At SCAD Lacoste, everything leads up to Vernissage, now known as Open Studio, which is a two-day event showcasing every classes' best work.
This quarter has been such a challenge for me, in more ways than one. I came to study-abroad, and while I've learned much more than I ever expected to, much of that did not translate to physical productions of artwork. I kept sketchbooks and journals and dabbled in new media (watercolor, india ink, and watercolor pencil), but I was struggling to find a concentration and motivation.
So when it was finally time to have a last critique and begin framing work, I felt like I let myself down. I saw other work from around the campus and it was incredible. I felt insignificant. Part of it had to do with the fact that I wasn't doing any major work, and I was only taking electives. But looking back, I'm proud. I've tried new things, not just with art. I've taken chances, leaps of faith, bound relationships that won't be broken, and discovered so much.
Open Studio ended up being extremely fun and exciting. These few pictures show just a glimpse of my first European exhibition.
Don't mind the selfies.
^ This is the first thing I see when I walk out of my dorm every morning. ^
^ Waking up, one of my last mornings sleeping in late in Lacoste. A lazy morning is known as "La Gras Matin" here. ^
^ Ready for the day! Thanks Paige for the makeover! ^
^ A friendly, German dog wandered in the photo lab where I was working to appreciate the artwork! ^
^ Grant used his amazing illustration skills to draw portraits during Open Studio. Congrats on selling amazing artwork this weekend! ^
^ Alex, you've been such a wonderful help these past few weeks. There was never a day where I didn't receive a compliment or loving hug from this guy; it always made my day. Thanks for wiping away tears and always testing the line of being inappropriate.
^ Meet my best friend. ^
^ Not enough space on blogspot to talk about Mike. I had the honor of helping him on his film (which is amazing and I now have a copy of!), and made a wonderful friend in the process. I don't know what I would do without you in France. And I don't know what you would do without my Spanish and French. Merci beaucoup. You have a beautiful heart, and oh so much sweg. ^
^ Bree! So much love and laughter from this gal. Thanks for being my bus buddy, even though I'm the worst person ever to sit next while driving. Our many selfies fill my heart with happiness. Also, I'm glad I found someone just as clumsy (if not more than) me. ^
^ Charlie! From Paris to Barcelona, you were a pretty fantastic roommate. You are always gorgeous and in such good spirits, even if you're lost and lonely. Thanks for making me dance and laugh with you. One Direction for the win. ^
^ Never a dull moment with these two! Taylor and Paige, you always had so much confidence in me, even when I lacked it! Thanks for always making me smile when I didn't want to, because I definitely needed to. Expecting many more days like these in Atlanta and hopefully Savannah. ^
^ Professor Klutsch was taking pictures of us taking pictures of him. ^
Sold my first piece in a SCAD exhibition. I walked into the room and originally thought it to be a joke, but the red dots do not lie. Thank you Samantha for purchasing my book, and taking home a piece of Provence for your bookshelf! This made my day.
^ Matt. Little does he know, he was actually one of my favorites here on campus. I could always count on him to lighten the mood, especially when I'm curled in a ball crying. Thank you for being a friend, even though you have a girlfriend. (Inside joke, everyone. ) ^
^ Juan Carlos! This kid was always so sweet and his snide comments were always amazingly sarcastic and hilarious. I'll never forget walking back from Bonnieux at night, lost, and trying to hitchhike (which was successful). Also, you're an amazing artist and you're going to go so far in life. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. ^
Following Open Studio, there was a Bon Voyage dessert reception at the Lookout.
And then, the Toga Party. This is probably going to be my last post before returning home to Atlanta. Lacoste leaves campus on Tuesday morning and then I'll be traveling to Florence, Italy for a few days. Until then, abientot.
^ Emalee. You've been such a sweet and kindhearted soul during my time here in Lacoste. I was your camera guy, and you were my Jim, and I'll miss our silent conversations and long nights. You are so beautiful and photogenic, and I'm so glad you let me take countless pictures of you on my camera which you also taught me how to use. I know our paths will cross soon, but until then, enjoy your next adventure, love. ^
^ This is an oldie, but a goodie. Molly, thank you for being there every night (literally because this girl was my roommate) and making me feel like I wasn't crazy. So glad to have spent so much time with you. You're an inspiration and I can't wait to see your hard work acknowledged. You're the best. ^
^ Looking a little rough on my end, but this may be the only picture I have of Adam smiling. Couldn't imagine my time here without this kid. He was always ready to have a good time and start new adventures, and somehow talked me into a lot of them. He was the baby in our family, and I can't wait to what's in store for him next. ^ Also acquired an amazing print from him of Taylor below.
^ Oh, Grant. First of all, we win the selfie game for this post I think. We look amazing. I'm actually extremely grateful for you, and I'm glad we got a little closer these past couple of weeks. Thanks for always being there. And for the amazing piece of artwork (below). ^
^ Beautiful print I got from TJ! Thanks so much! You guys should check out his website. tjsnider.com
