Last weekend, I took a workshop with artist, Pat Steir. She reminded me of some of my professors in art school: her attitude and aspiration. She isn't trying to be clever. She kept saying things like, "Don't show me how smart you are. I am not interested." I guess saying that sort of thing that gets you labelled "old school" because it isn't about showing off or shouting the loudest but, instead, it is about really trying to understand something. Realize something beyond superficialities.
Of course, Pat is a very successful painter who has been in the game for a long time, so I won't romanticize her either. She knows how to hustle. Still, it was quite refreshing to meet someone who is still talking the talk after so many years of hustling. I think this is my favourite line from the short video she made with the Met.
"Any work of art that hits its mark is a useful object because it changes the person who see it."
This clip is so powerful - thank you for posting it. I can't imagine what it would be like to take a workshop with her. If you can I'd love to hear more about your experience.
ReplyDeleteHi Jan, Ok - I did take some notes on things she said that really resonated. Part of it was just her whole persona, but I will try to say more. I have been reflected on it all for various reasons so maybe it will come together in a future post.
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