2018 is the year I continue to push myself. To do things, that is. Not off a cliff, which was almost the case for 2017 (hooray for therapy and medication). I applied to the 2018 East Lansing Art Festival as an Emerging Artist (and got in!), to Cartoons Crossroads Columbus again (I made the wait list last year), and to the 2018 Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence program (AIR).
Yes, I applied to spend two weeks at Isle Royale National Park as their resident artist. I sent in my application, art samples, and other materials earlier this month (the deadline was mid-February). I even made a watercolor comic for my submission, see it at the bottom of this post.
What Is the Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence Program?
If accepted to the Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence program, I would spend two weeks at Isle Royale National Park this summer. I would get use of the Dassler Cabin (a rustic cabin with no running water or electricity), and free transportation to and from the island on the Ranger III ferry (it’s a six-hour boat ride, y’all).
The concept of the program is, an artist will use the time at the park to get inspiration for works of art (painting, photography, writing, or even music). The artist then uses that inspiration to make work about the park, the wildlife, etc.
From the Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence page:
Today’s artists continue to document the landscapes of our national parks with contemporary approaches and techniques, drawing upon the site’s scenic, natural, and cultural elements for inspiration. These artists translate the park’s purpose, as a place of pleasure and preservation, into artwork that bring people new insights, enjoyment, and understanding.
All that is required of me is to turn in an original piece of art to the park within a year of the residency, and give a 45-minute program one evening during my stay (I can talk about making comics for 45-minutes, easy).
Why Did I Apply to the Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence Program?
I didn’t apply looking for a free two-week vacation.
Nope.
I applied to work. I applied so I can spend those two weeks focusing on my art. Specifically, my cartooning, comic making, and using watercolor for both. I have a full-time job, and combine that with other adult responsibilities (maintaining our house, screaming at bills, talking to the cats), finding time for art can be a challenge.
When I can put the time into focusing on something, I get a lot done (look at this year’s Inktober). Isle Royale is isolated and rustic. There won’t be any kitten pictures or Fallout video games to distract me. I doubt we even get cellphone service there (I’m counting on this).
Those two weeks of focus could pay huge dividends in terms of the skills I will sharpen and learn.
Plus I might get to see a moose or two–which is a plus! Assuming it doesn’t run me over.
What Will I Work on If I Get Accepted as Artist-In-Residence?
I want to make cartoons and comics about Isle Royale. Specifically, I want to do all-ages comics hoping to get kids interested in the island and the National Parks as a whole. I know there’s an audience for that kind of thing.
Now, this doesn’t mean I will have a finished book or something after two weeks. I’ll probably spend my time on the island sketching out ideas, shooting photos for reference, and taking notes. I know I’ll crank out some finished pieces while I’m there though, likely some small watercolor cartoons.
I asked my dad to come with me, and I know the two of us on a trip together for two weeks will generate plenty of material for jokes and stories (mostly at my expense).
When Will I Find Out If I Was Accepted?
According to what I read, it could be as late as May 1st before I get word. I did hear it could be sooner, as judging is supposed to start in March. I found a forum where a poster said those who were not accepted found out well before May 1st.
As far as my chances, well…
The Isle Royale Artist-In-Residence program gets around 100 to 150 artist applications every year for only three to four spots. Competition is pretty steep. I’m hoping my comics background will work in my favor, as it might be something new for the program.
I even whipped up a full-page watercolor comic as part of my submission materials! I included five other samples, including some single panel watercolor comics I haven’t posted anywhere else yet.
Wish me luck!
