I recently found out that I was one of two artists selected as the 2019 Emerging Artist Fellow at the MFA Boston. I am super excited to get started. It was an interesting process getting to this point. I made a decision some months ago that I am going to work toward becoming a professional full time artist. I am currently an art teacher and I appreciate my job and what I do, however I am burnt out as is common for teachers working in public schools, especially those of us in the middle schools. While teaching was wonderful for me and a great experience it is time for me to move on.
I had no idea where to turn or who I could speak with about my need to make my art a priority. I eventually thought of someone who I actually know that is a successful full time artist. I ask for his advice and that is when he suggested the MFA Fellowship. I was intimidated about applying, because I've never applied to something like this where I would have to show my art, write and speak about my work and my process. Even though I was nervous I was also determined and spent a good amount of time perfecting my application. I submitted it early and waited.
When i received the email asking for an interview I was ecstatic and would have felt it an honor to simply interview. Two weeks later I found out I was chosen as one of two fellows. I plan on updating this blog as I go through this fellowship program.