A search for community

As an artist working alone in my studio, being part of a larger art community is essential. I have been actively involved as a member of several cooperative art galleries, and supported other artists by attending openings, offering resources, trading and buying art. However, when I first learned about the International Encaustic Conference in 2011, I had never been away for multiple days solely for my art practice.

Created by Joanne Mattera (read about its history and founder HERE) in 2007, and now run by Cherie Mittenthal, Executive Artistic director of Truro Center for the Arts, it is a three day annual event focusing on the medium of encaustic and professional development. Packed with demonstrations, talks, a keynote speaker, postcard fundraiser for future attendees, vendor room (glorious), juried exhibition and ample time for creating and forging connections with fellow attendees, it is an embarrassment of riches.

A new home

When I first attended the conference, it was in its fifth year and for the first time held in Provincetown, Massachusetts (now its permanent home). I was anxious and uncertain, knowing few people and unsure what to expect. In fact, a world opened to me. I met people from across the country who became close friends. Learned of resources, techniques and opportunities. Reveled in the beautiful setting, deep and expansive conversations during walks into town, over meals, in hallways, and gathered in groups in the lounge. Ideas percolated, possibilities sizzled and began to take form, cooperative endeavors were explored, understanding was deepened. To be immersed in my art practice was heaven. I realized that without the constant interruption of family responsibility, errands, and phone calls it was easier to engage more deeply with my practice. I was hooked.

I attended the conference every year after, save for one, until 2020 - when due to COVID and a scheduling conflict - I was unable to return until this year. I sorely missed the camaraderie, laughter, ideas and information exchange, the setting and the people. After the long drive, climbing out of my car, I was hit with the scent of sea air, the cries of gulls, and a myriad sensory memories coursed through me. It was a coming home.

Sensory memories

The talk I presented was Thinking Through Space, in which I introduced inspirational artists, highlighting the ways in which they employ space (also scent, sound, light etc.) in the presentation of their art. It requires a great deal of time and effort to find and research the artists and create a compelling power point. Yet it allows me to do a deep dive on my chosen subject and find artists I otherwise might not have known. I am inspired by the inventiveness, problem solving, and stubborn determination these artists employ to mine every possibility in the expression of their work. As a result, it also encourages me to push past self-created boundaries; propels me to consider the same elements as I envision how my work will live in the world once outside my studio.

Experiencing the energy, intensity, and power generated when artists are together, while attending that first conference, compelled me to find more ways to participate in the art community. I began to apply to and attend artist residencies, went to Italy for a fabulous art trip and residency (run by The Crit Lab), attended week-long art workshops and have been very involved in a professional art critique group (The Crit Lab) where critical feedback, conversation, support and community continue to push my work forward. The power of invested art communities lifts, supports and energizes me and I am grateful for them!

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