*This is the last of three writings exploring a teacher residency at the Cleveland Institute of Art. The experience explores the creative spirit between father and daughter. Summer celebrates the gift of time.
The days have been long, fierce, and determined. I’m taking advantage of every minute of creation at the residency. The lesson learned is the reclaiming of time. Distractions must be dispelled and priorities strengthened.
After four days, my father left to fly back home. We feverishly worked together recording audio and understanding the realities of our creative processes. Collaboration means research and prior technical vetting. Perfection is on the horizon.
With only a few days left, a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland was in order. Architect Farshid Moussavi designed the reflective and dynamic structure. Highlights included the video and installation exhibit titled Sondra Perry: A Terrible Thing. From website: “A Terrible Thing stems in part from Perry’s research into the history of blacksmithing as a form of highly skilled labor that, like other trades, creates the building blocks of infrastructure and architecture. Her interest in blacksmithing extends to the nature of the chemical reaction that occurs when human skin touches metal; a small layer of skin dies when contact is made, and a particular odor is released into the air. This transformation mirrors her interest in exploring the interplay between how people make spaces, and how spaces and materials shape people. Perry also weaves moments from the history of Cleveland’s once bustling Euclid Avenue corridor and the past life of what is now called the Uptown district into this new body of work…”
The impressive and engaging dialogue continued. The Cleveland Institute of Art sponsored a talk for the residents featuring Karl Anderson (Project Coordinator at SPACES, FORUM Art Space, and artist). He discussed the main residency goals of practice growth, networking, and creating artworks. Anderson shared the jurying application process, curatorial research, and dynamics within the artist community.
As the residency closes, final details emerge. It’s been productive completing 3 animations and 12 drawings. Residents are asked to prepare artworks for an exhibit highlighting the group’s experience. My goal is to exhibit three animations on a loop through a large monitor provided by the institution. With CIA expert technical assistance, my worries were dispelled.
The exhibition was packed with artists, supporters, and visitors. Artworks were professionally and thoughtfully displayed. To witness the final artworks was a glimpse into a collaborative creation process. Artist educators share a special bond.
The trip back home was bittersweet. Despite being homesick, the time was sacred and meaningful. Working with my father marked a moment of familial history. The Cleveland Institute of Art provided the opportunity and we welcomed it.
Links:
https://balisle.com/2018/12/30/anew/
https://www.cia.edu/academics/for-teachers-counselors/summer-teacher-residency
https://www.mocacleveland.org/
https://www.mocacleveland.org/exhibitions/sondra-perry-terrible-thing
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