Springs Autumn – Study

Springs Autumn - Study, Oil on Canvas 8" x 10"

Disappointment – Part 1

A few weeks ago, I wrote that one of my works was to be included in a local event to help raise money for a cause which is “arts” related. For me, an artist, the draw was that this organization would, at their expense, create a print of one of my works and sell a limited edition of prints that evening (the number of prints would be based upon that nights sales). The event did not request that I subject my art to the whims of a “lower than flea-market” (usually referred to as “silent”) auction. The original work would remain in my possession. In addition, following printing costs, I would receive 25% of the sale of my prints.

From an artists’ perspective, the event was a disappointment. A major let down. I sensed a disconnect immediately upon entering the room where the event would be held. As I entered the banquet room, I saw serving tables lining the walls. These tables were for the establishments promoting their special drinks, oh yeah, some food was available too. The artwork was scattered around the room, placed upon easels in between each of the serving tables. The artwork was in the dark recesses of the room and appeared to be used as barriers to keep the attendees from getting back behind the serving tables. No notations or placards to let people know that these were prints or that they were available for sale. No notation concerning the name of the work nor the artist. The artwork appeared to be a distraction.  From our perspective, the artwork was disrespected. The art was “white noise” to the evening’s real purpose – an all you can drink for $25 Thursday night networking party.

The evening appeared to be a real success for the restaurants and establishments participating. There were some interesting drinks and a few of the food items were tasty. The host even had awards for fans favorite drink and fans favorite food. They did not have an award for fans favorite art. The powers to be channeled their focus to the drinks and food. The artwork served no real purpose that evening.

I met and spoke with a few of the other artists present that evening. I was curious whether they would echo my opinions. I quickly found out that the other artists fully shared my disappointment. I received some interesting comments and ideas from the other artists.

At home later that evening, I went through my evening computer routine of reading my e-mails, checking for feedback from this blog, and going to Facebook to see what my friends are up to. I used the power of the social network system to make my angst public. While on FB, I posted a very basic comment on the organizations site to let their friends know that I was disappointed. I placed a more detailed description on my FB site.

From my network of friends I received notations which ranged from “you should know better” to “sorry you had to endure that experience”.

We were recruited because this event promised to, “showcase the work of local artists”, only to experience our art work disgraced in this manner. Our work was not showcased nor given a little respect. Obviously we feel disappointed.

As artists, we are optimists. At times, to a fault. We create our work in solitude. We battle our emotions, fatigue, our medium, and our concepts and designs. Although we gain emotional support from those close to us, we take chances by putting our work on display for public review. We look for good venues at which to properly place our work for public scrutiny. We believe that the next painting will be “the” painting that brings us closer to our artistic goal. We believe that the next display or exhibition of our work will be “the” display that brings us a flow of sales and success. We believe that the next opportunity will be…you get the idea.

Oh well, maybe the next opportunity will be “the” opportunity.