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…

The idea for this project comes from my experience of not fitting easily into any single category as a visual artist – and a recognition of the inherent subjectivity of selection, which spans all choice in art. My practice, although rooted in painting, is diverse – and this has attracted diverse criticism and support from the followers and gatekeepers of the various art forms I use. I am hoping that this blog, and the whole project, will help me to situate myself within the current art scene and offer direction for my future practice.

My web site shows most of my current work and a PDF of the catalogue in progress for the exhibition is available at http://www.karenwallis.co.uk/events.htm