journey (n.) —1. a traveling from one place to another, usually taking a rather long time. 2. passage or progress from one stage to another.
Whether physical, mental or spiritual, we tend to describe our journeys in the state of “during”—what we did or felt while we went through the actual experience. But what about the “before” and “after?” There must be some sort of preparation and digestion of events that goes into the bookends of our journey.
Over the last year, that has been my mindset as I prepared for, went on, and returned from my artist’s residency in Morocco. Even before I left for the cobbled streets of Tetouan, Morocco started to inspire me—weaving its bold colors and patterns into my work. It was on my mind… and in my spirit.
During my residency, I journeyed through two major projects. The first was a Japanese stab binding Artist Book that intricately combined Gelli prints and mixed media. As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, my second project involved creating leather tote bags with a local leather smith.
In the year since my return, I’ve been hard at play creating pieces inspired by all of the amazing connections that I made in Morocco. Some with fellow artists. Some with local artisans. And some with dear Moroccans. All these relationships played a pivotal role in my journey and my growth as an artist. The mixed media pieces and paintings that came out of this process are as diverse as the people who inspired them, and represent my “After.”
Now that this journey is finally complete, I would like to invite you to join me in celebration of the culmination of this exciting time at my exhibit “Before, During & After” at First Street Gallery & Custom Framing (820 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024—right next to Art Lounge!). My pieces will be on display from March 24-May 5, 2017, so be sure to check it out.
This show, which opens March 24, 2017 from 6-8 pm, will feature pieces that I created in all stages of this personal journey. I’m ecstatic to share with you all the effects that this period had on me artistically and personally… It’s only just recently that I’ve been able to articulate it.
As I transition from this journey, I prepare myself for the next… and I can’t wait to see what exciting growth and changes it brings!
“Before, During & After”
by Nancy Walter
First Street Gallery & Custom Framing
820 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Opening Reception: March 3, 2017, 6-8 pm
March 24-May 5, 2017
