The symposium was great, and rewarding on multiple levels. I watched some very nice and interesting demos, sat in on some good panel discussions, and drooled all over the myriad gallery pieces. I also got to reconnect with folks I’ve met previously, and connect with folks I’ve recently been acquainted with as well as folks I didn’t have a chance to connect with last time.
This was my second symposium, not counting the free gallery/trade-show experience in Chattanooga. The first symposium last year was wildly intimidating, but this one quite a bit less. There was much more of a sense of seeing old friends this go around. I suspect the third Symposium and beyond will continue that trend.
For me personally, even though this wasn’t my first symposium, it was still a symposium of firsts. It was the first time I had a piece in the Member’s Exhibition, the first time I had a piece in the POP exhibition, and related to the latter the first time I had a piece for sale in an auction of prestigious status. I say this, not to toot my own horn, but for two important reasons. The first reason, my previous experiences in the Chattanooga and Louisville symposiums greatly influenced my trajectory as a turner. It exposed me to what was possible, expanded my own creativity, and entrenched me in this community (which in turn gave me a bit of “what’s next” hunger). The second reason, having an Exhibiting Artist ribbon on my nametag was such a good icebreaker for conversations, and allowed me to see and talk about other people’s work (as well as allow people to see and talk to me about my own work). This just bolsters a (my) sense of place/fit within the community. It also let me connect more strongly with Tib Shaw, who is such a great person and likely the hardest working individual at the symposium.
I must also note that I find it really helpful that the first-timers are identified by a name tag ribbon. I tried to talk to as many folks with that tag as possible. And although I could’ve been better, I tried to make it a point to ask if they brought pieces for the gallery. If they did, I asked if I could see it and we had a conversation. If they didn’t bring pieces I asked why and also encouraged them to do so next time. I found that the main reason someone didn’t bring pieces is that they were intimidated or didn’t think their work was up to par. Valid feelings on a self-conscious or ego level, but also unfounded in the sense that this is the most supportive community around. Everyone wants to see what everyone else is doing, regardless of what’re you’re at in your journey. It’s also very meaningful (at least it was/is to me) when someone shows genuine interest in your work, and often leads to a much higher quality conversation than the typical “how’s the symposium going” theme. For example, I met Sally Burnett for the first time this weekend. After some brief chitchat, she asked to see what I had in the gallery and the rest is history. Imagine, one of my turning idols wants to genuinely see my work—doesn’t get much cooler than that, and you better believe it stoked my fire tremendously.
Anyway, I’ll stop rambling. This was my first real debrief of the symposium. I’m leaving a lot out, but gosh what a good experience. Hope to see you all in St. Paul!
. I'd encourage everyone to look at the Calls for Entries and apply - there are a number of opportunities each year. Even if not accepted, the self-evaluation of your own work and introspection needed to just apply is a growth opportunity!
I was the lucky one to be on the same pedestal as one of your pieces. That was affirmed by your Excellence award in the gallery!!! Spot on about the call for entries too. And it was great to finally meet you in person Dave!
