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Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

A Conversation

After having what I believe was the best art education possible, by freeing my eyes to SEE.

And living, experiencing, and thriving, as a young adult, in belly of Fine Art at that time, (Manhattan in the 1950's).

I decided not to become a serious fine artist.

because I felt I nothing to seriously say

So I turned to architecture



After a number of productive years in architecture, as a lark, I presented to the public, a "clever" do-dad I had created, (vulture sculpture made from a mussel shell and a crab claw)

This resulted in all sorts of responses......From utter disgust to overwhelming praise.....From complete dismissal to those questioning themselves as to why they are attracted to this non-museum quality, shellcraft , versions of vultures.

Without intention, I created a dialog, a conversation.

For, I now had SOMETHING TO SAY.....Which in a nutshell is " DON'T TAKE ANYTHING FOR GRANTED"

And for the next almost 50 years, I took my "show" on the road, having great face to face conversations with all sorts of people with all sorts of beliefs

Buy Art Online


So, I pose these 2 questions:

1. *Do you think it's important to have your art / images say something ?

2. If so, do you think it's ever possible to have a true conversation about your art on the internet, especially on POD sites?


*Note: This question has been reworded 12:30PM 7/26

Reply Order

Post Reply
 

Tibor Tivadar Kui

2 Years Ago

1. Yes
2. Not sure, it depends on the nature of the art..many cannot be truly perceived by simple imagery...so cannot be truly discussed.

 

David King Studio

2 Years Ago

1. No. I don't really have anything important to say with my art but some viewers have an emotional response to it, some enough to want to live with it, that's enough for me.

2. Depends. I don't think it's an issue with mine.

 

John Twynam

2 Years Ago

1. It might be important to have something to say, but that "something" doesn't really have to be profound. E.g. for pretty much all the pictures I take, the only thing I'm really saying is "I liked this scene".

2. I agree with Tibor in that it depends on the nature of the art. For photography, I'd say yes because it's a two-dimensional medium, so it transfers well to a computer screen. For other forms of art, probably not so much - some of them are three-dimensional sculptures, which may require the ability to walk around and view from different angles to get the full experience in order to "properly" discuss. Even paintings fall somewhere in between the two; they're primarily a two-dimensional piece of art, but from what I understand (which admittedly isn't much when it comes to paintings), the brush strokes can produce a third dimension that may or may not be part of what the artist was saying.

 

OBT Imaging

2 Years Ago

1. Right time right place for some forms of art, Yes, for sure.

2. Depends on the person you are conversing with. Given the choice, best to discuss art in person and in real time. So leaning a lot towards No.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

On the on-line sites where I sell tangible art, conversations can result....but the give and take takes time and are rather stilted.

On POD, conversations seems to be almost impossible.

 

OBT Imaging

2 Years Ago

Hello Roger , aye , same here, I didn't grow up typing, it was talking in live real time back when I was learning how to communicate! and it's not even that long ago and it feels like longer, especially in between waiting for a reply on here LOL

 

David Bridburg

2 Years Ago

Roger,

I have had a lot to say artistically or creatively.

I have had that dialog in this forum. Yes some of it was hard on the feelings. I did persist.

Dave Bridburg
Bridburg.com
Post Modern Gallery

 

Milija Jakic

2 Years Ago

No, you dont need to say anything, just create ..

 

David Manlove

2 Years Ago

Artist's speak visually. It is a form of communication. It is a language.

Viewers interpret as they see fit, or are able, regardless of the artist's intention.

If there is a connection or understanding between the art and it's viewer, then success.

Conversations regarding such should certainly be possible and welcomed, however as we all know, a lot can be lost in discussions that aren't face to face.

 

Ronald Walker

2 Years Ago

1. Yes but it is near impossible to not say something. Every choice you make whether intellectual or pure esthetic expresses something about you. 2. Also yes but like any art conversation it will be incomplete. If you were able to express everything verbally there would be little need to create visual art.

 

Laurie's Intuitive

2 Years Ago

1. Do you think it's important to have something to say in the creation of art?

It depends on the piece for me and what I feel led to say. Sometimes I have nothing to say about a creation. I think as an artist, it is important to communicate why you create art so people get to know who you are as an artist if you are putting yourself out there.

