WATSONVILLE — Local artist and curator Janet Fine came up with the idea for her latest exhibit over a year ago. Back then, she had no idea what a challenging, unusual experience it would be.
“My Mother Thinks I’m a Great Artist” opens at Pajaro Valley Arts on Aug. 9. Fine asked 20 local artists to find art they made when they were young, answer questions about what inspired them as a child, and then respond to it with a new piece.
“It’s been an adventure,” Fine said. “It brought up a lot of memories and feelings for the artists — both good and bad.”
When asked what inspired her to put together this project, Fine said she was interested in seeing how childhood experiences influence adult artists’ work. Additionally, promoting the importance of art education and self-expression for young people.
“The arts are constantly under siege,” Fine said, noting the cutting of funds for arts education in public schools in recent years. “We hope this exhibit will remind people how important it still is.”
The featured artists’ ages range from their mid-20s to 70s, and their creations span numerous artistic mediums.
One artist, Lynda Watson, expressed her excitement over the show as she set up her piece, entitled “Toi and Abbie.”
“This is such a unique idea,” she said. “I’m glad to be part of it.”
Watson came across a collection of doll clothes she had made in fourth grade stored in the back of a closet. In response, she drew a series of detailed sketches and adorned two dolls in the garments.
Another artist, Jamie Abbott, had found some of his old ceramic pieces he’d made as a child. For his new piece, he put together a multimedia sculpture.
“It’s been so interesting to see what people come up with,” Fine said.
Fine and others at Pajaro Valley Arts have also taken up experimenting with kids’ art toys, such as spirographs. They hope to incorporate some sort of interactive component to the exhibition for kids.
“We have a very diverse art community here in the Pajaro Valley,” Fine said. “We want to celebrate that, and at the same time inspire kids to create.”
“My Mother Thinks I’m a Great Artist” opens at Pajaro Valley Arts, 37 Sudden St. in Watsonville, on Aug. 9. An opening reception will be held on Sunday, Aug. 13 from 3-5 p.m. The exhibit runs through Sept. 24, when there will be a closing party held from 2-4 p.m.
For information, call 722-3062 or visit pajarovalleyartscouncil.org.
