The Artists’ Tale―The Story
It was only last year, around this time, that the presentation of the Baker Artist Portfolios caused a stir in my local library. Rows of aspiring creative-arts people half-filled the room: the library staff were anxious to close the doors and go home for the day. Wrapping up the session, the presenter held us all with his steady gaze, a twinkle in his eye, and exclaimed:
“Let me tell you the very best advice I can give you about presenting your portfolios!… ” You could have heard a pin drop.
“Tell your story; describe your journey; explain your mission, but invite the visitors and judges to join you in your travels.
Encourage them to come with you on your trip. Show how you've been investigating and exploring your medium deeply―but do it in a way they will understand and enjoy…”
Some, stared blankly ahead. Others frowned. I held my head in my hands, as a mental gasp rippled among the crowd:
“You mean, we're on a journey?”
“Oh yes. So in your projects show the direction and depth of your artistic explorations.”
And so we began…