Looking at Art

Olszewski has always loved going to art museums and it has been a great way for her to gain inspiration to keep herself motivated. Looking at historic and contemporary art has helped her get out of her head when she gets stuck in her own practice. It pushes her to try new mediums and processes that she might have not thought of before. ​

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Here, Olszewski is looking at Watching Tides Rides by Titus Kaphar at the Toledo Museum of Art. She was encapsulated by the rarity of the painting frame showing through the back. It inspired her to take more risks in her studio and break the boundary of what a painting can be. For example, experimenting with different mediums and applications to create different textures. Coming from a very strict and representational art style, Olszewski constantly needs to remind herself of pushing her own boundaries as well. She has found more joy in experimenting and doing what she thinks is fun than worrying if others will like it. ​

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Studying art history has made Olszewski more aware of the context that comes along when she makes work. She is knowledgeable of how it may be perceived to artists and non-artists.  Although this doesn't change the work Olszewski makes it creates insight into how it is reacting in the world. ​