Multi-State Multi-Year Multi-Artist Art Project with Marilyn Artus (#30)

The fact that we are approaching the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the19th Amendment did not escape the attention of Oklahoma-based mixed media artist Marilyn Artus. For years, Marilyn had been wondering what art project she could possibly do that would be grand enough to match the significance of the occasion. She came up with one—Her Flag—and joins the show to talk about it. It includes collaborations with artists and public performances in each of the 36 states that passed the amendment. After more than a year on the road, Marilyn will complete the enormous flag.

 

Marilyn talks about what inspires her to honor this occasion. She also shares how we can get involved.

 

In this interview, you will hear about:

● The research and passion that drove Marilyn into this ambitious project.

● Why it was important to Marilyn that the project be open to anyone who wants to celebrate, regardless of race or political affiliation.

● Why Marilyn knew if she wanted this project done, she needed to do it herself and not wait for anyone else.

● How Marilyn selected the 36 women artists in each state to work with.

● Why it was important to Marilyn that she pay the artists.

● The decision to make the flag at Rainbow Pennant, a business in Oklahoma that already employs women to make American Flags.

● A glimpse into the states Marilyn will travel to throughout her epic journey. She will start in Wisconsin in June to travel the path of ratification, and end her trip in Tennessee on August 18, 2020, the anniversary of the date on which the 19th Amendment was ratified.

● The physical details of the 18 x 26 ft flag, and how Marilyn plans to sew everything while she is on the road.

● The team Marilyn has hired to help her work on Her Flag, including one very important full-time project manager.

● The systems Marilyn used to keep their internal and external communication flow organized.

● The need for artists to not be so attached to their original idea that they miss out on something better.

● The decision to feature women of color and focus on women like Ida B. Wells, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Sojourner Truth.

● The part of the journey that is most uncomfortable for Marilyn, but why it’s important that she do it.

● Marilyn’s big dreams for the finished Her Flag.

 

 

Resources:

Blog post for notes and comments: https://artbizsuccess.com/artus-her-flag-podcast

Her Flag https://herflag.com

CaFÉ https://www.callforentry.org/

Basecamp https://basecamp.com

Book: Fresh Lipstick: Redressing Fashion and Feminism by Linda M. Scott https://www.freshlipstick.com/

Music: Wildermiss