I believe it's important to find sources for continued education as an artist.  Having the ability to learn from other artists not only in the creative arena but in the self-promotion arena is crucial.  I attended an artist talk by Katie Caron at the O'Sullivan Gallery on the campus of Regis University.  Katie is in a two person show, and this was her opportunity to share her perspective.  One of the interesting things about the artist talks at the O'Sullivan Gallery is that the students are required to attend if they are taking certain studio or art appreciation classes, the faculty also shows up so there is usually a built in audience so you don't have to worry about speaking to a group of two passers-by.

I've seen Katie's work in various exhibitions in the Metro Area.  She is ever evolving and that's truly one of the things that makes her an artist to follow...there is always a new twist or expansion on a concept she has been experimenting with in the studio. 

Much of Katie's work is inspired by nature.  Her use of a powerpoint presentation truly punctuated the point.  She would show photographs of her connection to nature and then we would see what emerged from her nature connection.  She truly is pushing the limits with design, in a good way.  She's not only a talented artist but she has the consciousness that's necessary to figure out how to ship and install the work.  At times her lessons are learned the hard way as when she created a piece that was too big for the kiln, but lessons learned are invaluable.

My two favorite pieces in the show were "Mullen I" and "Mullen II".  They were sculptures with a steel base with a presence that was proud and strong.  The time that it took to create was long and the process seemed at times to be long and arduous but the outcome is amazing. 

Forever the student...
Greg