as an interesting first scene in a comic, so I began to draw him in the first panel. I didn't have time to finish, but will continue working on it next week. 

Last week, One of the members and I started some matt-medium image transfers on sturdy illustration board. This week it was time to unveil our new images. We both discovered that the board was not ideal for image transfers because it would erode as we wet the surface. In order to see what has been transferred we had to rub the paper from our original image off with a damp rag. I am hoping to bring in some wood panel so that the members can try the transfers on a better surface.   

These are three examples of our image transfer before and after we removed the original paper. The orange and red image has be completely revealed while the image on the far right has only been partially revealed. The bottom left image has not yet been revealed.

This image has only been partially revealed. The black and white image has been transferred, while the sepia toned paper still remains.

After working on the image transfers, I attended a new workshop lead by Jes. This weeks topic was developing a stable portfolio. Jes discussed many ways to form an authentic artist statement. We spent a lot of time jotting down the fundamental aspects of our artwork, process, and professional practice. We also discussed mature ways to share our body of work with specific audiences such as jurors, employers, and other possible exhibition panels. Jes brought everyone up to date on the current methods of displaying portfolios including digital documentations. This workshop, like the last one, was extremely helpful. I will re-address our topics as I prepare for the merit competition and junior review this year. I am looking forward to attending more of Jes's workshops in the future. 

Overall I enjoyed another week in the studio. Each weak, I have been able to meet new artist and connect with them creatively. I can't wait to be back engaging with the members. 

Week 5- February 12th - 18th

Residency- Burnsville, Talking Suitcase- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

This week I felt less nervous working at the Ebenezer care center. I had already met many of the students last week, so I was able to engage more in the lesson. Susan and I started the day by getting our supplies grouped for each class. This week, we gave every one small boxes to create their scene within. Susan informed me that we would bring specific types of paper and fabric to each class, so that they could easily re-create their favorite place. 

Once the supplies were sorted, we went to our first class. Susan had to get a cart from the front desk so that we could get all the supplies to our first location. We went in and started setting up. Again, I worked more one on one with a woman on her project. I experienced something wonderful when working with this woman. I had suggested giving her yellow and orange paper to create her mango tree. She declined and I asked her what color the mangoes were. She said they were green because it was a sour mango tree. I found it that she was dedicated to re-creating her scene. She remembered what those mangoes looked like and how they tasted. A crucial part of this lesson is really asking as many questions as possible so that the participants can have full autonomy over their work. While some struggle with the tactile process involved in the Talking Suitcase project, they are still the sole owner of their story and and forms of recreating it. 

Before our second class, Susan and I re-organized our supplies and put the morning class boxes in storage. While sorting through paper I suggested that we make many bins that had all types of paper and fabric in them. There were so many bin designated to just a single type of material and I felt that it would be helpful to have many bins with a bunch of options in them that we could place around the tables. Susan said we should try it out so we did with our second class. This time we got a cart that will be designated to our workshop for the future. Since we have to move around to different locations in the center, it is really essential that we have a cart to transport our supplies. The new bins worked out well because the offered many different kinds of colors, textures, and patterns. They could also stay in one spot for a smaller section of people to use. We used this method of compiled materials for the next two classes.

I noticed that I was getting more comfortable having vocal conversations with each individual I worked with. There were some new faces in each group, but they were all very friendly and had interesting stories to tell. I also noticed that the people who join the workshop on a regular basis, are more engaged with the process of making. My plan for next week is to ask more questions about their stories and and how they remember them. I am excited to see who joins the workshop again, next week. 

Residency-Avivo ArtWorks-Jes Reyes-5 Hrs

This week at the ArtWorks studio, I got to participate in some different activities. The day started out as it usually does. I did some sweeping, tidied up the supply closets, and began clipping magazines in search of interesting subject matter to divide into bins. I worked on that until 12:30 and then had lunch with Christi. We talked about college, sharing our individual experiences. It's always nice to connect with Christi.

After eating, I went to a workshop, held by Jes, dealing with time management and common obstacles that make things harder. We also talked about potential solutions to those obstacle as a group. Jes lead the class using the Work of Art presentation on time management and business skills for artists. Together we went through the presentation, sharing our struggles and tips. Jes demonstrated different methods of planning out time which included the SMART Goals model, vital versus trivial tasks list, and the time log chart. I found some of these methods helpful and will be trying them out this semester. I was truly grateful to be invited to this workshop because it gave me a sense of belonging. I feel like I am really involved and a part of the empowering ArtWorks community. I will surely attend more workshops in the future. 

Once the workshop was over, we headed back to the studio to work on projects. I went back to my clipping briefly and then decided to try some photo transfers on a mat board. I was pleased to have two members join me for this activity. I demoed the application process and they made their our image transfers. This is exactly what I've been looking forward to. I am happy that some of the members were willing to try a new process and seemed engaged in my demo. hopefully more will join in next week. 

I don't have pictures of the results yet, but here are a couple from week four.             

