When I think of creative synergy, I remember experiences I had while teaching, when we acted as a team, and came up with ideas we would never have reached on our own. In those days we called it “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
Artists’ Workshop does this through both individual and group experiences. Our annual show is the obvious result of us working together. Our shows have a great reputation, are well attended and are the result of each artist working in their own style. It is the variation of techniques, mediums and subject matter that make our shows so successful. It would be difficult for one artist to pull off a show with such variety.
Individually we support each other both consciously and unconsciously. We offer each other feedback, talk about our struggles, and learn from watching each other. There is always an ear to listen and a wide range of support. We cherish our individuality and believe it’s one of the strengths of our group.
Friendships have resulted amongst us, as shown by our Plein Air Painting in the summer (volunteer attendance). Over the summer months we meet in each other’s back yards to paint each other’s gardens. This is a more social time than our studio practice in the winter, and it gives us an opportunity to get to know each other better on a personal level.
Cooperation is high in the group and there is always a volunteer to take on any job that needs doing. In this way, we move forward, sharing the load and continue our own individual artist’s paths.
Artists' Workshop Saskatoon 