Creative Conversation: Connie Solera with Elle Billing
While I was growing up, my mother often quoted the scene from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, where the Knight guarding the Holy Grail states “He chose… poorly,” after the villain drinks from the wrong cup, ages to dust, and is no more. She usually said this after we kids did something we would later regret.
Several years ago, I quietly ended a relationship with a mentor when I recognized that I had, in fact, chosen poorly. For the last few years, however, I have had the distinct privilege of working with Connie Solera. I am happy to report that this time, I chose wisely.
Connie doesn't just mentor our technical skill; she mentors our entire artist's soul. I have been held as I dove deep into my art and my self, alchemizing some of my most vulnerable moments into artworks I am able to share with you.
Connie really wants to see her mentees thrive. Not only does she mentor our creative process, but she also hosts the PAINT FEARLESS Exhibition I've been prattling on about! and still there's more! Connie has interviewed me about my art, my inspiration, the color blue, and so much more! I am thrilled to be sharing our interview.
You can watch the video here, or open it in a browser tab and listen to it while perusing the gallery. This video has auto-generated captions in English, and I have provided a transcript of the conversation below
Connie Solera is the Real Deal. She co-created alongside our cohort, taking us from the dreamspace of envisioning our bodies of work through to exhibition, promotion, artist talks, and even a discussion panel. Do make sure to get over to the gorgeous exhibition before it closes on August 6, 2024!
This project is supported in part by a grant from the North Dakota Council on the Arts, which receives funding from the state legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.
