just some deep thoughts from jack handy, in concerns with the dangers of the arts and art world. mainly, the lack of danger and sense of excitement. all too often lately, through my various travels, the artists i have met scare me in that i have a nearly jaw breaking yawn by hanging out with them. they seem like bean counters, dress like accountants, or business people, have become boring administrators and lost all sense of danger, enthusiasm, or excitement.
more often than not, i am the lone wild man, the lone wolf, or coyote, seeking adventures in new cities. they would rather go antiquing while i am drawn to danger, to death, to adventure and seek the thrills of discovering a new city or new places in an old city. while they look as though they would fold over in a windstorm because of the starch in their collars, i hoist the skull and bones and call out to others seeking adventure.
after several gatherings i've been to over the years, i've finally met my match, and it was on the other side of the country, at a symposium of national level artists, arts administrators, researchers, curators, educators and the like. it was mainly native or first nations, and the devil may care attitude was prevalent and refreshing. it felt so good to be surrounded by others cut from the same cloth of a pirate flag and we had charged dialogue, crazy adventures, fearsome hangovers, and amazing collaborations came about. the spirit of creativity guided us, and as a colleague suggested, "we all come from very solitary practices, so when we get together like this, of course it is going to get a little out of hand, it has to!"
i couldn't agree more.
other artists ask me how i got to where i am today in a very short period of time. (20 years!) and i have no definitive answer other than be bold. create the art that inspires you. don't care what others say. don't listen to them. don't be molded. be fearless. take chances. and be open to opportunities. this year i've had 5 exhibitions, 5 publications, organized a music festival and curated 2 exhibitions, as well as done countless workshops and an artist residency.
but this is what i wanted, and i sacrificed everything to get here. so really, there is no excuses to not accomplish anything.
until next time lovers,
stay dangerous
cb.
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