A new gallery, the River Front Art Coop, is opening in downtown Troy, and I’m schlepping some of my work down there this afternoon with a view to showing it on consignment even though when it comes to the visual arts, I’m feeling pretty rusty. I did the cover illustrations for both my mystery novels, but aside from a few collages, I’ve neglected what used to be my primary means of artistic expression.
All my formal training was in the visual arts, so why have I reinvented myself as a writer instead of a painter? Off the top of my head, I can think of lots of reasons:
- Writing is so much speedier. At the computer, my ideas flow from my fingers. Saying it’s effortless would be lying, but for me, it’s a heck of lot easier than painting, and you can say so much more in a shorter time.
- Writing is cheaper by far. A decent computer and Internet connection, a ream of bright white multipurpose paper from Staples, a new toner cartridge now and then, and I’m good to go. Have you priced art supplies lately?
- Writing requires less space. In a space six by six feet – that’s 36 square feet – I have my L-shaped computer desk, my file cabinet, my comfy office chair, a little wicker stand that serves as a cat bed, and a picture window with a lake view. In our present home, alas, there’s no space that’s remotely adequate for my needs as a visual artist. If my longing to paint becomes overwhelming, I’ll have to build or rent studio space.
- Writing makes me happier. I believe I’m better as a writer than I ever was as a painter. I don’t have that inner critic nagging me about what a mediocre writer I am – at any rate, not until I begin dealing with the marketplace. When I’m drawing or painting, in contrast, my inner critics are relentless and nasty. They tell me my work is crap – pedestrian, amateurish, unoriginal. Where do these voices come from? Some are former art teachers. They weren’t actually all that discouraging, but I’ve internalized them anyway – especially a world-famous art therapist who told me my work was “hopelessly vulgar.”
- Writing enables me to reach more people more affordably. Over the course of decades, I’ve developed a jaundiced view of the art world. One-of-a-kind works of art are luxury items, and few people can afford to buy them. For centuries, the visual arts have been the province of the privileged – commissioned by the church or supported by wealthy patrons. Books, on the other hand, are still relatively affordable. And writing on the Internet, I can reach a potentially limitless audience for free. It feels much more politically correct than hanging my work in a gallery.
Nonetheless, those big empty walls at the River Front Art Coop have a powerful allure. The space is magnificent – a high-ceilinged commercial space that reminds me of my old lofts in SoHo, with a view of the Hudson from windows at the back. I miss the camaraderie of the community of artists I knew in New York City, and perhaps the three women starting this gallery, including the stained glass artist Terry Faul, will be able to help fulfill that particular void in my life.
So after I publish this post, I’ll get to work unearthing some art work and loading it into my Focus hatchback. I’ll try to shush the inner critic who tells me the work isn’t good enough, subject myself to their scrutiny and see what happens. Who knows, I may be seduced back into the visual arts, at least part-time. If I clean up my office, I might even find space for that new drafting table I haven’t unpacked yet.
Writing Articles says
Creating something with one’s hands, whether by painting, sculpting or writing or expressing it with the body by dancing or song can be a very helpful way to express loss in some tangible form
colorock.com says
First things first – to acrylic paint well, you have to paint like you do not pay for the color! If you want a nice paint finish, you must apply the right amount of color. You do not spread paint just because you want to save money or for some other reason. For color and we forget the cost of paint and apply a nice, smooth, thick layer.
julielomoe says
Welcome to both of you – it’s good to have some new people commenting on my website.
I agree that making something with one’s hands is very rewarding in many ways. I love the look, feel and immediacy of pastels and the sensuality of oil paint. I also worked in acrylic for many years, but to me it doesn’t have the tactile pleasure – or the luscious end result – of oils.
It’s true that you can’t worry about the expense of the materials when you’re working.
BTW, the gallery people liked my work and took everything I brought. Now I wish them luck with attracting some interested patrons! They’re still open to work from other artists, so if you’re interested, leave a comment here and I’ll send you the information.
Jane Kennedy Sutton says
I’m in awe of such talented individuals who have a choice about the art form they want to follow. Good luck with the art consignment.
I write because it brings me enjoyment and because I can’t even draw a decent stick person!)
julielomoe says
Hi Jane. Enjoyment is by far the best reason to pursue any art form. I’ve long since learned that I’m happiest when I’m creating something, whether it’s writing, painting or some other art form. Finding an appreciative audience, let alone a market for my work, is strictly secondary.
There’s such a thing as having too many art forms, though. I write poetry, play jazz and pop piano, and make jewelry too. There’s such a thing as spreading your talents too thin.
Enid Wilson says
I wouldn’t mind learning to paint though. I think it will allow me to explore another dimension of how I can observe things.
Really Angelic
julielomoe says
Hi Enid. Yes, painting and drawing definitely help sharpen your observation of the natural world. I find that’s made my writing richer – so people have told me, anyway.