I’ve just returned from a party held at the South Square Centre. Although not the summit of sociability it was a thoroughly worthwhile experience. I had conversations with three other artists, and a chance to get to know the new junior curator at the Centre. It did make me think (as I have often done in the past) about the importance to us as artists of simple sociability.
Being an artist can be a very isolating experience, in the nature of the case. As on other occasions I have found it very valuable to break out of that isolation. Of course I have other opportunities for socialisation during the week. On Tuesday I enjoyed a long walk in the country with two friends with whom I would climb were it not for the condition of my shoulder. It was a good experience. We didn’t talk about art, though.
A plan is being hatched for a group of us to get together simply for this purpose, which will be nice if it comes off. It has been said that organising artists is like herding cats, but I’m optimistic.