Art Battle Pittsburgh: A Milestone in My Painting Journey
Last night marked a significant chapter in my artistic journey—I competed in Art Battle Pittsburgh! Not only was it my inaugural competition, but it also celebrated the first sale of one of my pieces. While I may not have won the title, the experience solidified a milestone in my painting journey, one that saw me evolve from begrudgingly attending a three-hour class at a community college, to crafting pieces in my parents' garage, and eventually, confidently sharing my art online.
The Journey to the Canvas
The road to this point has been transformative. My entry into the world of art started somewhat reluctantly; a basic course intended to fill my schedule became the gateway to a newfound passion. The garage at my parents' house became my studio, a sacred space where I could experiment, create, and find my voice. Gradually, I gained enough confidence to share my work on social media, setting the stage for broader exposure.
The Battle on the Dance Floor
The venue for the battle was nostalgic—the center of a dance floor where I had spent many nights, but this time transformed. Instead of a disco ball or DJ booth, the spotlight was on us, the artists, turning our brushes and canvases into instruments of intense expression. For 20 minutes, the crowd's energy was palpable, every stroke and sketch contributing to the crescendo of creativity that filled the room.
my blank canvas
Community Support Amidst the Storm
Just before the doors opened, a flash flood warning was issued for much of the Pittsburgh region. Despite this, my friends from the neighborhood showed remarkable support by turning out in force. Their engagement with the event went beyond mere attendance; one friend was so captivated by the artworks that they ended up winning the bid on two pieces from the same artist. The artist was thrilled—so much so that she sought out my friend to ensure they captured the moment with a photo together. This gesture highlighted the deep connections and memorable interactions that art can foster.
A Canvas of Competition and Camaraderie
The competition was fierce but friendly. I was surrounded by incredibly talented artists, each with their unique style and approach. One competitor painted fervently on her hands and knees; another wielded charcoal with precision, while a third artist creatively used paper towels to dab and smear paint across the canvas. It was a spectacle of pure artistic endeavor.
As I clutched my 18"x24" canvas, drawing it close with every brushstroke, I felt a deep connection to my work, almost as if it was a part of me. This technique, which seemed natural in the moment, was a physical manifestation of my immersion into the art.
The Aftermath and Looking Ahead
Post-battle, my canvas, adorned with a tag bearing my name, stood proudly against the bar wall, flanked by the vibrant creations of my fellow competitors. The scene resembled an eclectic collector's estate sale, yet for me, it felt akin to a display at the Musée D'Orsay.
I'm thrilled to announce that I've taken the next step by submitting one of my pieces to be shown at Art All Night in Pittsburgh on April 27th. This event promises not only to broaden my exposure but also to integrate me further into the vibrant arts community of Pittsburgh. The experience has also sparked a new creative venture—I'm inspired to start a new painting series, details of which I'll share in future posts.
A New Beginning
The Art Battle was more than a competition; it was a celebration of progress and a testament to the supportive and inspiring community of artists I'm proud to be a part of. As I prepare my work to be "gallery ready," I'm both nervous and excited about what lies ahead. But one thing is certain: this journey, with all its challenges and triumphs, is only just beginning.
Thank you to all who came out to support, and to those who cheered from afar. Your encouragement fuels my creative spirit, and I am eager to see where this path leads. Stay tuned for more updates as I dive into my next series and continue to explore the vast, colorful world of art.
