Living and Sustaining a Creative Life

New York Artist Sharon Louden has energized the Annual Conference for the College Art Association over the past few years by presenting some of the most valuable programming for studio artists. From opening up a platform for discussion of gallery relationships and relationships outside the gallery, studio practice and practice outside the studio,  to allowing artists to express what they do WHEN THEY ARE NOT MAKING ART  ( yes, openly addressing the deepest darkest issues ), Louden has handed the mic to artists speaking to other artists.

From a commitment to sharing information, experience, and knowledge, Sharon Louden approached 40 artists who were willing to open a door to their educations and student debt, jobs. art practices, and family lives. With simplicity, emotion, and sometimes even humor, these artists present many paths, not only through New York’s maze, but across a nation of smaller cities and towns. The one common thread is dedication and hard work. Even in the tales of the couple of individuals who confess to a need to goof off ( on schedule).

This is a precious document, an inspirational tome for regular reading and encouragement.

And if one is fortunate, as we were at the Richmond Art Center, and can catch Sharon Louden on book tour — the evening will fortify the most entrenched in this unending battle to keep making art.

Sharon Louden in Conversation with Jan Wurm at the Richmond Art Center