calumet artist residency

In August I spent two weeks working at Calumet Artist Residency, located in a small house on top of a dune in Gary, IN. 

"Founded in 2012, The Calumet Artist Residency strives to accentuate the significant local natural beauty while acknowledging the troubling relationship between industry and nature."    

I spent a lot of time walking and exploring this contrast between the gorgeous Indiana National Lake Shore, which is a short walk from the residency, and the half empty industrial town of Gary. I was glad to get the chance to  meet the good folks of Gary at the farmer’s market, on the beach, at the local brewery, and at an art opening - all  people staying and working to make Gary a more livable and beautiful place. 

I had planned on making a few day trips to Chicago but I couldn't tear myself away, so I just took the hour train ride in once to go to the Art Institute. Being in a quiet new space where I spent most of my days working outside cleared my head and gave me a sense of perspective on where I am as an artist.  If I consistently make work then evolution slowly happens - but in day to day life it can be hard to see the subtle shifts, ebbs, and flows.  Having two weeks of uninterrupted time to make art in such a different place was a gift to my studio life back home in Memphis.

Thanks, Kate and Corey, for sharing  part of your special world with artists and writers, and thanks for all you do for Gary.  The world needs more people like you.