request for opinions on my art please

BlueFox, I'm just trying to learn. The reason I cited the three different sources, along with yours, is that they all seem to vary. You imply that Van Gogh was a successfull artist, and just as art, that is in the eye of the beholder.

Apparently Van Gogh's entire life is one of controversity and speculation. No one will ever know the entire truth. One controverstiy is over this "last" patining, Wheat Field with Crows. There is a symbolic Interpretation saying it was his last painting and others who dismiss that.

The point I originally was trying to make about the anger in the posters painting can be described by a quote from Van Gogh's letter number 649-

"and I did not need to go out of my way to try to express sadness and extreme loneliness. I hope you will see them soon--for I hope to bring them to you in Paris as soon as possible, since I almost think that these canvases WILL TELL YOU WHAT I CANNOT SAY IN WORDS."

Point being that many or most times art is an emotional outlet for creative people to express themselves. In the black and whie paintings of the women's faces, I see anger.

While I agree about art being about the art- in this case- it is about the viewer- if they don't like it- it won't sell or make it into stores- which is the goal in this situation.

How did you get the idea from the poster that "selling his art" is the
primary reason he wants to market to galleries. I dont think selling art is all that fuels the creative spirit and I also think with new (young) artists that validation of sorts unconnected to monetary gain is more the motivation.

Well, correct me if I am wrong- but aren't art galleries in it to make money and to sell the art they show? I see this is what you do. You sell art. Am I wrong here? Would you fill your gallery with a bunch of pieces you thought were sub-par?

You have some nice work I might add...

Well, correct me if I am wrong- but aren't art galleries in it to make money and to sell the art they show? I see this is what you do. You sell art. Am I wrong here? Would you fill your gallery with a bunch of pieces you thought were sub-par?

You have some nice work I might add...

Thank you for the compliment BlueFox181.

and yes some commercial galleries are in business for the bottom line only with proven artists. but I was making the point that the the poster could have been looking for validation and not just in monetary means by asking did anyone like his art. I for one see some strong points with his art and I also see his work is not mainstream-commercial type (thank goodness) and I also believe that his type of art gets crucified in a tradtional art class environment because it isnt following "the rules" , so to say he needs to go back and take classes was unkind -unfair- and incorrect ....IMO

Thank you for the compliment BlueFox181.

and yes some commercial galleries are in business for the bottom line only with proven artists. but I was making the point that the the poster could have been looking for validation and not just in monetary means by asking did anyone like his art. I for one see some strong points with his art and I also see his work is not mainstream-commercial type (thank goodness) and I also believe that his type of art gets crucified in a tradtional art class environment because it isnt following "the rules" , so to say he needs to go back and take classes was unkind -unfair- and incorrect ....IMO

He- is a she. And my whole thought was that she was trying to show in galleries- which would be why I said something- because- it would get flamed- no need to go through that. Like you said- not saying she "has" to take classes- but I think it would help her if she's trying to show in galleries. I'm not being unkind- I think I am being quite honest. I'd rather someone tell me the truth than lie to me any day.
That's what a critique is all about, no?
This isn't harsh at all- we used to have the sensitive kids running out of class crying every day. If you can't take the heat- get out of the kitchen! You will always have people that like and dislike your work- and you have to be able to deal with it.

He- is a she. And my whole thought was that she was trying to show in galleries- which would be why I said something- because- it would get flamed- no need to go through that. Like you said- not saying she "has" to take classes- but I think it would help her if she's trying to show in galleries. I'm not being unkind- I think I am being quite honest. I'd rather someone tell me the truth than lie to me any day.
That's what a critique is all about, no?
This isn't harsh at all- we used to have the sensitive kids running out of class crying every day. If you can't take the heat- get out of the kitchen! You will always have people that like and dislike your work- and you have to be able to deal with it.

