Jealousy & Recognition

In Amie Mcnee’s book “We need your art” she wrote something which has really been driven home to me over the past couple weeks. She talks about how jealousy (or envy), that ugly green eyed monster, can actually be a really helpful emotion. Jealousy can show us what we want for ourselves in an otherwise tricky landscape to navigate. It’s worth checking in with yourself to make sure you know which bit is making you jealous, but I can understand what she means. 

There’s been a lot lately which has given my green eyed monster an airing, mostly however the RA announcements. The Royal Academy hosts a wonderful summer exhibition, giving hundreds of people the chance to exhibit in a prestigious event and a feather in their cap. I’ve applied for a few years, but the rejection can smart and I have to budget how many competitions I go in for per year. This year I went for two and didn’t get either, so seeing others I know announce they made it is hard. Bittersweet is a better term because I’m both proud of them, but wish it were me. 

Recognition is still special, it helps validate that I’m not the only one who likes my art. I know that one day I would like to have my work exhibited amongst other great contemporary artists and have my eye on a few specific galleries. The only answer of course is to keep going, keep painting, keep sharing and keep applying (and budgeting! Those applications all seem to come with a price). 

It’s funny as it seems to be very much associated with the arts that you must pay for your opportunities. I remember sympathising with a friend who was an opera singer, we were talking about her having to pay yet again for the chance to audition (usually for travel and board, but other costs too). It seems to be if you want to do that something extra it will cost you. I hope for those without disposable income there is support and help, the loss otherwise is too sad to think on.

I hope i’ll get a chance to go and see the RA this year, and go look at the amazing art that deserves their recognition this year. I’ll get a special kick seeing Lara Cobden’s Diaphanous Dreams as one of her other pieces currently decorates my kitchen. If you get a chance please do go and wonder around. It is simply marvellous.