Scott Adams once said, "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." We think that after seeing Caris Reid's beautiful work, that you'll be itching to keep all of her art. Residing in New York, the Boston University alum is gearing up for her next art show, "Diamond Seat" with fellow artist Amanda Valdez which opens on May 16th at Circuit 12. We visited her studio as she prepares for the event to talk about her artistic journey.
See why Caris Reid is a Daring Creative.
When did you decide to pursue your current career path?
It’s a path that’s been developing organically since I was a child. I’ve always painted, I’ve always loved to draw, I’ve always asked too many questions.
How does the city you live in influence your creativity?
New York pulses with energy, you can feel it the moment you touch down in an airplane, there’s a palpable electricity that either feeds you or eats you. Most of us have experienced it both ways. I love New York for the amount of culture available, and the sheer volume of talented, innovative thinkers here. I spent 5 years working as an arts writer and contributing editor for Dossier Journal, and I couldn’t have asked for a better platform to meet other ambitious creatives. It’s actually how I met Amanda Valdez, who I have a two person show with called “Diamond Seat” at Circuit 12 opening May 16th. We met while both working as arts writers and pursuing our own painting practices. Artists like Amanda keep me on my toes, and it’s been a total pleasure working on this body of work with her.
In your words, what does it mean to be a “creative”?
To put it simply, it’s creating, or mutating, the existing model. We either take life as it comes to us, or we perform alchemy. I truly believe that everyone has the power to shape their reality, as new agey as that may sound, and artists just do it in a very literal, physical way by creating images and objects.
What do you consider to be your biggest achievement to date?
I’m always so focused on my current or upcoming project, it’s difficult to look back at past achievements. Maybe my tenacity and resilience? I would consider both achievements. There have been many moments where I could have given up, or chosen a safer path, but I’ve always had enough delusion, optimism and strength to believe it will work out in the end.
How do you deal with critics?
Truthfully, I’m very sensitive, so not easily! But there’s tremendous power in surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family.
What do you do to get through your day?
Meditation has become a really important part of my artistic practice and sanity. I start most of my days by grounding myself mentally and always do a mediation before I start painting. I want to be conscious of what energy I’m bringing into the work.
What is the best part about your studio?
I love my studio. The light is really soft and peaceful.
Do you have any advice about creating the best possible work environment?
Having an order to the space helps. I try to keep the studio tidy, and only have visuals hanging that pertain to the body of work I’m engaged with. My most recent paintings were deeply influenced by mandalas and having influential books like “The Spiritual in Art Abstract Paintings” and “Mandala, The Architecture of Enlightenment” was helpful.
Is there something happening in your career that you are looking forward to? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
I’m incredibly excited about “Diamond Seat” my 2 person show with Amanda Valdez opening on May 16th. And I have a 3 person show in July at SEASON in Seattle with Matthew F. Fisher and Ryan Schneider.
Finish this sentence:
I feel most powerful when: A painting is going well
My biggest frustration is: cold weather
I couldn’t live without my: friends and family. and coffee.
For more information on Caris, including her upcoming show with Amanda Valdez, check out her website here.
For more on Caris and Amanda's show, visit Circuit 12's website here.
Photos by Clement Pascal.