The following is a letter by Dana Shearin, juror for the May Open Exhibit.

Dear artists and viewers,

I wanted to write and describe my process in selecting work for this May’s open call Art League show. In making selections, I tried to represent as faithfully as possible the diversity and variety of submissions. I chose pieces that brought me joy, charmed me with their eccentricity, or impressed me with their skill; I looked for pieces that made me uncomfortable and pieces that surprised me with their direct simplicity.

For those who submitted work that was not included, first, I would like to say that I had space for about 14 percent of the works submitted; there were many excellent works that I was unable to include simply because of space restrictions. I want you to know that your work is valuable and my choices were personal; the world needs more of your art and I thank you for making my job both difficult and enjoyable.

I hope this show leaves your soul well fed.

Best wishes,
Dana Shearin

About me: I spent my childhood on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. As the daughter of a watercolor painter, I was immersed in art making from a very young age. My formal education began at Interlochen Arts Academy where I built large scale abstract plaster sculptures, studied figure drawing, photograph and printmaking. I have a BFA from Alfred University’s New York State College of Ceramics. There I continued studying figure drawing, printmaking and began pursuing an interest in mixed media installation, sound, and ceramics. I also have an MFA in Ceramics from Cranbrook Academy of Art.

I have taught workshops and classes at National Louis University, Western Illinois University, North Central Michigan College, and The Evanston Art Center. I have an active studio practice at the Midwest Clay Guild where I have been now for more than 11 years, and have twice served as its president. I currently work with dogs and make art in Evanston, Illinois, where I live with my husband and our yellow lab.

The May Open Exhibit is on view through Sunday, June 4.