Creative Collaboration

When I was asked to join a collaborative arts group on Facebook with other female artists several weeks ago, I was intrigued but apprehensive. I know a few of the women, most of which are in the San Diego area, and was impressed with their creativity. As an artist and art educator however, one does not often "allow" another artist to manipulate their work. My Kindergarten students are especially territorial. If you alter their work in any way, they act as though you violated them in some way:) I totally get their protective "stance" but I also understand that great minds and great artists...working together, might possibly produce great learning and awesome results. And so, much to my delight, that is exactly what has occurred.

Read below, group coordinator and artist, Grace Matthew's explanation of the group entitled :Provenance, History and Process.
I am part of the Barnum Animal subgroup.The experience has been wonderful,whimsical and pure fun! The amazing thing is, Grace has secured an exhibition site in Escondido, CA. where the results of our "play" will be displayed.These ladies can alter my work anytime! Check out the blog listed below for updates and images of works in process.It has been a pleasure seeking inspiration from like minds. There is much to be learned from being a good "sharer," :)Hey MH, I'll see you in CA!

"The Collaborative Art Group began on Facebook (FB) on February 22, 2009. The group has sixteen members and is divided into three subgroups; Abas Nightingale, Barnum’s Animals, Dreamers Garden. Most members are new to FB and are learning the logistics and nuances of posting, using the bulletin board and making comments on images. The group has officers with titles like Chief Pretty Officer, Social Secretary and Random Chaos for ALL Officer. Many of the artists know one another and more than half are based in the San Diego area. It’s an old-fashioned mail art group where every member of a group will work on each piece circulating in that group but this group has been updated with the digital community, provenance and enhanced communications that Facebook can offer. Artists usually work alone so creating a community forum were they can see images and comment on artwork is very gratifying. The members are involved on different levels some are missing in action while others are posting pictures, messages and commenting on the images daily. It feels like we're taking part in a Dada game or experiment. The group is closed to keep the size manageable."

Several of the members have agreed to participate in an exhibition to be hosted by the Escondio Municipal Gallery in 2010. http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=72301463221&h=BHrte&u=ntw1m