Artists Keeping Christmas

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed - Artist in Residence

Do Elves lose their magic if a child touches them?

Recently, there was a crisis on the third floor. A treasured glass case had broken that contained a magical Elf. The two children serving as the Elf’s caretakers were absolutely heartbroken and their mother was beside herself as she looked for someone to help her clean up the mess, while trying to console the children.

Tapped for help, three of us Artists-in-Residence at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts (Annapolis) sprang into action: one ran to inform the custodial staff, another ran to get a broom and dust pan, and I focused on comforting the children. Somehow, all three of us played a key role in “saving Christmas” for one family. At least, we hope we did our part in keeping the magic alive and well this Christmas!

The small boy who might have been the last to touch the Elf was rambling on and on. Looking me in the eyes, he confessed that he had dropped their Elf when putting the Elf’s glass case back in their backpack. As he told his sad tale, I praised him for his honesty and thanked him for telling us how things had unfolded. I assured him and his sister that everyone breaks things. It was a fact of life and accidents just happen..., and I told him should not feel as upset because Elf was intact. Meanwhile, we grownups were taking care of things like the cleanup as best as possible.

The whole time he spoke, I was aware of the other child, the boy's older sister. The little girl, preparing for dance class and dressed in a light pink tutu, was sobbing her little heart out. It brought tears to my eyes… I realized I was now sitting on the floor in front of them. As I sat  and talked with the two children, I assured them that their Elf was still magical. "Elves do not lose their magic," I assured them. In fact, I wondered aloud to them: “Perhaps your Elf was actually behind or involved in the 'broken case story' because he maybe wanted a change of scenery... Maybe he had grown tired of his glass case…?" Could they begin to consider a new home for him, I asked them?

The children began to calm down as I continued to talk about possibilities. Wiping tears away as their eyes began to sparkle with hope, they listened intently…wanting to believe. I reassured them that especially at this time of year an Elf's magic is stronger than at any other time of year! Not only that, but other Elves work behind the scenes to make sure each and every Elf is OK and able to make their Elfin magic during the special holiday season of lights, miracles, and magic.

As the children and their Mom left the Hall, comforted and looking forward to Christmas. I told them they should be on the lookout for a new perfect home for Elf (I never learned his name) and they should work together with their Elf to make sure a perfect home was chosen.

Especially at this time of year, no one should feel heartbroken or alone. Everyone needs to believe in magic! I know I do. Magic and hope are entwined – each, a gift! Holding onto both, regardless of our age is our charge.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! May your own season be magical in ways most special to you.

                                  Yours in Art,

                                         Elaine

Come visit me sometime in Studio 310B, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts (801 Chase St., Annapolis) and discover the magic in Art! 

Featured Artist & Solo Shows: From Artist to Art to Art Shows - Part Three

From Artist to Art to Art Shows

Bringing it All Together...

Elaine Weiner-Reed: "Masks and Mirrors - Explorations of Identity" Solo Exhibition 2018 - Chaney Gallery, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts

In many professional artists’ careers, moving to the next stage involves competing for Featured Artist and Solo Artist Shows. In this third installment of her article “From Art to Art Shows,” Elaine Weiner-Reed provides information and personal experiences to assist artists in determining when and how to decide for themselves their readiness to shift gears and move on to the next level from their already-established history of participating in small- and large-group art shows, as well as juried shows at local, regional, national, and international levels.

A Golden Rule: Each Art journey begins and ends with art. 

Good art.

Elaine Weiner-Reed: Gallery Talk, Opening Night - "Masks and Mirrors - Explorations of Identity" Solo Exhibition 2018 - Chaney Gallery, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts

Exploring Featured Artist & Solo Artist Exhibitions

Before continuing, I invite you to review the ideas and recommendations I shared in Part One and Part Two of my “From Art to Art Shows” article. I will build on what I have said, adding to previous information, including new ideas and sharing first-hand experiences.

Learn More ...


             Be sure to always create art that is true to yourself and your voice.
Best wishes always!

                                   Yours in Art,
                                             Elaine Weiner-Reed

https://liveanartfullife.com/20-public-articles/227-from-artist-to-art-to-art-shows-part-three

Part Two: Tips & Landmines - From Artist to Art to Art Shows

From Artist to Art to Art Shows

The Journey Continues

This is Part Two of a three-part series on showing your artwork by Elaine Weiner-Reed. 

Be sure to read Part One here

 

Myslenice Cultural Center (Poland 2014): Elaine Weiner-Reed - Stone Sculpture "Love" and Paintings (Four, long wall; left)

ART Speaks for Itself.  Your Art Speaks for You.

We need to always keep in mind is that an art show is and should always be about the ART. First impressions are lasting impressions…, and sometimes, they are all that someone has of you and your art. What do you want them to see and know about you? Are you consistent and is your style crystalizing? or always chasing after some new technique or, as I call it ‘the next shiny thing’?