The first image is a finished work by one of the members. They were inspired by a photo of a flock of birds on a cliff by the ocean. They worked diligently to get finish the drawing that day. I think the member chose some wonderful colors as they usually do. The second Image is a photo that the same member will use for the next drawing. I have a feeling it will be full of vivid colors and lively characteristics.  

The two collages on the right were completed by myself and Mindy; another volunteer at ArtWorks. I started the collaborative project by making a collage with specific paper. I cut and pasted each shape one at a time until the small square, surface was covered with paper. Mindy decided to make another geometric collage using the same set of paper materials. It was a fun mini project that we got to share with the members in the studio.  

Week 4 - February 5th-11th

Residency-Burnsville, Talking Suitcases- Susan Armington- 4 Hrs

Last Monday was my first day working alongside Susan Armington in Burnsville. Susan lead her workshop, Talking Suitcases, at the Ebenezer care center for aging adults. She has developed this project over much time and in many different settings dealing with a variety of age groups. I was really pleased be a part of her team after having done the project in my teaching artist class last semester. 

Most of our morning was dedicated to specific planing and preparation for the whole day. Susan had already completed the first sessions last week and had taken note of important accommodations. We had to group materials for three separate sites all within the larger center. Each site had a designated time and place where the worksop would be held. Susan demonstrated how imperative it is to organize materials before sessions begin. We spent some time organizing bins and bags with wood blocks, paper, scissors, glue guns, glue sticks, and markers. Each group would go to one site.

After we were ready to start, Susan and I went to the morning workshop at 10:30 am. We used a cart to take supplies to the room and set them up before the class began. Susan introduced herself and the project. She also introduced me and my teaching artist pursuit. She walked around and showed examples of her handmade objects as she described their central stories. As a group we all brainstormed our ideas and potential stories. She also showed them the objects that they made the previous week and asked if anyone remembered who they belonged to and what stories they represented.

The members got a chance to share what they thought they might like to illustrate with their own objects and then they had time to make. One task was to start with a platform this time. Last week, Susan had them work with freeform objects that stood on their own, but this week she prompted them to try and start with a sheet of card stock that related to their stories. She asked them to consider color and textures that reminded them of the setting or scene. Once every one picked a platform, they began to add other materials. I mostly observed how Susan lead the workshop and helped hot glue pieces together. I got a chance to work one on one with a member who told her experience as a young girl at a local rollerskating park. She mentioned that there was an organ player who always played music for the skaters.

Once everyone was close to being done, Susan announced that we'd be sharing the work with each other. Her first approach was to have people guess where and what the stories entailed. It was nice to experience stories from different time periods and to witness how engaged they were with one another. The group was supportive and friendly. Overall, there was a sense of nostalgia in the room. Many of the members were happy to share their stories. 

We had two more lessons that day, dealing with the same concepts. For the next two sessions, I tried to circulate the room more and get one on one time with each member. One of the biggest struggles was getting to and from each site with loaded carts. We managed to do it, but we are hoping to have more accessibility to carts next week. Another challenge that arose, was handling those who struggled to come up with ideas or felt uneasy about memory in general. Susan and the Ebenezer assistants did a good job motivating members. 

As I continue this work with Susan, I'd like to find ways to be more motivational and personal. I think I was somewhat nervous being present at the workshops this week, but I know I'll find way to better serve the artists and the project with Susan's guidance. She is a great mentor and I trust that she can help me develope more interpersonal skills. I have a feeling next week will be exciting as members continue to pursue their Talking Suitcases.   

Week 3 - January 29th - February 4th

Residency- Avivo ArtWorks- Jes Reyes- 4 Hrs

Last Thursday I went to the studio at noon. Once I arrived, Jes and I packed members work to be exhibited in a show. They needed to be protected during transportation, so we wrapped them with sturdy butcher paper. It was exciting to see finished work of members who I had recently met. I also encountered some new names and was hopeful to meet them in the future. After I was done, I was introduced to another volunteer at the ArtWorks studio who had just visited Greece. We spoke about her trip as well as her personal art practice. Later we sorted through the magazine racks, getting rid of unnecessary ones, and made room for the ones stacked on top of the racks. I learned that she too enjoyed the vintage magazines and we both agreed that they were the most enchanting of the bunch.

I spent most of the day reading written works by one of the familiar members who was thrilled to share their stories. I also got a chance to read some of Christi's graphic novel that is soon to be published. Christi works at the ArtWorks studio as the Peer Support Specialist. Every Thursday she holds a casual comics class open to members. I was unable to partake this time, but am excited to join them next Thursday. 

Later in the day, Christi and I worked on some collages. All the members in the studio were busy working on personal projects. As usual, I went to them to see what they were working on. If asked about colors or concepts, I did my best to answer in response to my own experience as a painter. I am starting to gather some common interests and conversations in regards to art that go on in the studio. Each day at ArtWorks has further informed me how I might hold my lesson in the future. I am becoming eager to lead a lesson, but am also consciously readjusting  the methods I should use. I think so far, the greatest experience I've encountered is discovering what drives these artist to push through obstacles and create profound work.     