2. If so, do you think it's ever possible to have a true conversation about your art on the internet, especially on POD sites?

I've had some very meaningful private message discussions on this POD site about my art. I've also had some true conversations about my art on social media with musicians and authors where it starts out as an interest....then goes to a private conversation.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

With the 2 tangible sales I've made on-line so far today, I would love know what those pieces said to those 2 buying, enough to dole out good money to have them

I could ask, since I know their names and e-mails but I'm reluctant to initiate the conversation.

 

David King Studio

2 Years Ago

"I could ask, since I know their names and e-mails but I'm reluctant to initiate the conversation."

I usually ask on my ebay and Etsy sales but they rarely answer. In the cases where they did answer it usually had nothing to do with why I created the art, they saw something they related to personally...or they bought them as a gift. lol

 

Laurie's Intuitive

2 Years Ago

@Roger, Personally, I would be thrilled to be contacted by the artist I bought art from. To me that would be like a wonderful gift on top of the great art, but I guess not all would agree. It may even prompt me to buy more from the artist.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Laurie,

I do contact all that buy my tangible art .on-line.. Thanking them for the purchase, and telling them when they can expect to receive the work.

 

Laurie's Intuitive

2 Years Ago

@Roger, that is a wonderful touch to selling art. I think it is very nice to hear from the artist and it seems like the right thing to do. If I ever sold anything tangible online, I would do the same thing. Do you ever hear back from anyone where a conversations strikes up if I may ask? Or maybe the conversation already took place before the purchase I would imagine.

 

Jenny Armitage

2 Years Ago

1. I think very little of my work has a "message" in any really deep sense. But all of my work at the very least is communicating my way of visualizing. My recent drawings are mostly visual puns, and that pun is certainly a message.

2. I typically assume that my work speaks for itself. But if customers have questions I'm more than happy to talk, and talk and talk, in person or online. Typically those are face to face conversations. They happen all day at art fairs and when I have a gallery shift.

 

VIVA Anderson

2 Years Ago

Roger, my octogenarian Friend of the brush, et all 'expressions', it is always wonderful to converse with you!
This is another interesting thread, rather easier to answer than some.

1. For me, it IS important to have 'something to say' , b/c, for me my work must speak of d&m thoughts, but whether
what I say is important to those who view, I don't know. Wish I did, and, here on FAA, at least, I DO know and
truly appreciate the simpatico shared about my work, when comments are posted. And/but...I will continue to 'work'
with or without such knowing my work's relevance.

2. I am not on SM ! That stops all such 'conversation'. I don't mind the isolation. I don't promote anymore, by choice.
What's lovely IS.......wonderful sharing here at FAA, fulfills my natural need to share, feed, and, feedback.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Laurie,

Here is an e-mail from a long,long time fan, that began a new still ongoing conversation

"Dear Mr. Swezey - It must have been right as you began doing these amazing creations that I saw you and your fabulous creations while I was on a break from college (about 40 years ago now!). I bought one of your fabulous, multi-branched 12 vulture trees growing on a great rock and it became my most treasured possession. It traveled with me throughout the years, living in England, Spain, Switzerland and back here in the US.

After many years it eventually was lost in a move and even though I lost a number of things in that move, the only thing I regretted was the vulture tree. I didn't even have a picture of it! I tried at that time to find you to ask you to make me another vulture tree, but alas, this was 20 years ago and although I had your original card, the information was outdated, so I couldn't find you.

But now, I got up this morning and thought I would look one more time and there you are and there they all are! I am so thrilled I cannot tell you and although I have perused your website and your Etsy store I can't find one like the one I had.

Could you make me one please? The more twisty the branches, the more perched the vultures are even within the tangled branches, the better. It would be such a joy to have one again.

Meanwhile, I am buying something of yours off of Etsy, but here are all my details. I'll look forward to hearing from you!

Dr. Kxxxxx xxxxxxxx
6xxxx xxxxx xx
Hxxxxxx xx xxxxx
7xx-xxx-xxxx"


After making a substantial purchase of some of my other work.

And after agreeing to pick up the piece I'll be making for her....Since it would be very difficult to prepare it for shipping

And after the weather was right I began to create a major vulture sculpture.

