ecnyc13: Like Minded Individuals

One of the more unique aspects of this trip is the ability to meet active artists in their studios or at galleries in which their work is being represented. At these studio visits, we are able to pick the brain of each artist regarding anything from their choice of medium, where they draw inspiration from, their struggles as an artist, and even learn what their favorite movie is.

Our art ambassador and professor Marc Dennis always reminds us as students, and as people to "surround yourself with like minded individuals." These visits to artist studios, such as Mark di Suvero, Chris Yockey, Noah Becker, Grace Roselli, and Ken Solomon provide us with that opportunity to be exposed to like minded people, no matter how long or short these visits may be. To hear these individuals passionately discuss their lives, their work, and and their various experiences is so eye opening and educational. Because these are practicing artists in New York City, one of the world's biggest and most diverse art communities, they have years of knowledge to impart onto us students eager to learn. Many of the artists we are lucky enough to meet and speak to were once in the same position as us students trying to take the art world by storm. We share the same ideals, interests, and concerns they once did. Having the chance to be around these like minded individuals is both intellectually and artistically stimulating as it is comforting. Despite the common aloof facade the art world can often present, the artists we have had the privilege to meet have offered nothing but support and encouragement along with their tricks of the trade and other tips. By connecting with these artists in their studios, we as a group have been inspired in one way or another just listening to like minded individuals who remind us that we are not alone as artists or as people.

-Maggie Zurbruegg-Ramey