Week 2 - January 22-28

Residency-AVIVO ArtWorks-Jes Reyes-5 Hrs

Yesterday I completed my second day at Avivo ArtWorks. I have been walking over to the site from my house, which is about a twenty minute walk. So far, I find that this early expedition gets my blood flowing and helps me re-focus my thoughts. By the time I reach the front steps, I am eager and mentally prepared to start my day.

On this weeks Agenda, my first task was to organize magazines racks filled with an exuberant variety of titles. I was especially excited to see so many vintage articles. After I finished sorting, I was able to sit down and cut images out to be placed in separate bins. Jes informed me that I could cut out whatever I fancied as long as it was't excessively inappropriate, as are many cosmopolitan articles and photographs. Having developed a new fondness for collage, I was certainly entertained by the task. My main goal was to separate images into many larger categories such as color, text, landscapes, people/animals, texture/patterns, and objects.  

I started this collage during open studio hours, hoping to motivate members to play with collage concepts.

Throughout the day I periodically added to the bins when it was't too busy in the studio. After I was done with my first round of clippings, Jes invited me to lead a mini collage demo, if members had an interest in working with the cut-outs. She generously set up a small work station with blank paper, scissors, tape, and glue. She also allowed me to work with the images I had cut out earlier. I did get to work with one member on an experimental collage, in which they incorporated drawing on-top of images. We both worked on our own pieces while offering insight. It was a new experience, but was also very helpful considering that I would like to lead more collage centered workshops in the future.    

I revisited many of the members I had met last week. I enjoyed seeing familiar faces and continuing a conversation about their practice. I tried to be helpful when they had questions or concerns regarding colors and compositions. I am starting to feel that my advise is wanted, but am also learning a great deal from their methods as well. Jes was even working on a piece while I was there. It was a fascinating second day, filled with unexpected surprises. 

Residency-Burnsville-Susan Armington- 1 Hr

After my day at Avivo ArtWorks, I headed to the MIA to meet with Susan to discuss our future plans for the Talking Suitcase project. We discussed transportation, scheduling, and teaching artist philosophies. The way she described her experience over many years of teaching was enlightening. I loved when she spoke about what she had discovered was at the core of these talking suitcases; the individual's story. We also spoke about accommodations that would vary from each site. She decided it would be best for her to start the first day alone, so that she could get a feel for the different spaces and facilities. I will hopefully begin in the next couple of weeks.   

 

 

Week 1 - January 15-21

Residency-AVIVO ArtWorks-Jes Reyes-5 Hrs

Last Thursday I began my residency at the AVIVO ArtWorks studio. The first task at hand was to clean up the communal workstations, so I wiped down a few tables and chairs. Afterwards, I decided to do a little sweeping. It was nice to start the day with some light cleaning and familiarize myself with the space. Once I was finished, Jes was ready to discuss what the rest of the day would look like. We went over confidentiality rules, class schedules, distributing supplies, and overall goals regarding our work with members in the studio. I was really pleased when Jes spoke about an initiative to motivate and advocate confidence in member's ability to make art. Jes explained the importance in valuing members potential as professional artist, which really resonates with my own vision as a teaching artist. Right away, I knew it was going to be a good day.

After our talk, I was introduced to a couple members during an open comics class. I was invited to draw with them, which actually made me sort of nervous. I had no idea what I should draw, but shortly decided I'd just draw my own hands. At the beginning, I was pretty quiet. I had a small fear that joining their conversation would be too invasive, so I waited for an appropriate moment to ask a question. They answered with excitement and continued to engage in conversations with me throughout the day. At that point my fear was lifted and introductions came at ease.

During open studio hours, I introduced myself and devoted one on one time with as many members as I could. It was incredible to meet so many passionate artists with such an impeccable drive to create. They all demonstrated an impressive range of skills and displayed an eagerness to grow through their work. I'm thrilled to be welcomed in such a strong and connected art community. To top it all off, I saw so many members helping one another with projects; offering their own personal supplies and tips. It was refreshing to witness that kind of support especially considering the rigorously competitive nature of other art communities. Overall, It was an amazing experience and I can't wait to be back next Thursday.           

Pre-Start Practicum

Residency-AVIVO ArtWorks-Jes Reyes-1 hr

Residency-Burnsville-Susan Armington- 0 hrs

I met with Courtney and Jes on the 4th of January to complete my first orientation. My background check has been processed so I am ready to begin my work at AVIVO. I will be starting this Thursday at 11am. Jess has asked me to jot down some reason for working at AVIVO and what I'd like to do while participating in this residency. I am eager to meet the members at ArtWorks and offer feedback/mentorship during studio hours. I would like to propose a collage project or workshop for members. I am specifically interested in working in fields that address mental illness such as AVIVO because I believe I can learn a lot about arts integration in these areas. 

I have not meet with Susan yet, but we plan to see each other on the 25th of this month. I am excited to shadow her work with aging adults and am happy to revisit her series of talking suitcases. I hope to gain more experience working with older adults so that I can widen my understanding of a variety of teaching styles.