"Art is the only way to run away without leaving home" (Twyla Tharp)

Emerging Artist ...


A collage of works to be exhibited © Vicki Lee Johnston


The last few years have been a mixed bag of sorts but at the end of the day if you follow a path you're passionate about and work really hard at it - eventually you start to see rewards.  

© Vicki Lee Johnston

 Being a student on the Society of Botanical Artists DLDC has taught me to be patient - either waiting for results, waiting for the right subject or even waiting for washes to be at just that right stage to work with.  There was a lot of frustration in the first year trying to learn more - and it was really up to me to do the study, trial different techniques and work to a fixed timetable.  Once my final diploma portfolio of artworks was sent off I did feel like I had somehow experienced a metamorphosis - I am now more relaxed and patient and I do realise if you put the time and effort in it will pay off.  For now I was happy to say I had achieved a huge goal simply by completing the course alongside work and family commitments. 

© Vicki Lee Johnston

 I was just stopping to take a breath while I waited to hear final results,  catching up on household and work commitments.   Also looking forward to the planning of attending Graduation in London, which made for a nice change from the stress of deadlines.   Just as things had settled down I received a lovely email from the Director of a beautiful gallery  - who mentioned that I had been identified as an 'emerging artist' and invited me to take part in their exhibition launching new artists. 

© Vicki Lee Johnston

 With everything coming up I couldn't see how I could manage it but the exhibition tucks nicely in between completion of the course and travelling to London.  The only thing was that I needed to stretch the  chosen artworks, deliver them to the local framer and have them ready for hand in which is next week!   I will be exhibiting alongside acrylic works,  textiles, glass and sculptural pieces - the photos here are small snapshots of the artworks chosen  to be included in the exhibition.
A lot of my artworks were unavailable to be selected and my final diploma works are currently in London.

© Vicki Lee Johnston

It all fell into place - now I am looking forward to participating in this wonderful opportunity as an invited artist.    This means there are no gallery hire costs and the only expense to me is framing - and of course commission when paintings are sold.  I have had previous artwork exhibited at the London  Exhibition, all taken care of by the SBA  - but this time it's up to me to get it to hanging stage and see firsthand the workings of an exhibition from empty gallery to opening night.  
I look forward to the whole process and will keep you posted...

© Vicki Lee Johnston

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty"
Maya Angelou


All images Copyright © Vicki Lee Johnston

20 comments:

  1. Wonderful to see that all you hard work is winging it's way to England Vicki, well done. I must agree with your last post, home grown roses are the best..

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  2. Congratulations! Your work is beautiful and I am sure will show well.

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  3. Your art is always stunning. It's more than worth the stop here every time. And today your words so resonated with me - as a writer.

    "The last few years have been a mixed bag of sorts but at the end of the day if you follow a path you're passionate about and work really hard at it - eventually you start to see rewards."

    And the wisdom to have patience with the process. In your case - you're wildly talented and gifted - but we do have to practice, practice, practice, don't we?

    Congratulations on all that you've accomplished and the path you're on!

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    1. Thank you Barb, that is very kind of you.
      Yes, we have to work at it all the time if we want to progress.
      My journey is still young so I hope the path is long ..

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  4. Deborah MontgomerieMarch 10, 2013 at 1:08 PM

    Well done Vicki, how exciting for you. And how lovely for allof those folks who will get to see your work for the 1st time :-)

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  5. Congratulations Vicki - that's wonderful news re. the gallery!! I always enjoy reading your thoughtful posts.. thank you :)

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  6. Thats really fantastic news Vicki, and very well deserved.

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  7. The gallery shows some sense! Well done and well-deserved!

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  8. This is brilliant news Vicki - I am chuffed to bits for you. How lovely to know that someone has identified you and has watched you grow and wants you in their gallery. You deserve this and I place good money that your pieces will sell.

    Lovely little piece about your metamorphosis. It's certainly been a journey! Lots of highs and lows. It's been an honour to watch you master a technique and become a prominent botanical artist. Well done Vicki!

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    1. Hey Jess thank you ... I am really looking forward to the whole process.
      I really appreciate your support and have always admired your creative approach :)

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  9. Congratulations, Vicky! This sounds like a marvelous opportunity and I am sure that your work will be enjoyed by many at the gallery.

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