Yes HER work would get thrashed in a typical mainstream commercial gallery, but there are many many other galleries that show and sell other kinds of art.
and a word about the "sensitive kids" and being able to "deal with it" when your artwork isnt something-something---is being judged by that particular professor and students of the class....thats one teacher and 20+ students--that is not a fair critique....thats an OPINION, and there are millions of people in this world who just might resonate on the same frequency as the artist and really be moved by his or her expressions of creativity

I agree it's an opinion- as is everything you are saying right now.

That's all these forums are- bunches of opinions- yet everyone flames eveyone for theirs. That's just how life is. And I do think you should be able to deal with it. Like right now- I have dealt with the fact that we have opposing views.

Art has always been controversial. The one question that used to get a rise out of everyone was always- "what is art?" No one ever agrees. Then there's the debate of is arts and crafts really art? I could go on for days...

I agree it's an opinion- as is everything you are saying right now.

That's all these forums are- bunches of opinions- yet everyone flames eveyone for theirs. That's just how life is. And I do think you should be able to deal with it. Like right now- I have dealt with the fact that we have opposing views.

Art has always been controversial. The one question that used to get a rise out of everyone was always- "what is art?" No one ever agrees. Then there's the debate of is arts and crafts really art? I could go on for days...

So true....I think an important point to any artist asking the question
"do you like my art"....is......dont, unless you can take the feedback....positive or negitive for what it is, an opinion.

I went through countless critiques in my art training, some very brutal, some indifferent, and some positive. I think it was the best thing that ever happened to me, not as an "artist", but as a person. It's when you are able to get perspective on your own work, while removing the ego, then you can really move forward. Some people don't respond to this as well. One must have a tough skin to make it in the arts, and you must challenge yourself to reach for the next plateau. I don't see that struggle in the works in question. I see a fun afternoon with colored pencils.

I know Woodie and others have done well with the "outsider" or "naive" style of painting. They certainly have their place. But does it concern you all that we might be devaluing rigor and study in the art culture here. I wouldn't hire an electrician who was untrained, or just "winging it".

We all love the romantic idea of the tortured artist/genius, who is a conduit for passion and madness. The fact is that this type of thing makes for great cinema, but is not sustainable to the hard-working artist. I want an art that engages the culture, speaks to specific things and experiences.

Capitalism turns Van Gogh paintings into coffee mugs and umbrellas. It co-opts that which was vital and dangerous at the time.

I could on for days and days. somebody stop me...

I went through countless critiques in my art training, some very brutal, some indifferent, and some positive. I think it was the best thing that ever happened to me, not as an "artist", but as a person. It's when you are able to get perspective on your own work, while removing the ego, then you can really move forward. Some people don't respond to this as well. One must have a tough skin to make it in the arts, and you must challenge yourself to reach for the next plateau. I don't see that struggle in the works in question. I see a fun afternoon with colored pencils.

I know Woodie and others have done well with the "outsider" or "naive" style of painting. They certainly have their place. But does it concern you all that we might be devaluing rigor and study in the art culture here. I wouldn't hire an electrician who was untrained, or just "winging it".

We all love the romantic idea of the tortured artist/genius, who is a conduit for passion and madness. The fact is that this type of thing makes for great cinema, but is not sustainable to the hard-working artist. I want an art that engages the culture, speaks to specific things and experiences.

Capitalism turns Van Gogh paintings into coffee mugs and umbrellas. It co-opts that which was vital and dangerous at the time.

I could on for days and days. somebody stop me...

I would never!

It's all in the eyes of the beholder I just think it's grayt you're gettin' it out there if that's what you wanna do. Right on!

. And my whole thought was that she was trying to show in galleries- which would be why I said something- because- it would get flamed- no need to go through that. Like you said- not saying she "has" to take classes- but I think it would help her if she's trying to show in galleries. I'm not being unkind- I think I am being quite honest. I'd rather someone tell me the truth than lie to me any day.
That's what a critique is all about, no?
This isn't harsh at all- we used to have the sensitive kids running out of class crying every day. If you can't take the heat- get out of the kitchen! You will always have people that like and dislike your work- and you have to be able to deal with it.

