Day 13/14: Final thoughts on vulnerability, the Open Studio, and meeting the locals of Westerly, Rhode Island

What a great day! I had the room set up to exhibit all the work I created during this residency, and throughout the afternoon, a steady stream of familiar faces passed through. Chris counted sixty-five people, which is way more than I thought would come. There were regular park characters, a few local friends, and new acquaintances I’ve met while staying here. The people of Westerly really support their artists!

To be honest, events like this always make me feel a bit nervous and vulnerable. Sharing my artwork means revealing something deeply personal. My thoughts, curiosities, and questions are all on display. While I greeted visitors and chatted about the work, I felt the usual undercurrent of self-doubt that tends to surface during these moments. Most people have no idea what’s happening in the background of an artist’s mind, while others are quietly absorbing the results of so many private hours.

This kind of vulnerability is my least favorite part of being an artist.

But the informality of this event, the cozy, unpretentious setting of a cottage in the middle of a public park, helped quiet some of that inner noise. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful. It reminded me that I don’t need sterile white walls or high expectations to create meaningful connections through art. Wilcox Park is so special to so many people, and I enjoyed hearing about their connections from childhood to today while simply walking their dogs daily. Speaking of dogs, a greyhound named Mango came to my open studio. I was so excited and told him all about Obi, our sweet greyhound.

One thing I’ve realized for certain: I want more experiences like this in my future art practice. I want to keep learning while creating. To stay open, present, and in conversation with my surroundings. That, to me, is where the growth really happens.

Here is a great quote from Tyler Spangler, which sums up this experience for me.

“I don’t create for the result, but for the feeling I feel during the process.”

We wrapped up the day with dinner alongside Laura, Brett, and Marci, then strolled down to River Glow, an annual celebration featuring live music and glowing campfires. If you know me, you know how much I love a good campfire!

These past two weeks have been a time of growth and fresh inspiration. I’m heading back home to Charleston, South Carolina, feeling recharged and full of new ideas. But not before one last adventure, catching a Red Sox game in Boston. Go Sox!

I’ll leave you with a sweet moment from last night, when a local named Tom rode by on his bike while we were relaxing on the porch. He cracked a few jokes and said, “Keep smiling, Tina!”