ELAN is proud to support our members as they explore their own art-making abilities. Please check out Michele Sinclair’s experience as she creates artwork for Growler Underground!
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I resisted displaying my writing and artwork online for a long time. Even when I had no other choice but to create online portfolios for class, I did so begrudgingly. I loved my printed portfolio and all my other tangible artifacts. I looked away stubbornly (but with growing envy) as more and more art friends crafted expertly designed sites. Inspired by what I read and saw, I began to write more in my journal and make artwork that made me feel good. Around June, the vibrant online world pulled me in, and I signed up for canvastomatodesigns.blogspot.com.
As it turns out, blogging feels good, and it helps me organize the many facets of my artistic self into one place. Those who may be interested in commissioning a piece from me can easily see what type of work I enjoy making without the hassle of meeting me in person to see my portfolio. Friends and family across the country can read about what I have been up to, and I feel empowered sharing myself with others in this way.
One local business owner was recently directed to my blog by a mutual friend and ended up contacting me about making work for his new space, the Growler Underground in Springfield, OR. He took a look at my art, we emailed about the wall space he could provide, and I got to work. I wanted to make art that was unique to not only a growler restaurant and bar, but to the greater beer loving culture of Eugene/Springfield. Several sketches later, I decided this design encompassed my vision well, and I found a block of linoleum and began carving.
I pulled several prints and made a couple of other pieces, including a painting of hops on a map of Springfield. Installing the work was the most difficult part, as I needed to hang paper on loose knit burlap. Thankfully, my work was installed with a little teamwork and creativity. Thanks, Growler Underground, for making this experience so positive!
I’m thankful for such a wonderful opportunity to show work, and happy to see individuals taking steps to revitalize downtown Springfield. Make sure to check out the Growler Underground at 521 Main St., Springfield, OR.
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My growler prints are up for sale for only $25! Feel free to call or text me at 541-740-3276 or email chelesinclair@gmail.com if interested.
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Michele Sinclair is an Arts Administration graduate student with a concentration in Community Arts Management. She has a BA in Studio Art and Minors in Art History, Anthropology & Biology from the University of Oregon. She researches arts curriculum methods most beneficial to middle and high school students in helping frame difficult conversations and bridge cultural differences. She cuddles with her puppy, Maddie as often as possible.