“…if it doesn’t, it’s inventory”.
This nugget came from one of my gallery dealers yesterday. He’s a gem - totally politically incorrect and prone to sharing his opinions with any and all - and I always find myself laughing out loud in a conversation with him. He was, of course, talking about the current economy’s effect on art sales. But he was also talking about what motivates people to buy art, and threw out another quote while he was at it:
“Subject matter trumps quality”.
He noted that there were very few ‘pure’ collectors - people who buy art based on quality, rather than whether the painting depicts their favorite species.
So - these statements are probably enough to incite a few comments. Whatcha think?
Entries (RSS)
July 16th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
Wow… that is a can of worms! From a dealer’s perspective, I’d say your friend is absolutely correct… but thankfully most of us aren’t dealers.
From an artist’s point of view, things like this are always a bit more difficult to nail down. If you need to sell paintings to make a living (as most of us do), there has to be a balance between painting what you want and painting what you think will sell. If you’re lucky, there will often be some overlap in these areas. If you’re not so lucky, then it becomes necessary to “prostitute” your skills on occasion, in order to make a living.
I could go on for pages!!!!!!!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Jim - feel free to! This is an interesting topic. From my point of view, art is one of those unique lines of work in which we struggle with ‘purity’ - eg, I may want to paint what I want to paint and damn the market, but if it ain’t selling I ain’t eating. Amazing how, when you’re hungry, you may find that what you want to paint is what sells :-).
And why is there this philosophical divide between business and art, anyway? In most lines of work, what you do will be driven by a market or an organization - yet somehow, art is viewed as “corrupted” if the artist allows the market to influence his/her work.
July 17th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
“…then it becomes necessary to “prostitute” your skills on occasion, in order to make a living.”
How well I know! I’m a wildlife artist. So, why did I just finish a commissioned painting of a Chinese fisherman (the client had a carved wooden statue and wanted it turned into a painting)? Because I like to EAT!
Frankly, tho’, it was kinda fun going off the beaten path - and reaching back to the days when I used to paint portraits (many moons ago).
July 18th, 2009 at 11:31 am
Excellent topic and points, I’m a wildlife art too, so agree with all that has been said, yep to live you have to eat, but if we’re lucky we get to choose commissions that inspire us and feed us too - in an ideal world anyway! ha…
July 19th, 2009 at 11:07 am
“If It Sells, It’s Art. If it doesn’t, it’s inventory”.
Hmm, all this time I thought I was doing art when in fact, it was all just inventory.
I guess that makes me an accountant rather than an artist?
Julie, perhaps you should rename your workshop:
“Capturing the essence wildlife inventory workshop — aka “Julie’s Boot Camp for Inventoryists (sp?)”
July 20th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Larry, Larry, Larry….. Nah. You’re still an artist. If you make art, you’re an artist, regardless of whether you ever sell anything. Remember, this statement is from the *gallery’s* point of view - they’re in the business of selling, after all.
Marti, sometimes commissions like that can inspire us in ways we don’t expect! Frankly, being given the opportunity to use one’s creativity is a happy thing regardless of subject (generally speaking). Heck, I’ve labeled myself a wildlife artist for a while…but horses are my first love, and now rodeo, which means I need to paint people too - it all stretches me and helps me grow.
But back to this notion of ‘prostituting’ one’s skills. Not sure I agree with the idea. F’rinstance, as a computer engineer perhaps I’d rather write a program to simulate, oh, dog agility…but the company I’m working for is paying me to write printer software. Is that prostitution? I’m thinking not. Why is it any different with art?
July 21st, 2009 at 7:37 am
julie,
I agree with the comment on prostitution.
On a “prostitution scale” from 1 to 10, I’d say most artists are probably a 1 — except those who are using their skills to produce propaganda and I would not really even consider them artists(how’s that for a convenient definition?).
The irony is that most artists would probably rate themselves much higher on the “prostitution scale”, thinking that if they are not doing precisely what they are most interested in, they are “prostituting” themselves. I think this perception is largely due to the fact that artists are very introspective and self-critical by nature.
Any time you feel you are “prostituting” yourself with your art, take a quick look around you — at the world of politics, sports, hollywood, “defense” contracting, TV and print “journalism”, etc. Many of the latter have not only sold their bodies but have sold their very souls. And the ones who have done so never even think twice about what they are doing (or they would not continue doing it).
I’d have to say that the vast majority of artists look like angels with halos in comparison.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:38 am
oops, I left off “wall street bankers” from the prostitutes list.
Please forgive the oversight.
July 21st, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Well, when you put it that way - I guess we really need to consider the fact that we are STILL making ART - no matter the subject. I am an ARTIST - whose primary subject is wildlife but I sometimes paint horses and sometimes landscapes…and occasionally other subjects like Chinese fishermen. How’s that? Made ME feel better
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:42 am
Off topic, but I just found this site (US Fish and Wildlife Service National Digital Library), which may be of some interest to people here.
