To
paraphrase Robert Henri, from his book "The Art Spirit", I
agree entirely with one of his paragraphs, and express my opinion of
that idea, below.
He wrote a letter in 1916, regarding art buying, of his day. I like
to think this still applies.
If regular folks went more into local art galleries, they should feel
confident in their own decisions, regarding what is important art. Take
with you, all the knowledge you have gained, and all that you have liked,
in your own life. Let no one bend your will.
Take a chance if you choose to buy. With your struggle to comprehend
a good choice, you join the struggle with the artists, who struggle
also, to create.
If you choose well, your art will continue to bring special and unique
qualities into your world. If, after some time you tire of this work,
perhaps it was a mistake. With this knowledge, you grow and may understand,
this was a wonderful opportunity to explore the nuances of personal
expression. You risk making a mistake, just as the artists risk many
mistakes, in their own efforts.
Artists are supported, when sales are made. Art buyers are often risk-takers,
but when they do, just that, all of their society benefits from advancing
the belief that art is important, and everyone has opportunity to give
evidence, with their own expression.
Doug MacBean 2009
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In my studio, painting up a storm.