The day I opened my email to find that my painting had been accepted to be a part of the 2019 Summer Party Art Auction, all I could think about was getting my way to Boston to be there in person. Despite the expanse of ocean and full breadth of the continental USA that now separates myself from the place I called home for the past four years, the decision to attend was made the moment I read the acceptance email. There was no other option. I was going!
Upon arriving at the Museum my fellow artists and I were ushered in up the grand steps and into the lower rotunda where my work rested upon a wooden easel in front of walls adorned with John Singer Sargent paintings. What a surreal moment to see my painting displayed—if only for the night—alongside a master I have long admired! That in of itself would have been enough, but the night proved to have even more in store.
Not long after our arrival, the VIP guests began to trickle in dressed to the nines in tuxes and evening gowns. Before long the trickle hastened to a steady flow of people stopping to admire our work on their way to the elegant courtyard below. As an artist, I have found that one of the most gratifying moments I can have are those in which I am allowed to observe others interacting with my work without my interference. The sincerity of their gaze is a rare treat. When else do I get to see an unadulterated response to my creations?
As the night continued and the second wave of guests arrived, I floated in and out of the rotunda alternately talking with people about my work and allowing myself the simple joy of observation, all the while bonding with my fellow artists over the performances and the elegance of the party. I cannot emphasize enough how much happiness and pride this event gave me.
In the months leading up to this auction I have found my artistic process grinding to almost a complete stop. The lack of an academic environment has been difficult for me. Between the lack of studio space, time, guidance, and dare I say deadlines, I have struggled immensely to sustain an artistic practice I can be proud of. Accompanying my lack of productivity is a growing lack of confidence in my work and my artistic vision. This auctions has truly renewed my confidence and commitment to my art practice.
Thank you to the MFA and the Museum Council for all their hard work putting together this event. The night proved to be magical in so many ways and I cannot accurately express how blessed I feel to have been a part of it all. It really was one of the most gratifying moments thus far in my artistic career. Lastly, thank you to the kind soul who saw something special in my work and decided to place their bid.
