Like any other profession, the artist can suffer from burnout.
- I’ve been working hard for 18 months in a self-directed residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity since July 2016 where I’ve been working on a number of large scales paintings which address racism and nationalism in a cross-cultural context in our country. I’ve mounted a solo show in the fall of 2017 at Gibson Fine Art in Calgary and a two-person public exhibition of new works (Anamnesis at the Penticton Art Gallery in BC). Additionally I’ve had a major work (Undercurrents) feature in a public exhibition, ‘Romancing The Canoe’ at The Glenbow Museum in Calgary and at the Banff Centre for the Truth and Reconciliation Summit.
Phew.
That’s enough for most folks to scream and run for the hills. At this point in my career, I’m wise enough to know when it’s tome to cease and desist- to take some time away from the easel and from tackling such difficult subjects as racism in all its ugly forms; Indigenous relationships and equity; the damaging generational effects of residential school; Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and issues surrounding the Truth and Reconciliation findings.
It’s been exhausting and now it’s time for a rest and regroup. Thanks for sticking with me. How do you recharge after an intensive experience?
