The Artistic Journey of Chris Beacock: Canberra RAW Artist Showcase Review

Last Wednesday (30July) I took part in a RAWArtists showcase, and it was incredible experience and night. Nerves started to kick in during setup, mixing with the nagging fear that I had forgotten something vital, it gave way to excitement as I finished setup and had the lights going. I took to drawing to take my mind of the impeding opening, and put the sketchbook away as more and more people started to file in through the door. Its a strange feeling when they start looking through your work on display, as I started to feel exposed, naked in front of them, vulnerable to not only their opinons but to their smallest signals in body language. This sense of vulnerablity carries with it a sense of freedom though, and combined with the relief of seeing some friendly faces arrive, soon gives a sense of exhilaration, which combined with a couple of drinks last the rest of the night.

One thing I think is unique with events like the RAWArtist Showcases, is that you are not alone in your exhibit, and there is a real sense of bonding between the artists showcasing as your all mostly going through the same mix of emotions. It sort of felt to me like we were together sailing a strange ship to port.

A big thanks go to the Organisers, and photo and film crews that put so much work and effort into keeping the show running smoothly, and are still working hard to get the promotional material from the show together.

I'd highly recommend the experience to emerging artists of all disciplines.

I'll have video and photos for the show as they become available, but if you like CanberraRAW you'll see them as they're released.