Finding Space

GVSU Sculpture Space

As an art student, one of the greatest priveldges I have is access to an infinite amount of space and material. I have any tool I could ever need, for any project, at my immediate disposal. I am restricted in my art-practice in absolutely no way be materials and resources. I never have to compromise good ideas simply because I have no way to manipulate the material in the way I need to. I can cut, sand, bend, melt, harden, attach, strengthen, cover, clean any material I need to in order to fit my conceptual idea.

GVSU Woodshop Space

The whole point of being a student, of  course, is to be able to learn as many new technologies and techniques as possible. A lack of materials or tools would be a great hinderance on the learning process, and quite frankly, not very much good work would result. The only problem with being provided with all the tools, all the time, is that once graduation day hits those tools are gone. Students are left with an abundance of knowledge, but they must start from scratch with regards to actually applying their skills.

Dinderbeck Studio in Grand Rapids, MI

This point becomes very important not only for tools and materials, but for space to work and for peers to work with. If possible, I think that students should reach out while they are still in school in an effort to direct themselves after they graduate. I have recently begun this process myself by joining a studio group in Grand Rapids. By joining a group of artists who all work in a shared space, with shared tools, I have solved the main problem of graduation - how to make use of the skills you have just worked so hard for.