I've titled this Blog 'Beginnings' as this is a new experience of writing about my Artwork and the things that continue to inspire me to keep doing this thing I love. It takes over my World. Im continually inspired by situations, things people say...I even keep a notebook by the side of my bed as have some really creative idea's in the early hours of the morning, 3a.m seems to be a prolific time for idea's?, I use to put it down to the medication I was taking so was really worried when my Specialist suggested a change of drug regimen. But thankfully that wasnt the case.
As an Artist going to Networking events, you are always asked about your 'Blog' as it really seems to be a tool of the trade these days so thought that I had better get with the programme and start blogging.
The Artwork I create took a dramatic change of direction when I was diagnosed HIV Positive back in 2002. I had gone undiagnosed for over 10 years so the virus had really taken its toll on my body and I ended up in hospital for 3 weeks with a really chronic chest infection that indicated an AIDS diagnosis!!! I couldnt believe this was happening to me, no-one could believe it!!! Nobody thought that I would survive including myself as I was so frail. But I survived and had to learn to walk again and prioritise what was important in my life and making sure that I did as much as I could for what time I had?
I managed to complete my Fine Art Degree in which I won the Graduate Award for my Degree show that consisted of many pieces in a gallery setting all inspired by my HIV status. I worked so hard to produce a collection as that was my Goal from the beginning of the Degree. I wasnt interested in what marks I got, I just wanted to leave with a collection of Artwork that I could exhibit and raise awareness.
I won my First Solo Show with the Graduate Award. It was a little bit like the rabbit in the headlights at first as had no knowledge where to start with putting on a Solo show and all it entailed but got some good advice and then ticked each thing off as I went. It got easier and I actually really enjoyed the whole process.
I have had 3 Solo shows now and have been in many Group shows and still get the most amazing buzz when the work is up on the walls of the Gallery. Its not an easy Career choice and it is a choice that you have to commit 100% to but I believe you have to speculate to accumulate as nothing in life is ever that simple and easy and Ive been to the school of hardknocks and have many cuts and bruises from it...but my cuts and bruises are all adorned with the most decorative of plasters!!! Life is Art/Art is Life http://mandywebb43.com/