July 22nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Larry, great find! I bookmarked it. Could be helpful when my own photos are missing a detail or other material that I need.
But back to the prostitution thing…Marti, I’m glad you feel better! you should! there’s nothing wrong with being in the BUSINESS of art. We don’t necessarily ascribe impure motives to businesses trying to sell things and make a profit, as they wouldn’t remain in business long otherwise - why should it be any different for artists? We have skills developed over years that are worth something and can be put to use in many different ways - nothing wrong with that!
July 24th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Copying images off the internet, gee Santa will leave coal in your stockings along with a lawsuite *s*. Seriously, I do a great deal of reference shots just for this reason. After I depart to the great studio in the sky I envision my kids having a giant garage sale and buyers wondering “what the heck was she photographing roadkill for!?(*”
Anyway, I do have a question for you. I’ve just entered a respected show and (excuse me while I beat my chest in mourning” I was not juried in. I thought my paintings could hold their own in the competition, but *deep sigh here* I think there is more to these shows than meets the eye? Perhaps I should have sprayed my entry with aftershave? Is rejection just a gender thing or is there something we “newbie’s” need to know about these art shows….hmmm, I think I hear laughter through the internet. After you have picked yourself back up and sat down in your chair again perhaps you can share some enlightenment with me? I would appreciate your comments before I start pitching paint brushes down the river. Thanks Julie!
July 27th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Judging (jurying) is subjective and most jury panels (if properly conducted) aren’t given the name of the artist so how can they tell the gender? There are shows I will never get in - and those I have a much better chance to get in. I have found that wildlife art ain’t the most popular subject with a lot of shows/fairs/exhibits. But then there are shows that appreciate the talent BEHIND the art - as well as the subject of it.
Everyone thought Fred Astaire was such a great dancer. BUT Ginger Rogers did everything HE did - AND she did it BACKWARDS and in HIGH HEELS!
(And I hope you are all old enough to know who I am talking about!)
I live in Central Illinois - there are a lot of “art snobs” in my fair city. I get rejected each and every time for two big local art fairs. So - I go elsewhere.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Deb, I so totally relate on the reference thing. My husband is a patient man - puts up with dead songbirds in the freezer (if I find them dead and still in good shape, I’m going to use them for reference!).
As far as juried shows go…sigh. That’s a huge topic in its own right. I actually wrote a semi-humorous post about it some time ago that has a reasonable amount of truth in it (see the “Compleat Idiot’s Guide to Art Shows”). Have a read, then come back with questions…
July 29th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
I read the Guide, Julie, and I agree with the responses about your writing abilities! Very Funny! I especially enjoyed the “rejection” letter - having received my share of those!
I have a HUGE problem submitting images without signatures on them - especially if they will appear in an online “gallery” if accepted. This was a problem ($$$) for Arts for the Parks and now Paint the Parks does not require that images be submitted without signatures. Instead - they mask them out before judging (or so they say).
My thought is to change my signature to Stainsby Smith (two family names) or add a “y” to the end of my first name in place of the “i”, having experienced the blatant bias of at least one organization (unnamed). It is foolish to throw away any more money to be re-juried with no prospect of a different result. As for the “juried” membership shows - even if “accepted” for membership, you have two chances of being accepted into their show your first year - slim and none!
What really smacked me upside the head recently was the favortism playing out in the gallery that represents me locally.
Is there some time frame one needs to give themselves so that buyers, galleries, shows, etc. become familiar with our work? I’ve been told that you have to do a show (IF you can get in) for a good 3 years before substantial sales or you are given a display space somewhere other than the bathroom hallway.
Recently, I find myself trying to decide whether or not to just go back to the office. At least I’m aware of the “glass ceiling” in the corporate environment.
Or - is it that at some point one must come to realize that not all dreams come to fruition and after a lifetime of dreaming and it ain’t happening. . .???
July 31st, 2009 at 8:57 am
Marti - wow, there’s a lot of philosophizing I could do here. My experience is that the (western, wildlife) art world is definitely biased, though unevenly - some shows/galleries much more so than others. Southwest Art magazine dubbed it the “leather ceiling”.
It’s also a very challenging time to be a gallery dealer or a show - sales everywhere are way down, and I suspect galleries/shows are going to be extremely conservative right now…meaning going with proven money-making artists.
If it is your dream to be an artist, then you must pursue it. How your work reaches an audience may play out in other ways besides traditional gallery/show/festival routes. You might find that you do want to go back to the office for a while, at least part time, while you continue nurturing your dream. Or perhaps you’ll find a venue and audience that really resonates with your work. Time will tell.
July 31st, 2009 at 10:04 am
Thanks, Julie, for the words of encouragement. It is a rather up and down roller-coaster - this being an artist thing. And as artists, we are our own worst critics. Been looking for part time work - and running into the AGE bias thingy. My experience in THAT regard is that after hiring some gum popping babe who can’t SPELL secretary, much less BE one, HR guys finally come to their senses!
