ANNA BOOTHE 81 GL
Anna Boothe
Based in Zieglerville, PA
Tell us about some of your main sources of inspiration.
For the body of work I’ve been building for a number of years, I’ve been inspired by the general notion of compassion,….how to achieve and practice it, as well as how to create icons that both capture my perception of it plus to design “tools” that provoke it. Fodder for this investigation also comes from my research into Buddhist iconography and objects different cultures use to promote reverence, protection and “luck.”
How have you dealt with the challenge of maintaining a creative practice that feeds your soul but also helps pay the bills?
I’ve spent several decades as both a PT and FT educator and then as a curator, all the while doggedly maintaining my studio practice. About 4 years ago, I took the leap into being a full-time freelancer and now support myself from the sales of my work (galleries and trade shows), commissions and some private and workshop instruction. What’s different is that when I had a regular paycheck, I had more freedom to explore making the sculpture I feel most passionate about. Now, because I solely rely on my work for income, I’ve modified my focus to create work that’s more “accessible” conceptually and more affordable, while relegating the more conceptual stuff to lesser time slot. It’s ALWAYS a shot in the dark what will happen financially, but so so wonderful and heartening to be practicing what I preach.
Any recent press, exhibitions, achievements or relevent news you’d like to share with us?
My most recent news is the receipt of the “Best in Glass” award at the Smithsonian Craft Show in April. It was my first time participating in this show. And, I have an exhibition coming up in 2021 at the Racine Art Museum (WI) – a large glass and mixed media installation created with my collaborative partner, NYC area sculptor Nancy Cohen.