I often tell clients to stay with one style long enough to become a master at it.  Don't jump from style to style because you want to play.   Creating a sustainable art business requires that you stay with something long enough to establish a following.  A group of collectors who like the work and are willing to buy it.  A group of collectors who want to see more of what's coming down the pike.

One artist who I believe personifies mastery is Gayla Lemke.  Gayla is a ceramic artist who never disappoints.  Her show at Edge, "The Audacity of Hope Stones" is so appropriate for the political year we're having.  The work is thoughtful, provocative and cutting edge.  I think that this body of work is obviously timely, but it gives voice to what many Americans are thinking and therefore can related wholeheartedly to the exhibition.

My favorite piece was "We the People".  It is uplit and has a red interior giving an added twist to the piece.  The stones with quotes will keep you intrigued for a long time.  Gayla captured the thoughts from noted people in American history.  The quotes on the stones really get you to think.

I admire Gayla for her path to mastery.  I did a number of posts in November about ceramic artist Richard Notkin.  Gayla shares a lot of qualities with Notkin.   She stays with things long enough to become masterful not only at the idea but the execution.  Her work is cohesive and definitely makes a statement.  Her style is identifiable, that's a good thing.  She's a Denver treasure and I hope the rest of the country gets to experience her brilliance.

In awe...
Greg

coaching artists to create successful and sustainable art businesses