My Nantucket Art Experience

Art residencies are a chance to be inspired, refreshed and to create.  After my extraordinary experience last summer in Italy, I decided to try another residency but closer to home.  

I applied and was accepted as a resident at the Nantucket School of Design and the Arts.   

Nantucket has a vibrant arts community.  I seemed to meet artists everywhere.. on the street painting, in the many galleries and through other artists.   There are organized art classes but there are also occasions when local artists get together for a regular "art crit".  I was invited to attend the art critique with highly regarded artist Ken Layman.  It was one of the most interesting experiences I've had as an artist.  

There were five professional artists who brought work, partially finished or completed, to get

reactions and direction if needed.  For an artist, getting feedback can be inspiring and pivotal. I met with Ken afterward and he shared his artistic experiences, thoughts, and techniques for moving forward. He also suggested a few art books, including The Art Spirit by Robert Henri.

My art has been exhibited in the Vanderbilt Gallery for several years and I ship new work every season.  I was interviewed about my art by the Inquirer & Mirror newspaper which was published prior to the opening reception at the gallery.    

My time on the island made a big impact on me. I am thankful for this experience that allowed me to grow my art, my friendships, and community in ways I couldn't imagine.... just what an art residency is supposed to do.