No! This happens a lot when you're an artist. Labor for exposure is a popular one. But I wasn't expecting it to happen in communication with a dedicated live/work artist collective I'd applied to in San Francisco. I put in an application to Project Artaud about 8 months ago. Twice now they have emailed to ask for free labor for their events. This time I offered to help thinking I should be political, and ingratiate myself (something I never do and don't believe in). Immediately no. My craw had the biggest ick stuck in it! It is predatory to pull labor from a list of people who are hopeful for space when you don't have any and don't know when you will. So I asked... "..., can I assume that if you are calling in help from prospective applicants that there is available space on the property?" Response: "No, it is a chance to get to know the community. There is no implied studio available at this time." I told her I'd be happy to allow another applicant the opportunity to get to know the community as I'd spent two days with them during their spring open studios, but I'd still help if their were no other offers. Her: "Fine. I will take you off the list. Sorry to waste" your time. (Methinks a bit of shadow in her SnapBack as I was very polite and still said I'd help.. she knows on some level) ----- I just couldn't do it. The median rent for a 1 bedroom in San Francisco just hit $4000. I've been priced out of my city. I have to commute to paint in my studio at about $10 a day for public transit. I'm tired. Artists who have low rent and workspace in the city should not be preying on hopefuls for free labor. A better system could be created. This is lazy, Animal Farm type shit. There have been so many moments lately for me to draw a clear line in the sand for myself about my standards. No regrets, I'll figure out something else.

Anne Brierley @anne-brierley-7522 painter printmaker sometimes teacher Welcome Anne!

this is a painting Im struggling with atm - its 70 x 100 cm & has gone though a few iterations - feels very illustrative to me and tho its a composite of different elements rather than a direct copy it all feels tight, feel a bit teenage book jacket.. I don't hate the sheep. Im still fighting with the background. some eyes on it would be appreciated.