Michael McDowell on thu 11 jun 98
Hey gang,
No, I've been here the whole time. Just giving us all a rest. Gotta weigh in
on the Art vs. Craft, debate one more time. I've said it before, if it comes
from the heart it's art. Maybe not good art, that's another question. But
some people are uncomfortable with the term "heart". It's been co-opted for
them by a set of connotations for which they have no sympathy. For that
group, let me rephrase:
Art is an expression from the individual's unique core. It's "quality" or
"effectiveness" can be seen as a function of how well it "resonates" with
others. The "musical analogy" rears it's beautiful head again here. Good
art, though it is an expression of unique individuality, "strikes a chord"
with it's audience.
I don't think it is appropriate to sit in judgement of others efforts to
produce art, saying that it's not art, because it strikes a sour note for
me. To judge whether it is art or not, I feel I must attempt to adopt the
others frame of reference and ask from there, (as would David Hendley) is
this an honest effort? It's not a question of whether it would be an honest
thing for me to do. Thank God, we're not all alike!
I've been asked if I haven't gone to fairs and been appalled to see the
shoddy work that's being passed off as art or craft there. Yes, of course
I've seen plenty of junk offered up as "fine", both by those lacking in
talent, skills, or experience, and by those with all the prerequisites to do
fine work who simply won't take the time when the market is responding only
to the surface qualities and the prices. But what I've found most appalling
is when I see truly fine work, crafted with love and care and no shortcuts
taken, and that work is being offered at prices not significantly different
from the junk.
But really I'm less and less affected by these matters now. Increasingly I
can see that what others do need not affect me and my approach to my work.
I'm not "projecting my shadow" onto my fellow potters nearly so much as I
used to. I have found my own way, I must trust all of you to find yours.
Surely, if for some of you my experience "strikes a chord", then we can
share...
Michael
Michael McDowell
Whatcom County, WA USA
http://www2.memes.com/mmpots
mmpots@memes.com
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