2 for 1 post

The topics (There are two! It's a two for one deal.) this week were sent to me by a friend. One discussed art produced on skateboards, and the other examined the work of Theodore Geisel AKA Dr. Seuss.

The article on skateboard art can be read here.
As I read this, I was not so critical on the artists descicion to paint an image on skateboards (as the argument of the article seems to describe) rather, I was more interested in why he chose skateboards. As I have often posted here, I firmly belive art is a tool meant for communication. The idea being expressed should be a part of all elements within the work. When I was in art school an artist and fellow student decided to produce his imagry on televisions, suitcases, hatboxes, and various other objects rather than paper or canvas. The image painted on thses items somehow related to what that object was. The result was a complete work where all aspects of visual information applied. I'm less certain of why this artist is painting on skateboards. It seems like he is only interested in making money. If that was his intenion, then I agree with the argument of the article. My reasons for agreement however, are quite different.




The second topic came from another blog. The full story can be read here. This discussion expressed surprise at learning about some politicized imagery produced by "Dr. Seuss." I have to say that I am not surprised. That time period (WWII years) was very politicized for all artists. I've seen similar works produced by Charles M. Schultz from that time period. What would have surprised me would have been to learn that this type of cartoon was produced well afet the war years in private. This is not the case however.



Thats all for this week. Leave your comments, and I will respond. See you next time.