Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marianne Hall. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Marianne, thanks for joining us today. Do you take vacations? How do you keep things going – any advice for entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation?
Short Answer: Yes.
Long Answer: Absolutely! I find immense joy in exploring new places and immersing myself in diverse cultures. It goes beyond the traditional notion of lounging on a beach or hitting the slopes – for me, vacations are about enriching experiences. In 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Switzerland for a month, exploring the country with a friend who lives there. The cultural immersion and scenic beauty were unparalleled.
2023 saw me embarking on a solo trip to Europe, motivated by a desire to see two ‘once in a lifetime’ art exhibits. I visited London for the Magdalena Abakanowitz retrospective and Paris for the Joan Mitchell retrospective, which were transformative experiences. Additionally, a road trip to Michigan allowed me to reconnect with family and friends after years of separation. A spontaneous side trip to New York, where I attended a show I was part of in Brooklyn, added an extra layer of joy to the journey.
I am aware of the privilege that comes with being in a stage of life where such extensive travel is feasible. This year, my plans include a road trip to attend a workshop in Tennessee, and if accepted, participating in an artist residency. These endeavors not only fulfill my love for exploration but also contribute to my personal and professional growth. Travel, for me, is about more than just a break – it’s a continuous journey of discovery and self-expansion.
Marianne, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I can’t recall ever not making art. My earliest memories are evidenced by a photo of me sitting on my family’s porch with a box of crayons when I was 3 or 4. Today, as a visual artist I focus on abstract pieces using neutral colors like black, off-white, and tan. I’ve worked with different materials over the years, like mulberry paper, collage, and a wax-based paint called encaustic. Recently, I’ve been working on wall sculptures using wire, fabric, and balloons. My art is a reflection of my emotions, and I always incorporate tactile or textured elements.
People often say my work is unique and ask about my ideas. Honestly, I find myself in a meditative state during much of the creative process, allowing ideas to flow effortlessly without overthinking.
One thing I’m proud of is my persistence. I’ve faced many challenges, but I’ve kept going with my art even when it seemed easier to stop.
A deep spiritual foundation underpins my work. I embrace the belief in a universal spirit that connects us all, and my creations are infused with the energy I’ve cultivated as a student of healing touch. This spiritual perspective adds an extra layer of meaning to everything I create, reinforcing the profound connection between my art and the world around me.
A deep spiritual foundation underpins my work. I embrace the belief in a universal spirit that connects us all, and my creations are infused with the energy I’ve cultivated as a student of healing touch. This spiritual perspective adds an extra layer of meaning to everything I create, reinforcing the profound connection between my art and the world around me.
My artistic journey is marked by a lifelong passion for creation, a commitment to pushing boundaries, and a spiritual connection that permeates every piece I produce. I hope to share not only my artwork but also the inspiration that comes from persistently following one’s creative calling, despite the challenges along the way.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Yes! Thank you for the opportunity to address this question.
Navigating the journey as a creative is a unique and challenging path that may be difficult for non-creatives to fully comprehend. The commitment required to sustain the life of an artist is profound, often accompanied by persistent self-doubt that we are on the right path. This challenge intensifies when creating art not solely for commercial purposes, as questions regarding our skill, the relevance of our work, and its marketability become persistent companions.
Beyond the creative struggle itself, the distractions inherent in a full life can have a profound impact. Marriage, divorce, raising children, health issues, caring for elderly family members, and financial difficulties all conspire to disrupt the delicate balance required for a flourishing creative life. These external pressures can lead to a questioning of one’s worth, as the artist grapples with the elusive quest for recognition and appreciation. Throughout my life I’ve dealt with all of these issues.
Moreover, the misconception about the ease of making a living through art is a common misunderstanding. The costs associated with pursuing a creative path are substantial, starting with the significant financial investment in education, followed by ongoing expenses for materials, studio space, and continuous learning. The time commitment is also a crucial aspect often underestimated by non-creatives. Creative endeavors are not confined to specific hours; inspiration strikes at unpredictable moments, demanding a flexible and continuous dedication that extends beyond conventional working hours.
Furthermore, the creative process itself is multifaceted. It involves not just the visible act of creating but also moments of reflection, problem-solving, and inspiration that can occur during seemingly mundane activities like staring out a window, taking a shower, or preparing for bed. Understanding and appreciating these nuances is crucial for grasping the intricacies of the creative journey.
Despite these challenges, the intrinsic motivation to create is a powerful force that emanates from the depths of one’s soul. Those fortunate enough to tap into this wellspring and find the necessary support can persevere through a lifetime of artistic exploration and expression. It’s a journey marked by resilience, tenacity, and an unwavering passion that, when comprehended, reveals the profound depth of the creative experience.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
In the spring of 2021, my life took an unexpected turn when my partner was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. The journey that followed was both emotionally and creatively challenging, as we navigated through the trials of his treatment and eventual passing. Throughout this period, my commitment to being by his side posed a unique dilemma for my artistic pursuits.
In response to this challenge, I devised a creative solution by keeping materials within reach, allowing me to craft what I referred to as “possibles.” These were components that held the potential to evolve into larger artistic pieces. As my partner underwent brain surgery to remove a significant tumor, and the subsequent year was consumed by treatments aimed at prolonging his life, I found solace in my creative process.
After his passing, grappling with the profound grief, I turned to stitching as a means to keep my hands busy and provide an outlet for processing my emotions. The result was a collection of pieces that encapsulated the essence of that period in our lives.
A year later, my artistic focus shifted towards themes of coping and self-care. Currently, I am immersed in creating an installation inspired by the Tibetan concept of the bardo—the transitional state between death and rebirth. This project, meant to convey a sense of upliftment, draws inspiration from the comfort I found in the notion of the bardo during my partner’s illness.
This story is just one of many in my creative journey that exemplifies the resilience required when facing life’s unpredictable twists and turns. As an artist, there is no option but to continue creating, even amidst the challenges. Shaun McNiff’s ‘Trust the Process’ has been an invaluable guide, offering timeless wisdom on navigating the complexities of a creative life. His insights have become a beacon, guiding me through the starting and stopping inherent in the creative process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mariannehallartist.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariannehallartist/
Image Credits
Main personal photo credit: Aziza Murray http://www.azizamurray.com All other photo & artwork images created by the artist Marianne Hall ©2024
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