Last October, I dedicated a week of studio time to applying for the McKnight Fellowship for mid-career textile artists, through Textile Center. Grant applications consume large amounts of our creative energy and time, and can lead to financial security for a short period. But there’s much more to the process and its residual effects; read on and you’ll see.
Affirmation #1
First, by writing, re-writing, getting feedback, and editing descriptions of my work—why I do it, where it comes from, and its relevance—I understand much more about myself. I’ve always found writing goes hand-in-hand with my motivation to learn, not only about what’s around me, but also to look deeply at my response and viewpoint. The hours of struggle to define my work with words was rewarded by the juror’s comment that my application was one of the best written proposals they read.
Affirmation #2
I was selected as one of four finalists from sixty-three applications for two $25,000 fellowships.
Affirmation #3
I was thrilled to see a body of my work hanging in the Joan Mondale Gallery!
The finalists were invited to an in-person interview with the three jurors in early January. Packing and preparation began immediately. Normally, these interviews are held in the artist’s studio. However, two of the finalists were based in other cities in Minnesota. Textile Center arranged for each finalist to set up a mini-exhibition in their galleries. It took five hours, two assistants, levels, hammers, and nails to install the seven pieces I chose to show. I also hauled a whole stack of books, samples, work-in-process, etc. to show the jurors about my research and process, since that’s critical to my work.
Affirmation #4:
I need more practice talking about my own work and how it contributes to contemporary art.
On the day of the interview, I was terribly nervous, and it showed. Although I know the field well, I’m familiar with artists working with text, and the conceptual background of text and image, I didn’t convince the jurors of my expertise.
The two fellowships went to Liz Miller in Mankato, and Eun-Kyung Suh in Duluth.
Even so, I am a winner: I reached my goal of completing the application, and beyond my expectations, I was chosen as a finalist, an achievement to add to my resume. Additionally, three esteemed fiber experts have experienced my work in person. I met and connected with one of the other finalists and began a new friendship. I also received valuable feedback from the jurors that I will take into consideration as I move forward.
Thank you to Textile Center and the McKnight Foundation for this great opportunity!