Elizabeth Murray overcame lengthy journeys to resolve paintings
Elizabeth Murray (1940–2007) turned a corner in developing “Bop” (2002–03) from a sketch into a full-scale painting by eventually hitting a low.
“When I start to really hate it, it starts to go some place,” said Murray.
“It’s almost as though you have to get down into that place where you absolutely hate it and want to rip it off the wall—rip it to pieces and throw it out—to start getting into it. It’s very strange.”
Deepen your connection to Art21
14 films reveal the origins of becoming an artist
Maryam Hoseini in her Brooklyn studio, 2019. Production still from the New York Close Up film “Maryam Hoseini’s Every Day Abstractions.” © Art21, Inc. 2019.
“I don’t think I’ve ever said to myself, consciously, ‘I’m going to become an artist,'” recalled Jessica Stockholder. “I just set about it.”
In our Origin Stories playlist, artists share the inspiration behind some of their earliest work, drawing connections to their paths towards becoming artists.
Apply to join our community of educators
The Art21 Educators program is now accepting applications for the 2021–2022 cohort. Are you looking for creative inspiration in your teaching? Do you want to gain a new community of collaborators? Is it time for your practice to be challenged by artists and peer educators from across the nation?
Submit your application by March 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Upcoming workshops for educators
Join Art21 for two virtual teacher workshops being offered this month.
The third and final program of a series co-presented with SFMOMA takes place Saturday, January 23, at 1:00 p.m. ET. Exploring three different aspects of the question—”What is contemporary art?”—each workshop encourages educators to think and work like artists, using thematic, inquiry-driven processes and strategies. The upcoming installment examines artists who question and investigate intersections of identity and power. Registration is free, but space is limited.
In “The Concept of Care,” a special program taking place on Monday, January 25 at 7:00 p.m. ET, learn about contemporary artists grappling with the notion of care in both their process and product. Consider how their ideas, actions, and results can serve as inspiration for future student lessons and in your own life. Registration is free, but space is limited.
Visit our education calendar for a list of upcoming workshops for educators.
Thank you for supporting our work
More than ever, online access to the lives and stories of artists is crucial, and Art21 is proud to share them with an ever-growing number of visitors including students, teachers, parents, and art enthusiasts alike from around the globe. If you are able at this time, please consider supporting the work of Art21. Every dollar makes a difference.