After she was shown a photo of the finished piece...She bought it on the spot.

I am now waiting for her to come and pick up her piece, and to see and talk to her in person

 

David King Studio

2 Years Ago

Congrats on the big commission Roger...and the wonderful interaction.

 

Susan Maxwell Schmidt

2 Years Ago

Roger, if you're hesitant I would just send a thank you note and then add something like "each of my pieces has a special meaning to me, and if you would be so inclined I would love to hear what inspired you to buy the piece you did." That way you leave the decision up to them if they want to initiate a conversation, and if not they will at least have a nice thank you note from the artist.

 

Tony Murray

2 Years Ago

Roger, as you are aware I have 2 of your fabulous works of art and I converse with them as needed. As to your specific questions: Something should always be said in the creation of art. 2) I don't think it's possible to have a true conversation about art on a POD site. You can explain it, but to converse about it requires a more personal application.

 

Laurie's Intuitive

2 Years Ago

Thank you for sharing that wonderful email, Roger. It must be a great feeling to know someone loves your art as this fan does. What a wonderful connection to have with a fan! A kindred spirit with your art....something I think is a treasured gift!

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Susan,

About being hesitant, I feel this card, with a hand written, "Hi," along with the buyers name along the top

And my handwritten signature along the bottom left should suffice in most sales.

thank-you-cropped.jpg

Prodding someone to respond, I don't think is appropriate

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Tony,

I want to thank you for this engraved block of metal gift, that is always near me.



I treasure it as I treasure meeting you in flesh and blood along with Robert Hacunda and Penny

Art Prints

 

Susan Maxwell Schmidt

2 Years Ago

Roger said:
"I would love know what those pieces said to those 2 buying, enough to dole out good money to have them... I could ask, since I know their names and e-mails but I'm reluctant to initiate the conversation."

I was under the impression you were looking for a way to do that unobtrusively.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Susan,

Oh how I would love to have the internet like face to face transactions, where most buyers initiate the conversation.

And to those that question my whole "Vulture Enterprise" asking me , "Why Vultures?"

I present them with this card :

Art Prints

From there, some want to talk....Others just walk away.

Everyone that buys a vulture sculpture, gets one of these cards....

At face to face venues I joke with the buyer saying, " This card explains why I do what I do...And now it can explain why you buy what you buy, when someone asks you, "Why Vultures?".

I can't see how I can do this in the 1's and 0's universe.

As you see, I want to keep this art light hearted, with the simple yet profound message:...Always Question Your Pre-Conceived Beliefs

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"do you think it's ever possible to have a true conversation about your art on the internet, especially on POD sites?"

No.
Even on this well moderated site, there is the recurring sycophant and narcissist syndrome so prevalent that it drives participants with relevant input away while leaving a one sided argument under the guise of a discussion.

In general, open internet forums divide people more than they bring people together. Like minded people typically seek like minded people who can not handle opinions contrary to their own beliefs. There are few open minded individuals who can consider anything beyond their belief systems.

Of course, I would enjoy if someone could challenge this view in a civil manner and offer an alternative viewpoint with rationale to ponder.

 

Andrew Pacheco

2 Years Ago

1. No. I don't feel that I have to have anything to say. A picture is after all, worth a thousand words.

2. While I answered no to #1, I do believe that it is possible to have a conversation about one's art on the internet. If someone really wants to know about your art, that conversation can happen.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Andrew,

RE:... "A picture is after all, worth a thousand words."

Aren't you saying that through your discerning EYE and MIND you created a picture, that is speaking for you in a "thousand words"

 

Roy Erickson

2 Years Ago

#1 - no, not really. IF someone were to ask: 'how did you do that' - I might be profound - if they appeared to be honestly interested. More honestly - I don't know how I do it, nor am I able to explain the mechanics of it - and I've never been able to recreate any piece. If I haven't saved the image at stages, and the program I use crashes - I can "almost" get to that point again - but not usually. It's start all over.

#2 - as in this forum - not hardly.

The image/picture is about all there is.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

NOTE:

In regards to my first question:

"Do you think it's important to have something to say in the creation of art?"

I believe some have misconstrued what I'm asking


Namely: "..... something to say IN the creation of art?"

