erin schalk
On Sunday, January 14th, I had the pleasure of participating in a poetry reading at the Black Cat Bookstore in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Almost twenty local poets treated us to some of their recent work which encompassed life in New Mexico, spirituality, illness, and coping with loss of a loved one. The poems were powerful in their sincerity, and it was an honor to be in the company of such wonderful poets!
Photo credits: artists Souheir Rawlings , Caz Love and Meagan Thompson.
On January 6th, 2018, I'll begin the EBLAR 2018 artist residency in Elephant Butte Lake State Park, New Mexico. I am looking very forward to this opportunity to dive into more painting and video work, as well as connect with fellow artists in this peaceful and beautiful setting. Resident artists will also have a group exhibition in January -- details to come.
I am honored that Geocommunetrics, a publication dedicated to engagement in identity and culture, has recently published some of my poetry, photography and video work in their most recent issue of HOME : : KEEP, RE: DIS//MIS. My work may be viewed here.
While I am writing this post in retrospect, I would like to note a writing workshop I recently taught at the Vermont Studio Center. The entire project was the brainchild of NYC-based poet Rangi McNeil, author of The Missing (2003). Many visual arts VSC residents were in the middle of applications for graduate school, professorships, fellowships and new residencies. Many of these applicants needed help with artist statements, research statements and personal essays. McNeil orchestrated the entire event and asked me to lead and teach, given that I straddle both visual arts and writing. Our Writing Art Workshop was held Wednesday, December 20th at VSC's Mason House Library, and proved to be a beneficial experience for all participants.
Many thanks to Rangi McNeil, VSC and the many workshop attendees for your participation and support of the project!
I am writing from beautiful Johnson, Vermont at the Vermont Studio Center (VSC) residency for artists and writers. I will be present at this residency until just before Christmas.
I am currently a resident on the basis of my poetry, so I am spending each day heavily engaged in the Maverick Studios.
I recently read a book which described the process of giving photos as a gift and in the spirit of gratitude, rather than the commonly spoken phrase "taking photos." The following are images of the Vermont landscape and the VSC campus for your enjoyment.
I wish each of you a wonderful holiday season!
