The author Chris Barton giving a great presentation on publishing his first book.Today was a day full of experiences both positive and negative. This afternoon I attended a lecture and booksigning at the Barnes and Noble at the San Pedro Crossing. It was sponsored in part by the local chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. The author Mr. Chris Barton presented a very entertaining and informative lecture on the process of having his first book "The Day Glo Brothers" published. Afterward I networked a bit meeting and chatting with some nice folks. It was a great experience and I'm glad I attended.
This evening was the opening of the Revolucion art show for which I had made a painting and a drawing to exhibit. Now I want want to mention that prior to this show I hadn't taken part in any art shows since 2007. Being part of a group art show can be a good experience. You get to meet other artists and there is the possibility of selling your art. The thing is, art shows are only as good as the gallery where show your work. If for instance, your art is placed in a ridiculously low position that only a little person would find acceptable, it could be a sign that your work wont be noticed thus hindering the chances of it being sold. Couple that with inadequate lighting and the artist might as well take his piece and go home.
Such was my experience with the Revolucion show. It was both disappointing and shocking. The last time I was part of an art show in San Antonio I had a similar experience. Now, three years later, at an entirely different gallery I get to be disappointed again.
The photo below shows the entrance leading into the show. You see so many lights of all kinds. Then at the rear of the gallery, where you find my work, you are suddenly on the dark side of the moon. If you click on the photo you can magnify it and you'll see a guy to the left at the far end of the room. He looks like he's wearing a fake Fidel Castro beard. On the opposite side of the panel he's loitering by is where you'll find my work. The second photo shows me standing next to my work that is displayed at waist height and sans light.
One shouldn't have to squint and stoop to see a painting unless age and infirmity are the cause rather than a lack of care. When I was in college we took care to properly display our art because the way we presented the work was a direct reflection of ourselves. What I saw tonight was a lack of respect and care for the work entrusted to the organizers of the show. Perhaps they need a remedial course in Art Show 101.
Oooooh and aaaaah! Then...
Houston we have a problem...
