Friday, January 23, 2015

LINEAGE/GENEALOGY TREE




What surprised you about your educational history? The reality that I’m really doing this. I’m impressed that after all the hard work and all the people that have been there for me, that I’m almost at the end of the path to my dream.  I would not be here today if it were not for the many great teachers that made sure that I had the skill set to accomplish my art goals.  Then, without the support of my family and my religious beliefs, I would not have been able to endure this journey.

What patterns do you notice emerging?
 When you are on a long-term journey, it takes many people to help you along the way and without a foundation you will never reach your potential.  I’m still growing into a better person everyday with the help of all these people.

Discuss the format you chose to create your visual lineage, reflect on the choices you made as you created your lineage. Pay attention to “ah ha” moments and/or challenging moments.

I chose to make a painting, because I have not painted in over four years and it’s something that I miss. In undergrad school I would paint everyday. I am not at the same level that I was once at.  In time I will regain that spirit I had at one time.  Until then I will continue to strive to show the inner part of my soul in my paintings. This image represents a genealogy of my education career. The roots that help get me in place to the trunk that is strong and large. Finally, the branches that keep growing with the help of my wonderful teachers. I may never be a great painter, but I have a greater opportunity to teach my students the skills they will need to be a success in the art world and in life.
                                     
                                     

3 comments:

  1. Shirley,

    ALL expression is wonderful and valid! Great painting is NOT about skill, its about heart (my humble perspective anyway) Your work is beautiful. I applaud you diving into materials you have not used in some time. I will confess, noticing my name is your tree made me smile. It is the first time I have appeared in a lineage. (That I know of) So I am honored indeed.

    Trees are amazing beings. They simultaneously exist in two environments, that above ground and of course below. Seen, and unseen, one section mirrors the other. Your roots must be strong to support the sturdy tree trunk. Are there unseen people (or qualities of people, memories, experiences etc) there below the surface? What qualities do you find supportive? Are roots past? Present? I am enjoying the potential in this metaphor.

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  2. Congrats on being at then end of your journey! I'm noticing that you used text on top of your tree to commemorate those who have helped you along the way. I noticed that I was doing the same thing with my artwork and was struggling with figuring out a way to showcase each one as an individual without writing in the name. It's almost as if I want EVERYONE to know that these people helped me along the way and that they deserve some sort of trophy for simply being the best! Did you feel as if you struggled with this as well? Creating a symbol for each rather then a name? Because I know I definitely have!!

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    1. I had a time with that too (the names). I have been so blessed to have these people in my life that I do want people to know who they are :) -Emily

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