Remember: Continually work, work, and keep working – whether it is painting or another creative discipline. It is important to be consistent and deepen your skills and personal vision throughout your lifetime. Next: Be honest with yourself. This is for and about you. What other people think of your work should never be the bar against which you gauge your talent or your goals. We each have to maintain our own bar of excellence, comparing this year’s body of work with the last – armed with a discerning and critical eye to dissecting our strengths and weaknesses, pushing ourselves to do what we love to the best of our abilities.

New Century Artists Gallery - Chelsea, NYC: Elaine Weiner-Reed, Featured Artist - "Raw Notes Soliloquy" (Mixed Media on Canvas, 2013)

So - Why Do Artists Participate in Art Shows?

The reasons why artists decide to participate in or show their work in a public venue are as diverse and varied as the artists themselves... Read More. I am sharing my tips and experiences in parts so they can be considered as your time permits.

          Best wishes in your Artistic Journey - wherever it takes you!

                                   Yours in Art,
                                         Elaine Weiner-Reed




https://liveanartfullife.com/20-public-articles/221-from-artist-to-art-to-art-shows-part-two

Tips to Consider: From Artist to Art Shows - Part One

Timing It Right

 
Remember: It is all about the art.

In this first of three articles about entering art shows and having solo shows, I provide information and personal experiences to help artists consider some new realities, and decide for themselves if and when they are ready to show their work in art shows and group exhibitions. 

I want artist’s decisions to work in their best interests in support of a successful career. Along the way, I also hope artists remain true to themselves and their unique artistic path and vision. I am the first to admit that although I  have learned a lot in my 30-plus years of participating in art shows, I probably still have much to learn. 

By providing artists with insights from my own experiences, I hope that they  (and YOU) will be in a good position to always consider what is best for them and keep sight of what they want to do or want NOT to do. To that end, I also provide some “reality check” questions and personal anecdotes I hope will assist each artist with their own very personal decision-making process.

   To find out more, read more!


https://liveanartfullife.com/20-public-articles/217-from-artist-to-art-to-art-shows-part-one

Elaine Weiner-Reed - Montpellier Art Fair (circa 1994)

Artist | Sculptor | Writer

Elaine Weiner-Reed

A Solo Exhibition

 

Masks and Mirrors - Explorations of Identity

 

OPENING NIGHT & GALLERY TALK  

Our Legacy is Being Written As We Speak...

Sculpture: Many Faces

      For those who attended, or those who missed the show at Chaney Gallery (May-July 2018), this video walk through EWR's Gallery (view the slideshow, individual artwork frames, and listen to the Artist's reflections) will help recapture it for you. Enjoy your own private tour!

     The Opening Night Video was created to capture and share Elaine Weiner-Reed's message that honors the human spirit in all its fortitude and resiliency. This and other inspiring videos can be found here, on the Artist's YouTube Channel.

   Ways to Connect With Elaine  Weiner-Reed

elaineweinerart@gmail.com

http://twitter.com/ElaineWeinerArt

http://www.facebook.com/WeinerReed/

http://www.elaineweinerreed.com

http://instagram.com/ewrartist/

http://www.pinterest.com/weinerart/

http://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-weiner-reed-ewr-36519623/

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCCOWgiFVseJGV0DZja5V-w

© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR)
      All images and content remain the property of the Artist. 

      No reproductions or prints are authorized. 

      All rights reserved.

   Gallery paintings are available for purchase.  Contact the Artist for prices. 

Ask about about our installment plan.  Credit cards accepted.

An Exploration of Identity: Your Self-Guided Gallery Tour Companion Guide

ELAINE WEINER-REED

MASKS AND MIRRORS - AN EXPLORATION OF IDENTITY

A Chaney Gallery Solo Exhibition 

(May – July 2018)

Self-Guided Gallery Tour Companion Guide

Companion Audio Reflections: https://www.elaineweinerreed.com

       Life is messy, unfinished, and beautiful.  

This exhibition is experiential, personal, introspective, and multi-dimensional. 

It celebrates life, honoring the human spirit.

     This exhibition is a virtual tour through life. Although the dialogue might have begun in my studio, I hope you will join in. The journey from one painting to the next is a progression through space and time. The paintings provide glimpses into life-changing stages and challenging times when we choose our attitude, shoulder a new way to keep going, or choose a new path, changing our destiny. Our world and identity are colored by experiences, feelings, thoughts, and perceptions.

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition (First Wall)
© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     Entering the gallery, the first section or wall of the show, which I refer to as “Looking Inward,” is organized from the perspective of our earlier years, when most of the information is processed from the perspective of how it impacts or matters to us (the ME years). Our world is contained or limited by many factors, and we are mainly doing what others tell us to do do…and trying to figure out what WE want, instead.

