Flying Fantasy, Acrylic and Enamels
Recently, I read an email discussion written by fellow art educators that made references to the inferiority of water-media as a topic of study for young artists. Many of you may agree or disagree to this idea.
We create art in a system that promotes the elitism of superstars in the fine arts. However, take a tour of fine art throughout the centuries and see if you won’t agree with me that there is enough room in art to include everyone. I can’t help it, from the beginning I want to embrace and inclusive philosophy rather than exclusive. While I wonder at the divine imagery of Michelangelo, I also enjoy the story telling of Grandma Moses.
While water-media may not be a favorite in New York art galleries, certainly great watercolorists like William Turner and Winslow Homer cannot be ignored, as well should future generations of artists have the opportunity to express themselves with this media. Just a few thoughts…What do you think?
AGREE 100 % with you, Kara.
ReplyDeleteArbitrary declarations regarding the inferiority of one medium over another is a form of "art-media racism"!!! (I just made that term up, but I think it gets my point across..).
Who is to say that someone who is enthralled with one of the most longstanding and time-honored media won't discover new approaches (let alone plain personal enjoyment) from watercolor?
Watercolors were disparaged as a medium for a long time because women very often found expression through this medium.
Think about it: when disparaging this medium in the 21st century are we also participating in a form of sexism?
It's time to get rid of prejudices across the board--not only in art!!!