Art Markets

We just finished with one of the first outdoor art shows of the year, which was disappointing but enlightening. Our booth was next to a very nice person who was practically giving away her art — pieces that were both large and very nicely done. It is also nice to see people walking away from a show with a piece of art, but it does make it difficult to “make a living,” as one gallery owner told me, when people are selling at very low prices. Does it matter if the art is given away? If we want more art in the world, do we do whatever it takes to get it out there?

Keep smiling and say hello to someone today…

Toby

Civility

I am currently reading a wonderful book titled The Twilight of American Culture by Morris Berman. The premise is that America is in decline and currently looks a lot like the Roman Empire during its decay. This is not a new or unique take on postmodern (or late modern) US, but it does bring up the issue of civility. I am curious to hear from you about the difference between free speech and disobedience to the point of rupturing the social fabric of society without having any new answers.

As always, enjoy the world around you!

Toby

The Power of Art

Throughout the ages, the fine arts were controlled by the elite. While some artists tried to make political statements with their art, this was very much the exception to the rule. Then came the Impressionists, Expressionists, and the Dadaists. Well, can art make a difference? I am still trying to find my place in political art, and have done a few things in that area. Here is one piece titled “Shared Responsibility” in which Adam is holding an apple with TWO bites taken out of it. No mention is made of who took the first bite, and while Eve is sticking her fingers through Adam’s arm, this is more a surrealist moment than anything gender specific. Interested to hear about other pieces that have made you think about political and social issues.