We recently connected with Sydney Yeager and have shared our conversation below.
Sydney, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
When I decided to return to school and pursue a degree in art, I had 2 young children and no idea what would happen. I gave up an opportunity to pursue an advanced degree with a more “practical” end result. I credit my spouse, who made this remark as we discussed options: “You don’t want to look back on your life,” he said, “and wonder what might have happened.” We were struggling to make ends meet, and there were two children to be cared for. It was a risky decision that we made together. I gave up graduate status, went back as a freshman to study art. I didn’t dare dream that I would go on to get an MFA, have a career as an artist and a teaching job. It was a risk I am so happy I took.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
As a painter, I hope clients will recognize the unique quality of the work. On my studio wall, I have a letter written by Martha Graham to Agnes de Mille. In part, she says “there is only one you in all time, this expression is unique. And f you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost.” I try to remember this statement when I doubt my work and I hope the viewers and collectors of my paintings will value them for their unique qualities.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Many myths exist about the “freedom” of being an artist. The idea that artists have a carefree bohemian lifestyle is misguided. Most artists have a very disciplined life, and dedicate most of their time to working on their craft. My social life is quite limited. I dedicate most of my time to the studio, and I love it. Being a painter is a demanding occupation, and one that requires continuous dedicated time to develop. I love the time I spend in the studio. I think most artists are “driven” to work and continuously struggle to make their work more challenging .
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most wonderful thing about being a painter is the excitement of daily discovery. I relish the time I spend in the studio, and I hope to continuously develop subtle changes and evolution of my practice.
Contact Info:
- Website: sydneyyeager.com
- Instagram: sydney.p.yeager
Image Credits
Thomas Jack Hilton, photographer