SMILE

Some days all you can do is just smile when you realize the plan you had is not the way it’s gonna go down. When I proposed this project and the timeline in which I wanted to complete it, I did not take into consideration the amount of time that would be spent getting the community art organizations on board. 

In my mind, I thought I would just phone an arts council in any given town and say here’s my project. I’d like to come this month. I would love it if you could assist.  This is not the way it has rolled out.

Everyone I have spoken to has been quite eager and has offered help but like most organizations, events need to be planned long in advance, and sometimes decisions have to be made on a board level, and many times events that are on the horizon will take precedence over, helping me organize the logistics of a new event. And don’t get me wrong, I understand it, especially at this time of year where arts organizations are dealing with concerts, winter solstice events, and Christmas markets. Not to mention the people that work for these organizations have their own family gatherings, staff parties, and their own children’s concerts to attend.

My initial plan what’s to have one workshop completed in November and one in December. I can see that that’s not going to happen. I was not announced as Alberta’s artist in residence until October 16. Getting a workshop ready for November was out of the question. Once I got up and rolling and started sending out emails I realized that December was also a write off. 

I’m realizing now that all 10 workshops are going to happen from January to August 2026.