I feel so very supported by the universe – I know that sounds so very cliche. I am just not sure how else to explain it. I make a little wish and it comes true. More of a passing ‘what if?’ or ‘imagine…’ and POOF. There appears that very path in my life. It’s kind of ridiculous. I have to be careful what to wish for. While my life has never been easy, I admit this phase or path of creativity just seems to be the right one.
As a fibre artist for 3 yrs, the craziest thing happened. I did that ‘what if’ thing again. In 2012, I put in a proposal to a gallery for the first time, and it was approved. It all began with a vision. I thought, ‘imagine walking into a room filled with prairie themed art, and it was ALL fibre pieces!?” The next thing I know, I’ve been selected as guest curator to put that very show together.
In late 2013, the exhibit begins its development. I make a Call for Entries and it begins circulation to a variety of guilds, including Craft Councils in three provinces. I pass the word as best I can. The final additions have until the fall of this year to be decided upon / discovered. For now, I need a selection of pieces to begin building the show. In the back of my mind, I keep envisioning this room. I imagine wall hangings, art and traditional quilts, felted sculptures, dolls, knitting, weaving, hooking. I hope for images of elevators, sky, water, seasons, trains, weather, beasts, and blossoms.
It’s 2014 now. The entries have rolled in with the deadline passed. I admit that many times in the process of viewing images of pieces sent my way, I have had tears fill my eyes and joy fill my heart. I couldn’t be happier. (O brother. Could I sound any more like a greeting card!?) Wouldn’t you know it? Everything I wished for has been fulfilled in one way or another. I even discovered a keystone to the whole exhibit that connects all of the work and artists involved. That unification is critical to my show.
Now my job is to chose definite pieces, and then search for more. I look forward to treasure hunting this summer. I have had such a great experience talking to other fibre artists. I am amazed with the calibre of their work. I am excited to gather people together in that room on opening night in 2015. I want people to feel the depth of love for our prairies and see the vast spectrum and skill from fibre artists. Now approaching my 5th year as a full time professional artist, the role of Curator is expanding my creativity more than I had anticipated, and bringing some very useful experiences to my path. I am ever grateful to the SK Craft Council for offering me this and many other fine opportunities.
Feeling blessed.
M.K.W.
monika kinner-whalen 