Evolving Art Path
A teaching demo at White Bear Square that turned out worthy of framing.
I did a thing.... or made a decision. A hard one but I hope a right one.
Those who know me know that do a lot of things....all at the same time ... and often ricochet from one event to the next. It gets out of hand at times and something has to give.
I have decided to take a one year sabbatical from teaching once a week. I have done this for about the last 6-7 years. I love teaching and it has paid a lot of studio rent. Over time the centers I teach at were convenient but with job changes have become quite a haul. Most importantly this time away is being felt by my family at a time before our son becomes a teenager and still wants to be with us. I am not doing my own art work. My vacation hours are zapped for leaving early so I can squeeze a quick meal before the class starts. I haven’t been in my studio to do any work in two months. Also commissions are quickly out pacing my teaching salary in paying for this expensive endeavor.
A recent class at Railroad Park.
So in order to make more space for myself And honor my families increasing request I am sad but also excited to taking the year off. Also be able to plan a summer vacation without cancelling a ton things. Etc etc . When I do start up I will likely look for shorter duration workshops and local opportunities. It would be great to get to know my own NE Minneapolis Arts district and people. Maybe even teach out of my own studio is Solar Arts……but there I go again…..more time for that in the future.
A recently accepted piece into the North Star Water Media juried show. We will see how it does.
I am also going to start focusing on juried watercolor shows locally and nationally. I am seeing a path there that looks fun and within my wheel house.
I had a most wonderful last class for the year at White Bear Center for the Arts where I shared this. Big support and encouragement and some where students who have taken my class for years.
It sucks to let the centers know about my decision. I put it off for a long time because I hate saying no and potentially letting people down. Although at the end of the day, I am the only one who knows how much I can take on when and what to put the brakes on. I do so very much appreciate the people and the support. My art path is a long game and different parts will ebb and flow. I just wish there were more than 24 hours in a day.
James Nutt