Happy New Year: A Reflection on Art and Connection

I’ve been spending time thinking about my next blog. I don’t want to feel forced to post just to keep up with a schedule. I want to write when there’s actually something to say.

The Artist Behind the Work

Lately, I’ve been wondering if people even want to know about the artist behind the work anymore. I see comments and posts everywhere: “I could do that.” “I’m so annoyed with contemporary art.” “If I see one more story about the artist behind the work, I’m going to scream.” I find myself caught between understanding that fatigue and still needing Kezleigh to express.

Are we all too full to receive artwork and the stories that come with it?

Not to mention the Covid PTSD no one seems ready to talk about yet. That one really got repressed. Add in the constant sense of impending doom, the feeling that we’re all waiting for the shoe to drop, and it makes you wonder: Is one more artist with a background in sadness and resilience really going to cut through all the noise of the internet?

The Current Artistic Climate

I recently talked with another artist (an actor) about the current artistic climate. We discussed how hard it is right now. It has become increasingly difficult to maintain a steady income. The arts are often the first thing to go. Yet, historically, when the world is in chaos, art seems to flourish.

So how do artists shine through this murk?

My Vision for Kezleigh

I’ve pondered this question in my own head more times than I can count. I’ve asked myself whether Kezleigh will ever lift off to where I want her to be. I see the buzz, the articles, the photos, the recognition. I envision travel to other countries for solo shows. Gallery representation in various places, including this one.

Yes, I see the money. But more than that, I see her being comfortable. I see her waking up, doing yoga, having tea, managing her business, and running her own print shop (printing has been hell lately, but that’s another story). I see her shoulders relaxed. Migraines and lower back pain are managed. I see walks in the forest, gathering inspiration. I see her visiting her family more often. A manageable life. A comfortable one.

Acceptance and Aspiration

I’ve also asked myself, if Kezleigh stayed exactly where she is right now, would I be okay with that? I imagine a therapist would tell me to come to terms with how things are, and that if she exceeds expectations, then great.

But in my heart of hearts, I’m not okay with it.

I need people to see Kezleigh because the work isn’t meant to stay contained within me. It’s not about being looked at for the sake of it, but about letting what I’ve already carried move outward, into other spaces, other lives. Being seen allows the work to do what it’s meant to do, and it allows me to live in a way that can actually support making it.

A New Year’s Resolution

So my New Year’s resolution is this: to shine through the murk and be seen. I want to embrace the journey ahead, to share my art and my story with the world.

As I step into this new year, I invite you to join me on this path. Let’s explore the depths of creativity together. Let’s celebrate the beauty in our struggles and the strength in our resilience.

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Also, I got a new kitty named Lune.

Please like this post if you've read this blog and enjoyed it. Let me know your New Year’s resolution in the comments; I'm curious.