     From there or before you even start your gallery tour, I invite you to pause and watch my YouTube video “Masks and Mirrors: Beyond Reality.”  This short video provides a quick overview of elements to consider as reference points, giving insights into why “Masks and Mirrors” has became the overarching theme for my ongoing body of work, and why I am fascinated with the evolution of one's identity and all that it involves. 

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition (Second Wall)
"Resurrection" (Sculpture)   © 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     As you finish watching the video and compare the first wall with this one, you will notice that this second, longer wall, is more color-rich, with lots of reds and bolder colors. Many things are going on in the paintings, and a lot of emotion is conveyed, along with mystery portrayed in scenes, people, or titles. There is a lot of material, stories within stories... I refer to this wall as the “Inside/Outside” wall, meaning inside our heads, homes, and hearts…and within ourselves. And on the flip side, this phase might also takes us outside of ourselves, our cultures, our homes, and our comfort zones. You might want to think of it as an extended or multi-faceted “leaving the nest” phase, where we venture outward, expanding social circles, language, experiences, knowledge, and impressions. In this phase, we are pushing our boundaries ever wider, opening our minds and our world. Perhaps we are reinventing ourselves, committing to relationships, traveling, defining our lives…It could last for decades.

     Present with us in the room, are three sculptures, titled: “Many Faces,” “Awakening,” and “Resurrection.” As you slowly walk around and between them, see what you can discover and how they relate to the painted artwork. 

     Consider this: Life is greater than the sum of its parts and so are we. There are mysteries to explore and masks to find. Examine the many facets, angles, shadows, and parts and relate it to your own journey. At times, we are vulnerable, unmasked, and our very undercarriage is exposed. But we walk on. We cast shadows, leave traces… We rise, tired, and sometimes broken, and by sheer will, right ourselves, even as it feels like our legs are made of stone and our heart is broken or missing… At such times, only our spirit keeps us among the living. We are survivors, we are the Phoenix Rising. These sculptures are memorials to all the everyday heroes I have known, those whom I call friend or colleague or neighbor, and those I only pass on the road or on the runway of life.

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition (Alcove, Social Room)
© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     Into the alcove, the smaller room, we enter what I think of as the “Social Room.” Some Call it Chemistry… In the scenarios, there are groups of people, yet the individuals remain unique, mysteries in a dynamic scene we try to unravel. Who are they? Why are they there? What is the gathering about? What happened before and after the scene captured in the paintings? Did someone just vacate the chairs or is someone expected any moment? What is the mood or energy captured in the rooms? Do you think you would join any of the get-togethers? How will the scene play out? What is the beginning? What is the ending? You tell me…* 

   And then, on the inside archway wall: The Identity Station or Wall of Mirrors. Gazing back-and-forth from the painted scenes to the mirrors, ask yourself: What – or who –  do you see? Do you see yourself? Are you now within the scenes, as well? They are reflected with you in the mirrors… What is real? How would you pretend to have a role in those four "painted interiors" behind and around you? How is our identity changed or altered over time and throughout a lifetime – on the inside and outside? How much control do we have? Do we “own” who we are? How much can we influence who we become?

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition (Identity Station Wall, Social Room)
© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     As we re-enter the larger room, turn left. On a wall by itself, the painting “BraveHeart” joins the sculptures in paying tribute to courage and surviving what comes our way. Not perfect, not always fully formed, but alive and moving forward…

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition ("BraveHeart")
© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     Finally, the last wall as we head back toward the entry door…  I refer to this wall as the “Legacy” or “so what” wall. We are one person, and throughout our lifetime, we bump up against others, much as a pinball – sometimes on purpose, and sometimes at random. We search for our own brand of meaning and style and purpose. Our self-awareness expands as we reflect on our actions and consequences or what we do or don’t do. Who influenced us and who do we influence? Time is relative… Everything and everyone is relative, connected. Our world is vast, yet smaller every day. What positive difference or contribution have we made? What footprint remains after we exit?

 

Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR) - Masks and Mirrors - An Exploration of Identity Exhibition (Final, Legacy Wall)
© 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed

     From our perceptions of reality to our memories… Time is relative. We are a part of history. We remember, we relate, we teach, and we invent. From Ashes to Ashes…and dust to dust, our legacy determined and written in the paths we have taken, lives we have touched, hands we have held. In the Mirror, unmasked in the end is our legacy – reflected, fragile, temporal – and hopefully beautiful.

Thank you for coming and participating. Our legacies are connected.

*You can also find the video on my YouTube Channel and watch it on your smart device.

 

STAY CONNECTED

http://twitter.com/ElaineWeinerArt
http://www.facebook.com/WeinerReed/
http://www.elaineweinerreed.com
http://instagram.com/ewrartist/
http://www.pinterest.com/weinerart/
http://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-weiner-reed-ewr-36519623/
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCCOWgiFVseJGV0DZja5V-w
elaineweinerart@gmail.com

 © 2018 Elaine Weiner-Reed (EWR)
      All images and content remain the property of the Artist. No reproductions or prints are authorized. All rights reserved.