Notes from the Rensing Center: Show and Tell: Create What You Care About

When I decided to take a leave of absence from my teaching position to attend two separate artist residencies, I was met with confusion by many who had never heard of such a thing, associating "residencies" with the medical profession , some mandated professional development or a grown up "art camp" of sorts. Thousands of these programs exist throughout the world offering artists from every discipline, including writers, performers, painters, sculptors and so forth, dedicated space, time and solace to focus on their own work, develop new skills or simply retreat and reflect from the familiar. The reasons for attending residential programs, which range from a single weekend to an entire year, are as varied as the artists themselves. The residency programs are extremely diverse as well, having their own missions and expectations for the artists. Some are simply to offer them respite to work and think without distraction.

I am currently 2 weeks shy of completing my residency at the Rensing Center. The spacious studios, private living arrangements and breathtaking landscape are features that make this program an obvious draw. Above all else, it is the quality of the artistic community and the generosity and accessibility of the director, Ellen Kochansky, that make the Rensing Center exceptional. Ellen is a renowned textile artist, educator, art advocate and workshop facilitator offering more than 30 years of professional expertise to her residents to whom she has literally welcomes into her home. She resides on the property and one quickly becomes aware of the deep seated connection and regard that she has for the environment and community, including and beyond the center itself. It is not unusual to be invited to Ellen's private residence for an impromptu dinner and conversation. This is truly a family affair and residents are quickly embraced as extended members.

The Rensing Center most recently welcomed artist couple, Michelle and Richard Fritz of Kansas City, MO . I think the opportunity to connect with creative individuals, like minded in their devotion to their craft, is perhaps one of the most enriching aspects of the residential experience. Working in isolation is natural and important to every artist but connection and collaboration with other creatives from diverse geographic and cultural backgrounds is an invaluable learning opportunity. On Tuesday evening, prior to the departure of resident painter, Ryan Finnerty of Seattle, WA, Michelle and Richard hosted a gathering complete with pot luck dinner and a visual show and tell by all of the artists. This dynamic duo , in addition to their artistic accomplishments, brought to the center their evident flair for inviting connection and throwing a bash combining work and play.

This collaborative effort was an opportunity to relax, celebrate and share ideas. Ellen Kochansky wowed us with a succinct 7 image slide show that packed a punch aesthetically, conceptually and "spiritually," demonstrating 30 years of professional and personal evolution. Her concluding message invokes every artist to seriously consider what she herself contemplates in her work and life, "What do you most care about?" That is what will inevitably direct your work and life decisions. With other valued guests from the community and the exquisite Ms. Evelyn, artist and mother to Ellen, in attendance, we shared our work and personal stories. Thanks to all for a memorable gathering and to the Fritz's for organizing the event which is certain to become a Rensing ritual.