Artist Interview: Racquel Keller

RS: How do you find balance between exploring new ideas and refining existing ones in your creative practice?
RK: I'm not sure there is such a thing as balance. For me, it feels more like an ebb and flow. While I am working on existing ideas I am refining and deepening my skills, perfecting techniques, and pushing for a higher level of craftsmanship. And during that process, there are little deviations from the initial plan, creative sparks inspired by something I see or hear. This deep dive is then offset by time for rumination and exploration of potential new ideas through research and sketching. This approach ensures continual growth in both creative expression and technical proficiency. The whole process is so interrelated and codependent that it is almost hard to pick them apart. However, I find that changing my location helps keep things moving forward. I think the change in location helps reinforce my intentions (studio for physical work and other places for idea generation and sketching.) For Instance, I am currently working on a series of pieces for a solo show in October and this work happens in my studio. But while I am working on bringing those pieces into the world, I am sketching ideas for a future series in my sketchbook. I normally do this at home, in a cafe, or between teaching classes.

RS: What role does curiosity play in fueling your creativity?
RK: Curiosity is the key to fueling my creativity. Curiosity drives my desire to explore, learn, and understand. I have always wanted to understand the why and how of things. In my creative process, curiosity leads to experimentation and sparks the exploration of new ideas. It helps me break free from conventional thinking and routine approaches and can serve as a catalyst for further exploration and artistic growth.

RS: How do you handle self-doubt or imposter syndrome as a creative individual?
RK: Self-doubt or imposter syndrome is a familiar passenger. It is common and knowing that helps put it in perspective. I think it can only take hold if you are constantly comparing yourself to others. So, I put on blinders and really just focus on running my own race. If I find myself getting distracted by thoughts of self-doubt I normally ask myself if what I am thinking is actually true. Setting realistic expectations and celebrating small achievements can help build confidence and mitigate negative self-perceptions. Engaging in regular reflection on past accomplishments and progress can reinforce a sense of competence and value in one's work. Each month I take a page in my sketchbook and write my list of successes for the month. I call it tracking my triumphs. It helps me really capture those little small actions that add up to progress.

RS: Can you describe a time when collaboration with others led to a breakthrough in your creative process?
RK: Recently, I spent two weeks as a resident artist in France at Chateau Orquevaux working on a group show with 3 other creatives. We had met at the same residency two years prior and wanted to work together. We were fortunate enough to return to work together on our project at the Chateau. We had been discussing the project for the better part of a year via Zoom and so I had a fully formulated plan for my time at the residency. But once I got there suddenly I was inspired to go in a whole new direction and ended up creating two video installations in addition to my more traditional type of work. I think working with a group and really sitting and stewing in the creative juices together expanded my creative language. Such collaborative moments often spark breakthroughs, pushing the work beyond its original limitations and expanding the boundaries of what's possible. My time with these powerful women artists allowed me to welcome a new medium that completely transformed my approach and outcome. With the right people, collaboration creates a safe space to do daring things. It not only enhances the final outcome but also enriches the individual creative practice by providing fresh insights and learning opportunities.

RS: How do you capture fleeting moments of inspiration before they vanish?
RK: Capturing fleeting moments of inspiration requires finding a quick and accessible method to record thoughts before they disappear into the ether. I have 3 ways that I do this:
1) I keep a notebook or sketchbook handy for jotting down ideas, sketches, or notes.
2) I send myself texts when it isn't convenient to break out a notebook or the such.
3) I use sticky notes and notecards.
These litter my studio table and walls. This is by far my favorite way to capture those moments of information. They are like little flags that propel my work forward.
Regularly reviewing and reflecting on these little notes of inspiration can help to integrate them into ongoing projects or spark new creative directions. The key is to have a reliable system in place that works for you. This ensures that these brief flashes of insight are preserved and accessible when needed.
Find more information and artwork by Racquel at: Racquelkeller.com
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