We had an enthusiastic gathering at TASI’s annual meeting Sept. 11. It gave us a chance to introduce some of the people who continue to make The Studio’s mission possible.
I was happy to see familiar participants and thrilled to meet new visitors coming to see what The Studio can offer them and what they can do for The Studio. TASI has always been an open and inclusive organization. We serve a broad spectrum of citizens in Southeast Texas, especially the young members of this region.
The Art Studio has nurtured the young people in this community for 36 years. Art shows, music events, school visits, summer arts and volunteer days are among the ways we provide a place for young artists to develop their skills, grow and carry on a rich tradition of being untraditional.
An organization that does not have a vision for the future is doomed to not have a future. Without a plan for the future it would be difficult to see how to remain relevant in an ever-changing world.
The web is a rich resource as far as the visual arts are concerned. More people can see your work from any place on the planet. It is a big plus for exposure and possibly sales, or just sharing your work. That being said, I feel we are missing something if the canvas transforms into a computer screen. Looking at a product online is no guarantee of what you may receive.
In the same vein, art requires view of the work and the ability to read the textures and nuanced lines and use of the brush. Although putting a show online could be financially more feasible and viewers can see the work, we are missing the substance of the experience. What’s missing is the community interaction, the human contact, the chance for open discussion, and the chance to muse over, in person, the art that stands before us.
Ultimately, watching a theater performance, dance recital, poetry reading, symphony or visual art exhibition is a personal experience — being there to contemplate the art, to see it in the round, to hear directly the human behind the instrument, to walk around a vast gallery of art objects to contemplate, wonder and be inspired.
There is no technology more precious than the eyes and imagination and no better location than simply being there.
The Studio’s structure — the physical plant — houses the love, joy, frustration, debate and dialogue that makes art real, substantial and truly a human experience.
The Art Studio is offering an opportunity for artists to show in a smaller intimate setting.
The Pop Up Gallery will soon begin taking applications for the chance to exhibit in this space. The shows will run for two weeks. I hope to present one or more artists at a time. The Pop Up will run for approximately three months and will follow with an exhibition of studio residents. That will be followed by a permanent collection show.
Since we have so few exhibits for individuals, and because there are so many deserving Southeast Texan artists who want the chance to present their work, it seemed apparent we need to address this deficiency.
Our goal is to assure our artists, artisans and crafters that there is an opportunity to showcase their work and a reason to “Follow Your Bliss,” as Joseph Campbell would advise. Applications will be on the website soon.
Greg Busceme is TASI executive director