Artist's Statement and Related Stuff:85 years old and going strong while struggling to keep up with the new communication technology. On the plus side; anyone my age who began writing with pen nibs and ink wells appreciates no longer being subject to the use of rubber erasers, carbon paper, snail mail, and so on......But of course, whether we write with a feather pen or a word processor - It is always about what we say and not about the means with which we say it so...I will do my best to make the read worthwhile.
A little note for my fellow octogenarians; The “Except ye become as children" admonition is worth the effort to fully comprehend. Second...Here are some great quotes from persons that know a lot more about art than I do: This one from Thomas Merton: "Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time." The seeming contradiction contains a promise that involvement with Art in any of its venues whether it be paint, a tin whistle, in the kitchen, or sculpture, will help us to get lost and then......“find ourselves”? Your true self....unique and exciting...not a product of society’s conditioning. And what do we "lose"? Relief from an overdose of “woe is me me me me.” Some more quotes...This one from Oscar Wilde: "Art is the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known." Wilde may have been a bit far out in some areas but his life was definitely the epitome of individualism. Unfortunately, his extremism exacted a price that I would shy away from. Here are two quotes about Art. I prefer the first but there is something to be said about the second: "Art is a collaboration between God and the artist, and the less the artist does the better." Andre Gide And: "Painting, n.: The art of protecting flat surfaces from the weather, and exposing them to the critic." Ambrose Bierce Here is a quote that may be sub-titled "The Art of Escapism" which can provide the modus operandi for persons with limited financial resources or just in need of a change. "Art is the only way to run away without leaving home." Twyla Tharp And: And there is a sign that there is hope for the world.....with art venues leading the way. Ex-president Bush has put his pistols away and has taken up painting.
|