IN not About.

In essence, Do you think it's important to have your art / images say something ?

Remember, "A picture is worth a thousand words"

 

Douglas Brown

2 Years Ago

Face to face i was born to sell, but somehow i struggle to sell online, i have sold, just nowhere near my face to face strike rate, that says it all to me Roger.

Human one to one contact, a connection and a sense of trust is always going to win many more sales than an online pitch.

As long as the art creates curiosity then job done.

 

Kerry Mitchell

2 Years Ago

I think it's important to have something to say, given: a) it need not be profound and can be as simple as, "I like this," and b) there's no guarantee that anyone else will hear what is being said, or even recognize that something was being said.

Yes, it's possible to have a true conversation about one's art on a POD site, but far from easy. I guess it depends on what is meant by a "true conversation." "Cool image, bro." "Thanks." Does that qualify?

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"I guess it depends on what is meant by a "true conversation"
"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." Aristotle

True conversation is the opposite of False conversation.

 

"Do you think it's important to have your art / images say something ?" Yes, without exception. I may not have something to say but the 'images' continually foster 'conversation' - irregardless of time or place or cultural disposition. It is all a question of 'attitude' whether a viewer engages or not...

As to online discussions: they are increasingly trending in the direction of being 'distracted' by mercantilism.

p.s. 'an image is worth a thousand words' - that number is laughably low... all things considered.

 

Milija Jakic

2 Years Ago

My question for you Roger is how do you deal with fame?

 

Tibor Tivadar Kui

2 Years Ago

The artistic message is fundamental condition for any 'art'-work.Without it , that is just 'work'.

 

VIVA Anderson

2 Years Ago

YES, Roger. I DO always have a purpose: to speak my thoughts pictorially.

 

Mario Carta

2 Years Ago

Yes, otherwise what would be the point?

It's not the same online, there is to much that goes unsaid or lost in the medium of just the written word.

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"If someone really wants to know about your art, that conversation can happen."

Andrew, this is case specific whereas the conversation would most likely be moved to a one-on-one platform such as email, telephone, or a private meeting. I personally have made fantastic longterm connections with individuals in this manner.

On an open forum? With outside parties not introducing their biases into the conversation skewing the conversation away from a true conversation?

A true conversation may be started on an internet forum but there are too many individuals trolling forums with the intent to draw the attention to themselves and skew the subject in question.

 

Andrew Pacheco

2 Years Ago

Roger,

Sorry for the delayed response, I have been away from the computer for the past few days.

Roger: RE:... "A picture is after all, worth a thousand words."

Aren't you saying that through your discerning EYE and MIND you created a picture, that is speaking for you in a "thousand words"

Yes, that is exactly what I'm saying Roger. No conversation needed.

 

Andrew Pacheco

2 Years Ago

Drew,

I suppose you are right. I just didn't read Roger's OP as if the conversation had to take place in the open forum.

I don't think there are any conversations going on in any online forums and social media sites. At least not on the public facing side of things. I stand firm to my belief that if someone really wants to know more about your art it can happen here.

Obviously not in this forum. How can any meaningful conversation take place in an environment that restricts free speech by having bans on certain topics?

 

David Bridburg

2 Years Ago

"recurring sycophant and narcissist syndrome so prevalent that it drives participants with relevant input"

I think this is harsh in that people find like minded folks as moral support. That is not sycophantic or narcissistic. I think serious psych terms are inappropriate.

Disagreements over perspective only truly flare when parties do not see the other point of view. A total dismissal of a point of view leads to frustration.

Being open to other points of view leads to some interesting opportunities to learn a lot. More important if not interested in the point of view instead of getting vexed just pass on the point of view. It has nothing to do with straightening out the art world. Now does it?

Dave Bridburg
Bridburg.com
Post Modern Gallery

 

Gryph Daley

2 Years Ago

Greetings all!

1. My art _always_ says something, to me, or I don't bother creating it. I start with asking a question, trying to solve a (technical) concern, or addressing a wider interpersonal issue. My problem with this approach is that it is often difficult to find others that my art communicates with.

