Same Time Next Year: Celebrating The Art of the Portrait
Celebrating The Art of the Portrait
by Annette Goings
Whether you are new to art or have an accomplished career, we all want to connect and engage with others who share our values and viewpoints. When I was searching for a path into the world of art, someone suggested I attend the Portrait Society of America’s conference.
At the time of that suggestion, I was a beginner and had not heard of the Portrait Society. After learning more about the association and conference, I made a bold move and reserved a spot for the next event. Arriving at the conference in Atlanta, I didn’t know anyone, but within a short amount of time, I met many people from beginning
artists to those at the pinnacle of the art world. I always enjoy looking back on how seemingly insignificant choices exceed your expectations and change the course of events in our lives. The choice to attend that conference would become a seminal moment in my life because my whole outlook and point of view on what was possible shifted.
It was at this event, the people I met and spoke with, and the conversations we shared that changed my direction and focus. Each year when I receive my invitation to the next year’s conference my thoughts tend to focus on who will be teaching, painting, my financial investment in me, my growth, seeing (now)
old friends and looking forward to meeting new friends and then recapping why this has become important in my life.
Unlike other professions, as artists, we often work alone in “our own little corners” and don’t have a steady group of associates. One thing artists often talk about is the danger of isolation—a professional hazard. One of the first things I benefitted from was the coming together of likeminded people and the opportunity to engage with so many talented artists who are not normally so accessible. For me it is great fun to walk into any room and see the camaraderie, so many artists excited, in their element, talking and sharing ideas.
Whether it’s a conference, a workshop or some other investment of time and money there is always that question—can I afford this? Inevitably it’s one of the first questions we ask ourselves. So where, when and how do we invest in ourselves and our art career? Because most of us are self-employed, we need to seek opportunities that bring us maximum returns. As with any commitment we make there is always a cost, but equally there exists the potential for significant growth. For me, attending the Portrait Society’s conference
each year answers these questions with an affiliative yes.
At this event creativity, inspiration and fantastic art are always at the forefront, starting with the Face-off featuring 18 artists painting together in the Grand Ballroom to topic focused breakout sessions to viewing the original artwork by the 24 finalists in The International. The main standout for me is everyone’s openness and willingness to come together and share their time. Each year I see people ready to learn, to share and to teach.
In this atmosphere, in the span of one day, it’s possible to explore other artists’ approaches to their work, hear varied and differing opinions, techniques and learning about other paths to excellence. There’s so much awe-inspiring energy packed into four days.
Like clockwork, April now represents a personal rhythm, a time for renewal, self-development and a time to renew my commitment to my work, which the conference facilitates. Additionally, with each year’s succession, I have the great
pleasure to see other artists’ growth, to see their work take shape and see them achieve success in their profession. The environment is so dynamic, yet constant and it continues to provide the opportunity to see what’s possible…at the next level.
So, what happens when it’s all over, the exhilaration has diminished, and you leave the comfort of this inspirational environment? How do you carry forward that enthusiasm
and hold the spirit of the moment? During and after the conference is the best time to evaluate and ponder next year’s steps. It’s the time to think about how to create your momentum; tighten your focus; budget for opportunities; and how to put yourself out there. Also, endeavor to develop relationships and connections with other artists who inspire you because the community you establish helps everyone reach higher.
Annette Goings is a member of the Portrait Society of America and serves as Literature Chair for the Cecilia Beaux Forum. Currently living in Pawleys Island, South Carolina she has lived in many places in the United States and Europe. Traveling, meeting new people and seeing new places has had a profound effect on her life and art.