Then I got the studio and I was so happy, I was elated. Aha! Elation means joyfulness and exultation of the spirit. Elation Art Studio, it seemed perfect. Exactly how I felt about my situation and the real purpose behind my work.
However, one cannot remain elated for long and live. It is a somewhat manic extreme, the opposite of depression. Like every other human, I swing back and forth depending on the cycles of the moon and the circumstances of my life, and much of the time I spend in between. The art I make reflects that. Elation seems absent from my experience at times, and I pondered, at length, the choice of the name and the possibility of my failure to live up to it's claim. Would it limit my artistic expression? Would I feel I had to modify my work to be happy all the time? If so, that would feel false and unnatural.
After much rumination, I realized Elation Art Studio is a symbol, a symbol of hope, and an affirmation. It is a worthy goal for me to aspire to represent joyfulness and exultation of the spirit in whatever context my human condition is able. It is not so much a limitation but rather a focus and an intent.
With that determination, I was able to file my fictitious name statement this week with the county clerk, and hold my head high in the spirit of the truth to which I bear witness with my artwork. Even in the darkness, I will look for the light with expectation and assurance. Through the day to day events of normalcy, I will seek opportunities to expose and express beauty and praise.
After a seemingly long labor and delivery, Elation Art Studio is born. Yeah, baby! Welcome to the world.