Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Sauer.
Victoria, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always loved art. I’ve always made art. I started down the art elective course in high school, beginning to make something of my childhood hobby. And then choosing it as my major in college is where the commitment to this life really started. I graduated with a BFA in Painting & Drawing from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. It was there that I first began to understand art on a deeper level beyond just technique and craft. Throughout the four years of a rigorous but rewarding art program curriculum, my oil painting practice developed around the idea of consciousness, between dreams and reality, and it has continued along those lines ever since. After graduation in 2020, I soon moved into Stove Works–a Chattanooga artist residency, gallery, and organization. I’ve maintained a year-long fellowship with them, and it’s just been the greatest experience one could ask for. I could gush about it for hours. But as that comes to a close this month, I am heading into this next unknown chapter of my life with great wonder and anticipation.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve been really blessed, especially with the opportunity that has been Stove Works. Along with some amazing professors who guided me through my time at UTC. But college was rough. I think it probably is for most everyone. The biggest struggle in actuality is taking care of yourself. Eating, sleeping, trying to enjoy the other beautiful parts of life outside of school. I’ve always been a bit of a type A neurotic workaholic perfectionist, so stepping away from academia was hard for me and presented many personal challenges against my mental health. But in the end, it’s all about finding balance. Continuing my art career post-undergrad on my own accord has been so great to experience.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Something I love sharing since it’s a bit de-railed off the visual art path is my love for the music community as well. While I’m not a musician myself, I have a deep passion for music. And so, my college roommates (also visual artists) and I turned our house into a DIY music venue of sorts, called The Submarine–this was all pre-COVID, of course. It was one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve ever taken part in, and we really do hope to bring it back to life once it’s safe enough to do so. We held shows once every month, showcasing four local bands from all over the southeast each show. We met so many wonderful musicians, made so many long-lasting connections, and our personal favorite–we watched others, friends and strangers, experience pure joy within the walls of our home. It survived on this beautiful sense of community and support.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Circling back, everything is about balance. So all my lessons, like my work, lie on a double-ended spectrum. Don’t take critique so personally, not everyone’s opinion takes precedence over your work, but also listen thoughtfully and genuinely consider the criticism as well as praise that people give you before blindly accepting all of it. Stay in touch and intertwined with your art community, but also branch out and see what else is going on around you. Never stop trying and keep pushing, but also please give yourself a break. A break could be a few hours, a few months, or even a few years. As long as you come back.
Contact Info:
- Email: victoriasauer@icloud.com
- Website: victoriasauer.com
- Instagram: @victoriasauerart
- Other: @thesubmarine4004
Image Credits
Joshua Simpson Victoria Sauer
