What an awesome and fulfilling day. It was the culmination of my artist-in-residence at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Three months worth of costumes, photography, paintings, and soft sculptures are now on display until September 2021 in the library located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue, Henrico, Virginia 23228.
In the last few weeks of my residency, I decided to remake miniatures of my costumes on a doll and they turned out wonderfully. I was even impressed with myself. Though I tweaked the original design, the essence of the original is still very much present. I also learned how to use the band saw for the bases (at another residency at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond) to give shape to them that reflected the costume. I definitely will be making more art dolls. I took the ladies on a photo shoot in the garden earlier today. Aren't they lovely? (More photos of them to come in another post.)
The soft opening, in which I invited family and a few friends, was from 5-7pm tonight. The outpouring of love shown made me feel so very special. I couldn't have asked for a better opening night. My heart is truly brimming. Thank you so very much for coming out. It meant the world to me. (Ellyn, Teresa, Nita, Adrian, Frank and friend, Dennis, Vashti, Alex, Pat, Jesse, Tonnae, Gianna, Amiya, Guy, Barbara, Pat H., Linwood, Muzi, William, Jowarnise, Anwar, Allyce, Rozetta, and Ross - sleepy so I hope I didn't forget anyone.) I love you all.
I'd like to thank Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and Ellyn Parker for giving me this space and time to create from nature and grow as an artist. It was one of the best artist experiences I've ever had and I look forward to continue creating from this theme. Being in the garden rekindle my love of nature and my growing concern with environmental issues. I learned so much about different species of plants and insects, met some awesome horticulturists and gardeners, and learned different ways we can connect and interact with each other. I will miss being one of the artist-in-residents, but I will continue to be a regular presence at the garden. Until next time...