The Case for the Polymathic Artist

I spent a great deal of time looking for answers when it came to what artists like me are called, but nothing fit. You could use different mediums, but they all had to be present in one project, such as 'multidisciplinary artists' or 'mixed media artist’. Working in one medium would feel like being condemned to loving only one thing. That’s it, only one. Of course it sounds ridiculous, because it is.

So what is a Polymathic artist? From a fantastic blogger Eric Tecce, it refers to 'artists who possess knowledge and skills across multiple domains, and is 'generally defined as someone with expertise across many subject areas, rather than just one. Therefore, someone who is highly skilled in multiple aspects of craft making, design, fine arts, product creation, writing and photography.'

Many of my followers ditched me when I began switching back and forth through mediums, but I tried not to get discouraged. I did it for love. Love of fabrics, clothing design, storytelling, sewing, sculpture, photography and yes, painting. I do it because I’m compelled to do it. That’s what makes me an artist.

But here’s what I didn’t ‘know’ explicitly: 'there is some evidence that developing diverse disciplines can fuel creativity and productivity.’ I certainly felt it. After an exhibition the idea of more painting felt so heavy, as though I couldn’t squeeze out one more idea. But switching mediums was a breath of fresh air.

'There is now a growing recognition that, when concentrating on any complex endeavour, the brain often reaches a kind of saturation point, after which your attention may fade and any extra effort may fail to pay off. But if you turn to another, unrelated activity, you may find that you are better able to apply yourself. Shifting between different kinds of tasks can therefore boost your overall productivity.'

The article goes on to say: 'new research shows that there are many benefits of pursuing multiple interests, including increased life satisfaction, work productivity and creativity.’ So the ‘why’ of the decision to move back and forth through mediums felt much more like being chosen than choosing. I tend to lean into what my heart calls me to lean into.

And…one thing informs the other. Working with color and paint informs the delicate nuance of colors and textures in assemblage sculpture. Making soft sculpture plushies sparked my love of short form storytelling, and clothing is a deep form of visual storytelling connected to memories, emotions and self-expression.

I’m here for all of it.