We recently connected with Casey Engel and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Casey , so great to have you on the platform. There’s so much we want to ask you, but let’s start with the topic of self-care. Do you do anything for self-care and if so, do you think it’s had a meaningful impact on your effectiveness?
In the midst of a fast-paced life, I’ve found that prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining my effectiveness. For me, self-care involves intentionally carving out moments of slowness, particularly at the start of my day. I’ve established everyday rituals that allow me to infuse a sense of mindfulness into my routine. A typical morning for me begins with savoring a cup of coffee, engaging in stream of consciousness writing, and indulging in a few games of solitaire with my cherished deck of vintage cards. These rituals help me navigate how reactive I must be to the needs of artists, collectors, and colleagues, enabling me to approach each interaction with a greater sense of clarity and presence.
Additionally, while I may not always have the energy to embark on early morning walks, I’ve discovered the importance of incorporating movement into my routine later on. Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll to unwind after work or pausing for a midday walk during a studio session to alleviate feelings of stagnation, these moments of physical activity serve as invaluable opportunities for rejuvenation and mental clarity. By prioritizing self-care practices that promote mindfulness and relaxation, I find myself better equipped to navigate the demands of my professional life with a renewed sense of focus and energy.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an interdisciplinary artist working across textiles, ceramics, and printmaking, my practice is driven by freedom, joy, and sorrow. I approach each piece with virtually no preconceived plan, allowing the materials, process, and my own curiosity to guide me.
Recently, I had the privilege of opening my first solo exhibition at Converse University in Spartanburg, SC. Titled ‘The Trapps,’ this exhibition holds deep personal significance as it serves as an homage to my maternal family. The exhibition will be on display from February 1-29, 2024.
In contrast to the spontaneity of my artistic endeavors, my professional role as the Exhibitions Coordinator at Blue Spiral 1 gallery demands meticulous planning and organization. In this capacity, I am responsible for co-curating and managing the entire behind-the-scenes process of exhibitions.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Firstly, finding my ‘North Star’ has been essential. This guiding principle serves as a compass, influencing every decision I make. While this point of reference may evolve over time, having a clear focus has helped me navigate opportunities such as exhibitions, residencies, collaborations, and rejections. My personal ‘North Star’ is freedom, which shapes my choices and drives my pursuits. I encourage those early in their career to identify their own guiding principle, whether it is a word or a sentence, and let it inform their path.
Secondly, I’ve learned the importance of letting go of perfectionism and embracing self-compassion. Making art is inherently vulnerable, and striving for perfection can hinder risk taking, creativity, and growth. By being gentle with ourselves and accepting imperfection as part of the process, we allow room for experimentation, surprise, and discovery.
Lastly, I advocate for not taking oneself too seriously. While the work itself demands dedication and seriousness, it’s crucial to find joy and lightness in the artistic process.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself overwhelmed, my immediate recourse is to turn to lists. I meticulously jot down tasks in my notes app or sketchbooks, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Being a true “finisher,” I thrive on the satisfaction of completing tasks, making these lists invaluable for visualizing my workload and prioritizing actions. Embracing a one-step-at-a-time mentality, I focus on accomplishing each task, relishing the sense of progress with every checkmark. This method not only boosts my motivation but also effectively alleviates overwhelm by instilling a sense of organization and control amidst chaos.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.caseyengel.net
- Instagram: casey__engel
Image Credits
Image credit for headshot: Clark Hodgin Rest of image credits are me
