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Upside of Morning
Think of the song "Morning Has Broken", grab a cup of coffee and sit by
a quiet Northern Wisconsin lake. Keep an eye out for a deer or two
appearing on the other side. No better way to start the day...
Whatever Happened to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Artist Statement?
“Hey, Michelangelo, could you send your artist’s statement so we can
get an idea of what kind of work you do? We have this blank ceiling
we’d like you to look at”.
Seems like artists have to have “Artist Statements”. It’s a fact. I
even have one. Do brain surgeons have to have “Brain Surgeon
Statements”? My butcher, does he have to have a “Butcher Statement”?
Our art is visual. Does it need a verbal definition too? I started
collecting artist’s statements once. What a bunch of verbal hogwash!
Hip boots are in order. Get real! Here’s an artist statement... “I’m
fond of eating, I sell pictures to support that habit.” Or, “I paint
because it’s easier than working for a living”.
Now then, I do admit that it’s a good exercise to define your
objectives and decide what you want to accomplish with your artistic
efforts. Even put it on paper. Keeps you focused on making a concise
visual statement when painting. And, like it or not, someone is going
to demand your statement. But, please, keep it short.
My Artist Statement.
I am a realist. My artistic philosophy is found in my paintings. I
strive for visual rather than literary depth. If my paintings need
interpretation, then I have failed as an artist and communicator.
I believe art is communication. I want the viewer to see a subject, as
I see it. Therefore, the message or subject, however simple or complex,
must be stated in a manner that crosses any people related barriers. My
language is reality defined and enhanced by color, draftsmanship and
composition, within the confines of the medium.
Short version... I paint what interests me when I feel like it.
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