Lately I have been on the hunt for new exhibitions to showcase my work, and I love when I find ones locally. I recently came across one, and it was a special call for work that celebrated a well known spot in Columbus, Goodale Park.
If live in central Ohio, then you most likely know Goodale Park. It is a beautiful chunk of nature in between the busy freeway and one of the the most popular downtown areas, the Short North. The exhibition call wanted artist to focus on the park and pay tribute to it's scenic environment. Which immediately resonated with me!
I have known for years that I wanted to create a piece that had a pond and loads of lily pads in it. Maybe it's due to my obsession with Monet, which you probably all know by now. :)
So, I started the painting in my studio and in about a week, Years to Bloom was complete! If you aren't familiar with exhibition applications (that feel more like job applications sometimes), it is common to share the inspiration of the work in your own artist statement. And I thought for this blog post it would be best to share that statement that I wrote with you all. It was freshly written after I completed the work, and I think it really captures how I felt when making the piece.
Years to Bloom Artist Statement
"Years to Bloom is a painting that not only represents the serene beauty of Goodale Park and its picturesque pond but also serves as a self-reflection on the years of growth in my art career and my personal journey. Downtown Columbus has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up in the countryside, my visits to the city were filled with a unique sense of life and energy. Goodale Park, in particular, stands out in my memories, as it was a landmark I frequently passed on my way back home, both as a child and now as an adult living in Grove City.
This painting is a tribute to the park's enduring beauty and growth, mirroring my own evolution as an artist. It captures the delicate balance of nature's tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, symbolizing the calm and reflection found within the chaos of urban life. Years to Bloom is a reminder of the passage of time, the changes we've witnessed, and the personal growth we've achieved along the way."
Years to Bloom will be exhibited at the Artists in Bloom: The Art of Goodale Park show from September 8th - 27th at the First Commonwealth Bank at 647 N. High St in the Short North. She will be for sale at the show!
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