Art Fairs

I recently entered a local art show/fair for third time. Some artists that I know refuse to display their work in art fairs. They have said that it's too local, too small-time, and the quality of work represented is not very good. I'm not sure this is a correct assessment, but I will take any opportunity to show my work.

I think that generally speaking the work found in local art shows (regardless of the region in which you live)does tend to be of poor quality. However, I am also of the opinion that much of the art in recognized gallery settings is also lacking great value. The bigger issue, at least for me, is the opportunity to have your work seen. The more you show, the more you will be recognized. I would add that one never knows who is going to show up at these shows, and what exhibition opportunities may result. Art is a form of communication and the more venues used to this end, the better.

Bibliography of the History of Art (BHP)

The Bibliography of the History of Art (BHP) is a searchable database dedicated to art, and art history materials. It has been called the second most frequently accessed art database right after JSTOR. Until recently this database was owned and maintained by the Getty Institute in California. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal however, reported that the Getty was dropping BHP due to budget cuts. The full story can be read here.

While I think it is unfortunate that this database will be lost, I must admit that I have never used it, and until this news broke, I hadn't even heard of it. From the newspaper article it also sounds as if this data source is not as complete as it could be. If the planned return by the Getty Institute when more funds are made available becomes a reality, then this may be the change needed to revamp this database. What do you think? Have you used this resource?

Neon Art to Dazzle London Underground

No this post is not about Star Trek. I selected the above image because this posting is about neon art, and I like this image. According to a recent article from the Art Newspaper, a California artist is set to place a giant neon installation right in the London Underground. The article can be read in full here.

Before I read the article, I was of the mindset to oppose this idea. I was dismissing it as what I have often referred to as "academic art" (which if you know me, you know I hate.). However the author of the article mentioned how it will bring a dose of bright light to a place that is often dreary. London is damp and dreary, and the underground represents the dampest, dreariest part of this city. What better location could you place a giant white light? I'm all for it, and I look forward to the day I'm blinded as the subway car I'm riding passes through this location.