selected & rejected

To prepare for the second part of my exhibition, I have been collecting documentation of all my submissions to advertised opportunities. In the past the process of making applications has generated feelings of doubt, frustration and a general sensitivity to being rejected. But, having had to increase my number of applications for this project, my perspective has shifted. Rejection is now less upsetting and, not only have I had a few unexpected successes, but a few near misses have introduced a new ‘short listed’ category. I’m also getting better at judging what work to submit and making better use of my diverse practice to increase the chance of success. Nevertheless, it all takes time away from making work and the costs of so many applications are adding up. I do sometimes wonder why artists have to compete for every opportunity…