2. I'd like to think that sites devoted to art are easier to have discussions on. However, I've found that is often not the case. While I think many persons respond to art for a variety of reasons, other than "I like the colours", I don't think many persons have developed their own vocabulary around those responses. I don't think many / most persons are comfy with being honest - with themselves - about what a piece of art does for them. It might be a strong unhappy memory, visceral reaction, or being shocked into silence .... they may not have a label for the reaction, so they avoid discussing the art that prompted it.

It starts with questions & is nourished by (brutal) honesty, for me.

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"I suppose you are right. I just didn't read Roger's OP as if the conversation had to take place in the open forum."

Andrew, we may be in agreement but me being right is inconclusive and I'd rather not be right.

It was in the 90s when I first started interacting with art forums online. Certain patterns of group behavior emerged.

There are primadonnas, trolls, and agenda driven individuals who push beliefs. They add irrational emotional elements derailing true conversation. This is self evident. All one has to do is accept their role and play the part in the theatrics of the forums and the discussion continues but a true conversation will always be derailed by deviation of the expected role playing and the negative personalities previously described.

Fortunately, some of these discussions can be extended by ignoring the caustic individuals and maintaining civility within the parameters of a well moderated format.

Being right is not a goal in my opinion. Extraction of knowledge from information is a goal worth considering.

There are many who do have knowledge worth exchanging. Knowledge is truth extracted from information but information is also full of fallacy supported by irrationality induced by emotional triggers. This is simply part of the human condition.

It is my opinion that the truest conversations happen in person one-to-one in confidence between open minded individuals.

 

Tibor Tivadar Kui

2 Years Ago

If all agree upon everything , there is no conversation. And the purpose of a conversation, art related, is not to convince others about something, imho.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Whenever, a posted image on the internet, says something to me enough for me to respond, I've never clicked on a "Thumbs Up" or an emoji, or even use the word "cool".

It must be more. It must be some aspect of that image that has affected me.

Often I would like a reply, (more than "Thank You"), so we can possibly start a conversation about the piece and perhaps more.

Rarely does that happen.

How I want to ask, "Why?"....But that would not be proper

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

Roger, I initiated several conversations because of a comment on an art forum. The first was about 15 years ago and we took the conversation off line. We have made several short films together since then.

I have made quite a few short films with quite a few artists over the years. I met all of them in art forums. All the conversations where started in a forum.

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

Often art has something to say, but not always! Take the Young Hare by Albrecht Durer. A truly beautiful piece of art, but does it say anything?

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Martin,

From wikiart.

"The watercolor, A Young Hare (1502), is one of the most famous examples of Dürer’s study of nature and animals. The artwork is significant, not only because it demonstrates Dürer’s supreme craftsmanship, but also because it provides insight into Dürer’s understanding of the relationship between art and nature. The Renaissance brought about the development of new techniques of representation, such as the study of proportions, perspective and imitation of nature. When visiting Italy in the late 1490s, Dürer got acquainted with many of these techniques and brought over the newly acquired knowledge back to Germany. For this reason, much of Dürer’s artwork from the early 1500s, including A Young Hare, expressed his interest in nature."

That says it all.

But wait there's more:

"The artist understood the importance of observing nature, stating: “Depart not from Nature… for Art is rooted in Nature, and whoever can pull it out, has it”. The quote shows Dürer’s position on the relation between art and nature, and how studying and emulating nature is crucial to artistic creation"

 

Ronald Walker

2 Years Ago

I think all art says something about the artist. Decisions must be made and within those decisions are choices. Each choice made is made for a reason, sometimes obvious, sometimes not. In any case no mater how small it may be the cumulation of these choices tell us something about the artist, in other words these choices communicate something from the artist to the viewer.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Ronald,

RE:...... "communicate something from the artist to the viewer."

What if the viewer "hears" something from the artist, the artist never intended to say?

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

I agree with everything you say about the Young Hare; I misunderstood what you meant by saying something. I thought you meant 'a social commentary'. I am fascinated by the question what is art. I believe the question is best approached from Wittgenstein second philosophy rather than his first. Now I throw this out there; what about the botanist who paints beautiful water colours and place them in a book that hardy anyone looks at. I sometimes reflect on the 'mystery' of the Fugitive Paint; Windsor and Newton, still produce one colour that is fugitive! why! is it that the artwork produced by the artists that use it will hardly ever see the light of day (literally)

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"What if the viewer "hears" something from the artist, the artist never intended to say?"

