Vincent Van Gogh ~ Portrait of the Art Dealer Alexander Reid ~ 1887
Artists put their work out to the public at the risk of rejection. Galleries are continually being approached by waves of hopeful souls who want to reach out through their art. I found my self at the creative side of saying ‘no’ when I coordinated gallery shows. Juried show will turn out differently even with the same jurors, just on another day. These decisions are continually being made.
I believe Vincent Van Gogh sold only one painting while alive! While not understood at the time, his work is now loved. Thirty-nine years ago, MoMA had turned Yoko Ono away but has now re-assessed their decision. Read her story…
In an unbelievable letter they decline a gift from Andy Warhol in 1956. View letter.
It is nothing new, but it still doesn’t feel good. As sensitive as artists are to be in order to bring their work to the world, they must have a disapproval-resistant skin. They need to develop their passion along with an attitude that will not look to others for their value.
I believe the gift we have is the fruit of the spirit. A favorite quote from Leonardo da Vinci expresses it…
Where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art.
Success can have an altering effect as well. It can elevate us to unrealistic self-worth and pride. Therefore, in spite of success or failure, the artist must be faithful to the statement they are given, the message to their generation. It really doesn’t matter that it’s understood.
While we do not presume to put ourselves in the same league as the above mentioned artists, we can realize everyone faces this situation. We all will be rejected by someone, someday….let’s not have it discourage the creative force in us.
About the Guest Author
KC Moore is an award winning artist, collected nation-wide and has shown in galleries in Sacramento, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Old Sacramento, Placerville, Lincoln, Roseville, New York, Ojai and many juried shows. Her artwork is on display in many professional offices and public venues. You can learn more about KC on her website.
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KC,
Thanks for this thought provoking article about something all artists face. I LOVED the examples you gave – that letter the MOMA sent Andy Warhol is just PRICELESS!! Not to mention an inspiration to artists to NEVER give up!
Thank you.
Daniel.
Daniel, Thanks for your comment.
I believe firmly the artist must be encouraged continually. I just saw this a few hours ago "Topic of the week: Rejection" @giftsEclectic JK Rowling of the wildly successful Harry Potter books was rejected by 12 publishers
Many have continued to their success. Believe in the message you have been given.
Lots of art created by some #$%@&*@% gets elevated due to hyperbole.~ Princefreakasso
The above article was apt!
Since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, art appreciation has more to do with the critic than perhaps the work itself.