The Dreaded In-Between Time

How do I always let this happen?

I once watched a documentary on a Canadian artist who stated that she tried to work on projects that lasted in increments of 5 -10 years so that she didn't' have to face, as often, the depression that usually sets in post project. In this case, the show I just sent off to Western Canada.

Granted, I am much better at cushioning the blow that I was a few years ago. Here is what I have managed to do to make life bearable in the post show times:

1. Line up work that needs to be done the moment the said project is complete: In this case it is the fact that I am in mid section of teaching an art class and that another two start at the beginning of July. This sorta counts I guess. Problem is that it is only on Sundays.

2. Make sure that the next show is on the horizon: Truth is I am motivated by deadlines. Not as an artist but as a person in general. Just so happens that this nasty habit crepes into my art practice. What I am saying is that unless I have dates and timelines, I will do nothing but watch sports and do admin stuff. Good yes! But does not pay the mortgage. At this point I am participating in a group show in Toronto in late September or early October (too far away!!) I am also trying to put together something for the Secord Gallery for November or February (way too far away to worry myself into action). I have a grant application along with every other artist in the province of Nova Scotia – which means I have a better chance of getting stuck by lightning (which is much more likely than winner Lotto 6-49 as it turns out!)

3. Open the studio: Open the studio! Wednesday to Saturday 12 – 5 pm. This means that if I do procrastinate and fall deeper into a post show funk, it will be in the studio. So starting this Wednesday, it is open!

So all in all, it could be much worse.