For The Love Of It

We do art because we love it. But it's difficult when you see what passes for art these days. What's worse is that not only that it passes for art but it ACTUALLY sells. In fact it may well sell more than what someone may consider "real" art. True I don't always understand what passes for art even when it's considered by true critics and well-educated people as REAL art. We had an exhibit where someone painted pallets different colors. One would be yellow, another blue, etc...and really, I didn't get it. Perhaps I'm not educated enough. I didn't see the meaning in it other than a strictly utilitarian object was spruced up and painted a pretty color. The utilitarian becomes art? Maybe that was the idea. But really, who does this speak to? That niche is rather narrow, Im sure.

In cases like that I think I'm either not educated enough or I thank God my head isn't shoved so far up my own butt that I've become the ultimate snob. I'm somewhat on the fence of what "real" art is because I think everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinion and taste but I also think they'd want to elevate themselves. Low brow or high brow sometimes something can be labeled art and it's just crap on a canvas really. I am aware some people may feel that way about my art and that's OK, because I don't aim to please everyone.

I do art because I love it. I have a real job where I make my living and I do my art because I'd die without it and it would be nice to make some money at it but I know I'm not going to get rich doing this. I may pay off a bar tab with a couple of pieces or donate a piece or two to a worthy cause. It's mine to give, sell or keep as I choose. It's my sanity, so I'll do with it as I please.

As far as self-promotion, I'll try anything once maybe even twice. I'm not afraid of the work and it is frustrating when you see craptacular work selling and you're sitting there left twiddling your thumbs. I know the frustration like the back of my hand. Trust me on this. But I also know I cannot rely on selling. I have to be happy and thankful for what does come my way. I have to be secure in the knowledge that my work is good and that I am making an honest effort to sell my works.

So what works? All of it and none of it. The only thing you can really do is have loads of determination and faith.