Researching Artists
Not all artists are created equal. Now before you get all ruffled up, hear me out... An Art medium is the method in which you make art. Art style falls within a lane of artistic expression. Modern, abstract, expressionist, realism, pop, architecture, and performance are some examples.
You wouldn't ask a fiber artist to oil paint a realistic family portrait, or a graphic designer to custom design an identical set of heirloom glass vases. The study, style and pursuit of mastery skills are very different. Yes, they lend themselves to each others areas of study and could be hobbies or areas of growth.....but in this case we will assume they are not.
Another example... you would not ask someone to decorate your house in a vibrant Mid Century Modern style if they only know to do minimalist white Farmhouse.
Why do you bring this up Kellene? Well, this has been rolling around in my brain quite awhile and I have been formulating proper ways to just put this information out there and off my noggin.
Recently, and many times in the past clients have been looking for an artist to complete a commission. I was one of many artists in a conversation thread following a specific image showing a desired result. There were wonderful and wildly talented suggestions for artists, and the thoughtfulness of the individuals suggesting fellow artists was beyond a joy to see. But I saw a large disconnect with what was wanted and how artists create.
Remember what I wrote about style above? Artistic style is much like a signature. It's yours, it's pure, raw, and truly an extention of an artist. It's recognizable as an extension of a person. You know a Picasso piece because of the form, shape, colors, cubism movement, mark making, and STYLE. Maybe that is a poor example as I'm reading it now, because he trained himself for so long he was able to simplify complex works into basic shapes and studies. (Well, that will be another blog entry....)
My passion behind this is to stress researching an artist much like you would research a good amazon purchase. Look for what they can produce (in their style) and see if it is what you are wanting to collect or commission. (<-- hmmmm another blog entry) Without a doubt I am sure the artistic skill sets will allow them to create the most beautiful pieces of work, but it may not be your style....it may not be your colors.....it may not be a lot of things, and that is why you research.
I feel very long winded here, and I do apologize. This may have been better in the form of a video to show examples, but I really just needed to get these thoughts out. I appreciate your attention through these last remarks.
Main take away...
If art is an extension of me and my interpretation of the world around me. Nothing brings more overwhelming joy than when collectors connect with that interpretation. *see my blog “ Familiar, yet unique”.
If you have comments on this subject please email me. I really enjoy artistic conversations.
Thank you for reading!