I disagree. You state that you are saving this person from being flamed at a gallery, yet you flame her art here. To get positive results from a critique, the critique should not be filled with the negatives. It should be focused on the good elements. This is not to be confused with saying that bad work is good, in order to pamper people. If you find only one good thing about the art, focus on that, and let the artist explore. Artists in particular tend to be extremely self-critical, so she will eventually eliminate the bad. I encourage to reread Van Gogh's history. What if Van Gogh would have listened to his brother who put down Vincent's art? Vincent's brother was smart enough to introduce Vincent to other talented artists, and this is when he blossomed, in the mind of most art historians. It was the nurturing which helped him blossom.

I disagree. You state that you are saving this person from being flamed at a gallery, yet you flame her art here. To get positive results from a critique, the critique should not be filled with the negatives. It should be focused on the good elements. This is not to be confused with saying that bad work is good, in order to pamper people. If you find only one good thing about the art, focus on that, and let the artist explore. Artists in particular tend to be extremely self-critical, so she will eventually eliminate the bad. I encourage to reread Van Gogh's history. What if Van Gogh would have listened to his brother who put down Vincent's art? Vincent's brother was smart enough to introduce Vincent to other talented artists, and this is when he blossomed, in the mind of most art historians. It was the nurturing which helped him blossom.

Then you learn nothing. Good luck with life if you want to go through it only hearing the positive aspects... you'll be disppointed in the long run.

P.S. I have felt a ton of negative response from people regarding various topics on this board. You're turning this into a personal attack. "Go re-read those books."
Why don't you flame theother 15 ppl who have said the same 'negative' thing in this forum?
Don't take it so personally Joe- did you miss the part were we agreed these are all opinions?

wow, thanks for all the comments..gone two days and tryin to recover from my little trip to destin, love the crab trap! the weiner dog pics were too cute :funn:
this is my baby chloe




will try to cover all the comments i have missed out on, since i did get this all started i have never totally ruled art classes out, right now i just dont have the time between work and classes for my cj/csi degree...most of the black-n-white drawings are focused on anger, those were done for a friends independant film based on the anger that flows throughout the screenplay of the main character's issues.....yes, i am planning on showing a few of these at a couple of local galleries if i can ever find time to get some prints made...

van gough i do like, have always loved monet!

So true....I think an important point to any artist asking the question
"do you like my art"....is......dont, unless you can take the feedback....positive or negitive for what it is, an opinion.

i can dig the positive or negative feedback, both are useful. if i only wanted positive responses i would only ask close friends and family members if they like my work...there is something to learn from everyone, thanks for all of the comments....................

LR

i can dig the positive or negative feedback, both are useful. if i only wanted positive responses i would only ask close friends and family members if they like my work...there is something to learn from everyone, thanks for all of the comments....................

LR

Way to have an awesome attitude- keep up the work!

Cute dog...

It's all in the eyes of the beholder I just think it's grayt you're gettin' it out there if that's what you wanna do. Right on!

thanks!! some of these pieces i did do rather quickly, but that was my point after all...i will post some more work from time to time that i do not have up yet and let the locals take a rip or two out of it
and you are right, gettin it out there is half the battle

LR

I found the colored art lacked emotion and the black & white art was very violent/angry. The strength of motion in the BW art was good, but I didn't get any sense of a theme or message. I'm sure that viewing the artwork via photos (which deadens and flattens work) could be part of this.

Focus on creating art you enjoy and don't worry about selling it. Trying to limit your artistic vision for commerce this early would be quite stifling.