People often put words in other people's mouths. It's just another's attempt to impose an adulterated view infused with misdirection by the viewer.

"why! is it that the artwork produced by the artists that use it will hardly ever see the light of day (literally)"

Possibly because of the same reason mentioned above. Misinterpretation leading to misdirection with an agenda.

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

Roger Swezey; thank you for the discussion. It has made me think! It has also inspired me to create a new group; one where artists a keen to discuss their artwork (not just comment on). It will be by invitation only; however, any interested artist is more than welcome to apply. It is called, HARD RAIN THE ALCHEMISTS TAVERN.

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

Drew, such artist do for for a very specific reason to keep a record of what they observe! There is a long tradition of doing so!

 

"What if the viewer "hears" something from the artist, the artist never intended to say?"

An interesting point Roger. From were I stand, that is: in front of the image, I am 'hearing' the image. Makes me wonder just how fully encompassing 'intentionality' really is? What if the image hides more than we recognize? What if we hear more as time fills us with more experience, more expertise? How often does the artist arrive surprised at the fullness that has flowed off the brush - or resides in the background of a photo...?

 

Ronald Walker

2 Years Ago

Interesting question Roger. First off, as Drew points out, people often have varying viewpoints depending on the baggage you bring to the table. Secondly since at least some decisions the artist makes spring from the subconscious it is entirely possible the artist has expressed something they were unaware of prior to creation.

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

With respect to Drew comment ' It's just another's attempt to impose an adulterated view infused with misdirection by the viewer.' A very interesting point; however potentially (very) problematic when it comes to photography. In as much as meaning can be attached to a photograph; can it be argued that the viewers meaning is any less valid that that of the photographers?

In certain cases it could be argued that the viewers meaning is more valid. For example in the case of a war memorial; or in the case where certain iconography is involved that the photographer has little knowledge of, while the viewer is steeped in that iconography!

 

Martin Wall

2 Years Ago

In many ways this debate reminds me of a similar debate in literary criticism. One view being that the meaning is posited firmly with the author, while at the other extreme it is posited firmly with the reader! Of course there are many other views many of which lay between the two!

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"Drew, such artist do for for a very specific reason to keep a record of what they observe! There is a long tradition of doing so!"

Absolutely! One of many possibilities. Drafting detailed scientific studies is a form of recording research. Well documented accurate depictions have an intrinsic value recognized for its natural aesthetics.

"With respect to Drew comment ' It's just another's attempt to impose an adulterated view infused with misdirection by the viewer.' A very interesting point; however potentially (very) problematic when it comes to photography. In as much as meaning can be attached to a photograph; can it be argued that the viewers meaning is any less valid that that of the photographers?"

If communication of idea is the intent of the artist/photographer and the idea is misinterpreted then either the artist/photographer work is ambiguous or the viewer's interpretation is skewed.

Of course the idea could be to be ambiguous and open ended. Without direct implication of any idea. The intent may simply be to invoke an emotional response. If an emotional response is seduced then there is communication. A primitive and universal communication. The type of communication advertisers and propagandist deploy.

Remember, all this is speculation: possibilities based on supposition. It is absolutely subjective.

Click like
Click not like.
LOL!

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

I would like to reiterate what I first said in this thread.

"After a number of productive years in architecture, as a lark, I presented to the public, a "clever" do-dad I had created, (vulture sculpture made from a mussel shell and a crab claw)

This resulted in all sorts of responses......From utter disgust to overwhelming praise.....From complete dismissal to those questioning themselves as to why they are attracted to this non-museum quality, shellcraft , versions of vultures.

Without intention, I created a dialog, a conversation.

For, I now had SOMETHING TO SAY.....Which in a nutshell is " DON'T TAKE ANYTHING FOR GRANTED"

And for the next almost 50 years, I took my "show" on the road, having great face to face conversations with all sorts of people with all sorts of beliefs"


In other words:.......It was only after others saw my work as a serious statement, did I realize that this work DID say something

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Drew,

RE:.. "If communication of idea is the intent of the artist/photographer and the idea is misinterpreted then either the artist/photographer work is ambiguous or the viewer's interpretation is skewed."

