CONVERSATIONS IN LIGHT WITH DAN CORSON

THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: Artists as Alchemists: Just as an alchemist transforms led into gold, do you feel that being an artist relates to that of being an alchemist? Do you view the artist journey and your creative expression, as alchemy?

DAN CORSON:  Historically, the study of alchemy was not just about purifying “base materials” into “noble” ones (e.g.: lead into gold), but it was equally focused on the transformation of the soul from “lowly” survival-based life into the state of “gnosis” or an “enlightened being” complete with immortality. Now I know that I am not personally immortal, but through my artwork, I do transform elements into new and surprising objects and experiences; some that will extend well beyond my life. It is that special “ah ha” moment or transformation in experience that I strive to infuse into all my artwork. So in once sense, that striving to evolve and challenge myself through my artwork embodies the spirit of alchemical transformation.

THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: The Evidence of the Journey: Artists are often labeled as “stars.” Just as a star radiates light and the planets then reflect this light, do you see your work as an artist like that of a star? Is this “light” that stars radiate merely the evidence of this journey of becoming a star/learning to radiate light?

DAN CORSON:  It is all about communication: the transference of knowledge, information, perspective. I see this “radiating light” not as the artwork, or the artist, but as the experience of communicating that unique message that the artist may want to express without words (or between the words) to another. The light is that evidence or vehicle for that communication.

THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: The Courage to Create: When an artist is not “creating” it is often labeled a “creative block.” How do you navigate this space, how do you find the creative spark in the dark, and does it require courage to create from this unknown space? Describe this process.

DAN CORSON:  My unblocking process starts with “knowing your craft,” then I need to “state the question clearly” in my head and finally “ignore the problem” while actively working on something else. I find that if something does not take a lot of direct concentration (like taking a long road trip) it will engage the practical side of my brain to drive, and then will inspire my creative side of my brain to dream, gestate, invert and resolve the problem.

 

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