The suggestion of joining an artist's critique group was a very good one. My aunt and grandmother have been professional artists for 35+ and 65+ years respectively and both regularly present work to family/friends and an artist's group.

rice, you don't strike me somebody who is angry at all. in fact, any artist that goes from doing something in the safety of ones private enclave to sharing it with the public is TREMENDOUSLY BRAVE and HOPEFUL!
I APPLAUD YOU!

i encourage you to continue to explore your artistic impulses and also to seek out some classes that can give you more training on technique so that you will be well prepared to express yourself or to learn about new techniques on your own via the web and experimentation. i agree with you the "outsider" approach is important, so i'm not sure why you're worried about getting opinions from people on this website if that is the case. while i'm a MASSIVE woody long fan!!!! most of the art i've seen exhibited and sold down here is meant to match people's couches and a commercial mall is not a "street scene" HAHAHAHA! so while you have faith in your own artistic instincts regarding education, it's also valuable to follow that through regarding criticism.

it's always a struggle as an artist to temper the honesty of one's voice with the right resources and thoughtful feedback. i think you owe it to yourself to expose yourself to other artists. myspace is a great start!! OTHER artists can not only offer you valuable education and advice on technique, they can encourage YOUR vision. self-expression is a lifelong journey and you have just taken some of the first steps.

the world is a very big place. don't limit yourself to the feedback you receive on this board.

On my recent visit to destin I did find a new art gallery on 30-A that I love.-Weatherall Fine Art. The artist has a Masters in Fine Art and is very talented. I purchased a piece last week that is beautiful! The art is not at all COUCH ART!! It is good to see that more collectable art is starting to show up in Santa Rosa Beach and not just in bigger cities.

I know Woodie and others have done well with the "outsider" or "naive" style of painting. They certainly have their place. But does it concern you all that we might be devaluing rigor and study in the art culture here. I wouldn't hire an electrician who was untrained, or just "winging it".

I could on for days and days. somebody stop me...

I'm pretty sure Woody is a naturally talented artist who has worked quite rigorously creating his art for quite some time now. it may not be your thing, but its quite wonderful IMO. Folk art isn't really my thing, but Woody's art definitely speaks to me... this kind of art does not follow the rules. It is my understanding that most folk artists are self-taught. not at all a concern that it has an effect or devalues the art culture...

T. Cline - have you shown any of your work on this board? its magnificent. she has her own rules too. her color is wonderful. I would describe her work as abstract - with her very own twists. very lovely and lively. I've watched her work change and grow, and yes, improve over the years. now I can't afford her stuff... :roll: ain't that the way it goes?

I'm pretty sure Woody is a naturally talented artist who has worked quite rigorously creating his art for quite some time now. it may not be your thing, but its quite wonderful IMO. Folk art isn't really my thing, but Woody's art definitely speaks to me... this kind of art does not follow the rules. It is my understanding that most folk artists are self-taught. not at all a concern that it has an effect or devalues the art culture...

I was in no way dismissing Woody's work, or his work ethic. He's a really great guy who has a very interesting style. Sure, it's not my thing, but that is quite alright. It's just a question that I wanted to ask, in general. I would just hope that any young artists out there would seek some level of instruction. We can't all be folk artists, that vision is best held by a select few. I put my money on Woody and Washboard Jackson....

I was in no way dismissing Woody's work, or his work ethic. He's a really great guy who has a very interesting style. Sure, it's not my thing, but that is quite alright. It's just a question that I wanted to ask, in general. I would just hope that any young artists out there would seek some level of instruction. We can't all be folk artists, that vision is best held by a select few. I put my money on Woody and Washboard Jackson....

DanHall, I think your question is interesting, but let me ask you another question regarding a similar subject of which you are very aware -- music. Do you think that folk musicians are taking away from the classical style of music? I for one, can greatly appreciate both, and listen to one as much as the other. I could honestly say that it would be difficult for me to say which I liked best. I have many favorites. No different when it comes to my favorite flowers. I like different ones for different reasons, and this all circles back to art. I enjoy many forms of art, and if it is really art, I don't think one has more merit than the other. My thought of art is two-fold -- one being in the soul of the artist who creates a piece, and tho other being in the eye of the observer of the piece. For the viewer, art should strike a thought or emotion, yet, viewers have unique perspectives, and that which may affect one, may have no effect on another.

I do understand your point and am not making light of your call for instruction. I just want to add a different thought on "art."

I agree that many artists would benefit from formal instruction for a number of reasons, including to help develop and refine their talent and skills.