I'm convinced that all great art (including mine) are ambiguous.

That's what makes them Great

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"Secondly since at least some decisions the artist makes spring from the subconscious it is entirely possible the artist has expressed something they were unaware of prior to creation."

While this may be a possibility, it is my opinion that the subconscious reveals itself through the creative process bringing the subconscious to consciousness. The artist becomes aware and creativity feeds on the awareness. Nothing is hidden from the artist and the artist chooses to continue or cease their creativity.

Have a great day FAA! Back to work.......

 

David King Studio

2 Years Ago

I prefer to think that the viewer has their own internal conversation about my art. I have nothing to say about it except what I put on the "canvas", from there it's up to the viewer.

 

PJ Kirk

2 Years Ago

Art is ultimately self-exploration, if I start painting more landscapes because they sell better than nudes, I’m still learning more about me. Why are these "Likes" so important to me? Am I co-dependent? This exploration might kick off a much different conceptual piece. The most important thing as an artist, is keep exploring; change media, change subject matter, change surfaces. If your work becomes rote then you’ll lose the muse. Best, pj

 

Robert Yaeger

2 Years Ago

"1. *Do you think it's important to have your art / images say something ?
2. If so, do you think it's ever possible to have a true conversation about your art on the internet, especially on POD sites? "

1. Most of the time, yes, I like what I create to be emotive, intelligent, thought provoking artwork - to draw the viewer's attention, and generate an emotional response.
I try not to create anything bland or unfeeling. When I am working, I don't want to create a bland background.

2. I would love to see everyone's reactions and thoughts about my work, even if they hate it. But I want to understand their reasoning, either good or bad.
Related to this, I love seeing other artist's (including photographers) description of their work. I want to know what was in their head. What were they thinking? To me, it's a missing link to truly understanding a piece, but then again, as an artist, I want the viewer to have their own experience. The image I produce is hopefully causing a reaction, which I would rather have "purely" generated, instead of being influenced by my textually described thought process.

I do think having a true conversation is possible, but not in mass. People will usually take the shortest route to whatever they are doing. It is hard enough to get them to visit your website, let alone take the time to click on a like button, or especially leave a well thought out, meaningful comment. Those are always highly appreciated, btw!

 

Ronald Walker

2 Years Ago

I agree with Drew that many things that may have originated in the subconscious mind may shift to the artist consciousness during the creative process. However I think that there are other things that may not emerge to conscious thought. A simple example might be color preference. Why a particular individual is attracted to certain colors may have many reasons. Some may be explained and some might not. You love the color yellow, consciously it may be explained by you As a happy positive color but it could be a leftover experience from a very young age like walking through a lemon grove. The smell of lemons might also trigger good feelings for similar reasons. In any case I feel that the choices an artist makes might have very complex reasons that the artist may not fully understand.

 

Roger Swezey

2 Years Ago

Ronald,

RE:.... " I feel that the choices an artist makes might have very complex reasons"

With visual art, as with all aspects in one's life, everyone has their very own complex EYE, MIND and HAND

That I dare say, Ronald, with your truly Unique, artistic EYE,MIND and HAND, no one else, no matter how they try, could ever duplicate your work.


Just like when I've encounter those, stating, "What a scam this guy's got, creating a "vulture" by sticking a crab claw into a mussel shell.",

find that when they stick a crab claw into a mussel shell, it looks like a crab claw stuck into a mussel shell, never a "vulture".

 

Drew

2 Years Ago

"Art is ultimately self-exploration"
"The most important thing as an artist, is keep exploring; change media, change subject matter, change surfaces. If your work becomes rote then you’ll lose the muse"

PJ,
This approach IMHO is at the apex of creativity. We share similar attitudes in our creative approaches. Some will disagree that diversity is the key to artistic excellence.

Many artists stick with one medium, one style, and subject or a narrowed combination thereof. Theme art can be stylish and artists also find their muse as well with this approach. A well ascribed term for this narrowed approach to art is "Formula Based Approach." George Stubbs is a good example of an artist taking Formula Based art to a refined level.

 

This discussion is closed.