Over the course of this month I’ve learned a lot about career choices in the art world, and what it means to be an artist in the purist sense. When I first started I was a little clueless as to how much hard work would be incorporated and what it takes to work in the studio. At home I get anxious and I want everything to happen quickly, but making sculptures it takes patience and time to let things dry and set. Another thing I had to get used to was the fact that John and Paige had no wifi at their house! So I actually had to read and write things, crazy. But it made me realize how much I enjoy peace and quiet and how much I enjoy not having the distractions of social apps. Being an artist is hard. Sometimes you have to do things you don’t want to do, or things happen that you have to deal with and then move on from. For example, we were planning on leaving for another show in Virginia but John didn't have enough inventory and made the decision to hold back from going and instead be prepared for the next show. This happens a lot in the art world and it’s best when you can go with the flow. I also learned that passion is everything. If John and Paige hated what they were doing it probably wouldn't turn out so well. When you have passion for what you’re doing it will have positive after effects. John admits that he can get tired of doing his work over and over but he never gets tired of how they turn out, because they truly are beautiful pieces and people all over the world are always in awe of his work. Over the course of this internship I’ve learned how to make my own leaves and also how to work in the art world. The reason I say that this is hard work is because I was exhausted after one day at a show and John and Paige were still going. What most people don't see what goes on before a big show. We have to arrive at least a day early and set up. That means, loading up the van, unloading the van, and taking about 4 hours to set up and another 4 hours to take down… if you’re lucky. In the past, when I was at an art show I didn’t think once about how long it took for someone to set up “just a tent” or put up “just some art”. This took way more than I thought. This is someones lifestyle. After an art show you’re right back in the studio making more art. It takes patience, and willpower. I am amazed and proud to be with two artists like John and Paige. They are both awesome mentors and treated me so well. I learned a lot and I hope they can be mentors in the future for other students. Now that I have an idea of this type of art work and a big part of the even bigger art world I will take this information to continue in the world of art. I’ve always enjoyed making art and I think going to college to discover more about art and what I can create is an important piece to my life. I was introduced to artists from everywhere and each one gave me a little more passion to stride forward into art. Always be authentic. Explore, learn, create. Relax! Have passion. And don't be afraid to do what you want. Thank you John and Paige, for everything.