Welcome to Where the Light Gets In, a student exhibition that celebrates the beauty and resilience found in the creative journey. Inspired by Leonard Cohen's evocative lyrics, "Forget your perfect offering. There is a crack, a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." this exhibition invites you to explore the transformative power of embracing authenticity in art.
In our polished, often sterile world where new and shiny are prized above all, Creating with Courage challenged students to view their art through a different lens. They were encouraged to seek out the unique moments of vulnerability and the spontaneous sparks of inspiration that arise when striving for authenticity rather than flawlessness. By letting go of the need to create something 'perfect', these artists discovered the freedom to experiment, to play, and to push the boundaries of their self-expression.
The works on display here are born from bravery, creativity, and a deep commitment to self-expression. Each piece is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the artists, who have transformed ordinary materials and ideas into extraordinary creations. They were encouraged to let go of the pursuit of perfection to embrace the unexpected turns and the unpolished edges that inevitably arise in art. By doing so, they discovered a deeper connection to their work and a more profound understanding of what it means to be an artist. The result is not only a collection of well-constructed and thoughtfully conceived pieces but also a celebration of the process itself - one that values exploration over certainty and authenticity over flawlessness.
As you navigate this exhibition, I invite you to savour every detail and every bold choice and to appreciate the light that shines through each crack, both in the art and in the lives of these courageous creators. This celebration extends beyond those whose works are exhibited; every participant in the course has engaged in the brave act of creation, proving that making art, whether showcased or not, is a heroic and invaluable endeavour.
I am so honoured to be a guide and to witness the brave, magical work that has emerged from these artists. This exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to their courage, originality, and the light that shines through their creative cracks.
Enjoy your journey through Where the Light Gets In, and may you find inspiration in the luminous beauty that emerges from every unique and authentic expression.
Clarissa Callesen
Course: Creating with Courage - Adventures in Fibre Art with Clarissa Callesen