We recently connected with Meg Wolensky and have shared our conversation below.

Meg, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

As a still-life painter, my practice is more than just capturing objects on canvas; it’s about documenting the essence of queer life in all its complexity. Through my work, I strive to shine a light on the struggles and triumphs of the queer community, both past and present. Drawing inspiration ancient texts like those documented in Anne Winter’s Fragments of Sappho, I weave together fragments of queer literature, personal stories, and resistance movements to create a tapestry of resilience, defiance, and survival.

Queer people have always existed, we are here now, and our stories will endure for generations to come. I aim to not only celebrate the beauty and diversity of queer identity but also to acknowledge the deep-rooted systemic challenges that continue to impact our community. By delving into the depths of history and exploring the intricacies of modern-day existence, I hope to create a space where every aspect of queer identity is honored and cherished.

This work is also inspired by the technical aspects of Dutch golden age vanitas, referencing techniques historically used to depict collections of symbolic objects communicating the inevitability of death, the transience and vanity of earthly achievements and pleasures, and exhorting the viewer to consider mortality and to repent. My paintings flip this concept, weaving complex narratives of resilience, defiance, acceptance and survival in a world where queerness is deemed sinful. This work isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of who we are as queer people; diamonds formed under the immense pressure to conform within society. Inspired by what is lost in fragments of affirming ancient queer writings, I reconcile our collective past and present.

In a world where being different can sometimes feel life-threatening, I want my art to be a beacon of hope and strength for my fellow queer folks. Through my paintings, I aim to honor our history while also shedding light on the challenges we still face today. We have always been here, living vibrant lives despite adversity. And I believe that by sharing our stories through art, we can inspire future generations to embrace their true selves with pride and resilience.

The opportunity to exhibit my artwork in venues across the country, including universities, museums, galleries, and community centers, has been incredibly affirming. It not only allowed me to share queer histories with a wider audience, but also opened doors for collaborations and networking within Philadelphia’s robust queer community. Being recognized with the InLiquid’s Dina Wind Fellowship in 2023 was a humbling experience that validated the importance of the work. Overall, this body of artwork holds great significance to me because it is a testament to how art can serve as a powerful tool for self-discovery, empowerment, and social change.

Meg, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I got into the arts nonprofit world as a teen struggling to find my place in the world. I volunteered at my local art center to host summer courses for youth. Since that first encounter with arts management, I’ve worked for Philadelphia’s most beloved arts and cultural organizations.

Art has always been a powerful tool for self and community building. As an adult, I’m dedicated to creating a sense of homecoming for creative LGBTQIA+ youth in the classroom. My background in both fine arts and arts administration allows me to provide holistic solutions that are informed by creative strategy, nonprofit management, and audience research. I have the pleasure of developing strategy and implementation for creative educational programs for students of all ages seeking community in a creative environment, which I find particularly moving because I, myself, was a participant in my employer’s creative youth programming as a teen during some of the most volatile years of my life.

One of the most meaningful projects I have had the privilege to work on was when I created a creative pre-college educational experience for young women, non-binary, trans and gender non-conforming teens embarking on a journey of personal growth, college preparedness and life-changing mentorships with professional artists. I found myself closely aligned with this field based on my own struggles as a teenager trying to find my identity in the world. Through this endeavor, I aimed to provide support and encouragement to those who may be facing similar challenges, inspiring them to express themselves through art and make a impact on society.

Outside of my role at Moore College, I also offer my expertise in curatorial work, grant-writing, art handling, and arts nonprofit administration to fellow queer artists, students, organizations, and initiatives. By sharing my knowledge and skills with others, I hope to inspire and empower the next generation of creatives to make their mark on the world through art.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

As a teen, I was outed and disowned. At that pivotal time in my youth, I was in a dire situation stuck between a rock and a hard place. I felt that my only option was to stay in an abusive environment.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

For a long time, I felt that I’d earned the suffering I experienced because I was different. I agonized over the loss of close formative relationships. I felt weak and my gut instincts were pushed so far down that I couldn’t heed their guidance. I wish I could go back in time, give little me a hug, and let them know that they deserved so much better. Queer kids deserve the world and then some.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.megwolensky.com
• Instagram: @aantics
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NotAntics
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-wolensky-57170283/

Image Credits

Charles Fox, Staff Photographer for the Inquirer (Image of me painting the Big Moon in my studio)
Steve Weinik, Photographer (Image of me working with a youth student and instructor)