As for the time thing - I’ve only been a “full time” artist a little over a year. Sometimes I guess I need to remind myself where I was a year ago and where I am now.
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Marti, this is a hugely challenging year to have become a full-time artist! it WILL get better. Just not sure when.
August 6th, 2009 at 6:54 am
Thanks for the feedback! Marti, I work part-time (trust me there isn’t such a thing) to support my “art habit”…no, actually my passion. Age does play a factor in employment, but say a prayer, network and keep sending out your resumes. In the meantime, it helps to remember and be grateful for having the gift to paint. Not everyone has this, and there are those (bless their hearts) that actually appreciate us! I find it sometimes difficult to overcome “mental exhaustion” after trouble-shooting all day and pick up my brushes and paint. That’s where passion overcomes the physical/mental and I remind myself that I know I am an artist!
Keep painting, and thanks again Julie and Marti.
August 6th, 2009 at 7:30 am
Deb, what a lovely post! and a GREAT reminder to all of us how lucky we are to have this talent, passion, gift, whatever…for art.
August 6th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Thank you all for your words of encouragement! I left a full time long term career in the legal field in May 09 to do art full time. Shortly thereafter, the bottom fell out of the economy and it’s been a struggle ever since for a LOT of folks.
I have a book - “Coaching the Artist Within.” I should spend more time reading it and practicing what it preaches. Starting with, “I AM an Artist”; “I am an ARTIST”; “I am … an Artist.” “I…am an ARTIST.” Blessed with a gift.
August 6th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Exactly. Couldn’t say it any better.
August 11th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
*s* Marti, a number of years ago I worked full-time as an illustrator/journalist/photographer and I remember when I started out Iwas told, “you’re not a writer, artist, photographer until you publish something” When it appeared in print, I was then told, “you’re REALLY not an……until you’re paid big bucks for it.” At that point I decided, I am what I know in my heart I am and I really don’t need anyone else to confirm it. If you have the desire to create, nothing will passify that until you actually create. Be open to opportunities, learn to take criticism objectively and contructively (you will know bull when you hear it!) and learn. I can’t imagine doing anything else even when our hearts sometimes get stepped on. It also helps to realize that others are going through similar emotions, experiences and we’re also sharing growth together.
Julie, thank you so much for your humor, honesty and help. Sadly, sometimes when individuals achieve success they may forget the others who are following. Thankfully, you don’t fall into that category. Please keep posting, I really do benefit from your experience and suggestions. Thanks!
August 11th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Deb, what a lovely post! I agree fully with you - you are what you decide you really want to be. If you passionately desire being an artist, and you work and practice and create…then you are. Regardless of whether the work sells, or for how much, or any other silly external measures someone else might impose. YOU get to decide that you want to practice art!
Every now and then a collector or someone else asks me why I do art. I answer “for the same reason I breathe.” - because I gotta. I have no choice in the matter - I MUST do it in order to LIVE, fully and happily.
August 19th, 2009 at 10:30 am
Okay - so the art fair in Colorado was a disaster. BUT - things are looking up! On the way home, I nearly ran over Big Horn Sheep in the road! Needless to say, there was a photo/sketch session (much to my son’s dismay-he just wanted to go home). AND I just received word that two of my paintings were accepted into a juried exhibit in Jackson Wyoming during the 2009 Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival! WOO HOO!
June 20th, 2011 at 1:28 pm
Small wooden sculptures are a part of wood carving art that has been common from ancient times.
October 18th, 2011 at 11:31 am
You make blogging look like a walk in the park! I’ve been trying to blog daily but I just cant locate writing material.. you are an inspiration to me and i’m positive quite a few others!
October 18th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
Almost all I can point out is, I don’t know what to really say! Except obviously, for the amazing tips which have been shared within this blog. I’m able to think of a trillion fun methods to read the articles on this site. I do think I will ultimately make a move making use of your tips on those things I could never have been able to manage alone. You’re so thoughtful to permit me to be one of those to benefit from your helpful information. Please recognize how great I appreciate it.
November 15th, 2011 at 2:11 am
In Mozilla Firefox how do you customize the toolbars to different colors and styles?
November 15th, 2011 at 9:49 pm
Your websites has the same post as the second author but i prefer your better
November 23rd, 2011 at 8:22 am
Thank you a lot for giving everyone remarkably breathtaking chance to read from this website. It is always very superb and as well , packed with a lot of fun for me personally and my office friends to search your site not less than 3 times every week to read through the new guides you will have. And lastly, we’re actually amazed for the unbelievable creative ideas served by you. Certain 2 areas on this page are unquestionably the finest we have all had.
January 4th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
Recherche annuaire free sur annuaires-gratuit.com, referencement annuaires gratuit .