ArtBistro

I wasn't aware that there was ever a break in sincerity between Gen X or Y. Who ever came up with these labels anyway? As what most others have said here; the work should speak for itself technically and emotionally. Communication is the strongest aspect of all art; so when you are approached, it helps to just be honest and maybe a little open ended so that the viewer/person asking the question can come up with their own conclusions. I think it's a bit hypocritical when an artist splurts out all these labels to describe their work, but then complains when other people try to fit them in a box. They kinda asked for it.

I dig your article. I am so glad that art will always be appreaciated in the "eye of the beholders". Human expression should have the freedom to utilize art, speech, music, etc... like you stated, whichever forms help you get your feelings out there, go for it! Thanks for article.

I totally agree. I tell people the facts: I work in oil on canvas and graphic arts. I avoid theoretical statements about my work or what type of art it fits into. I figure if people are interested, they'll ask about my colors, my inspiration or my process.

I don't think that when an older professor gives a crit and as you say dismisses the art as kitsch or too sentimental, that there's anger within what they are saying. It's not only about the sincerity or emotion about the work, it's more about the technical aspects of the work and how they move your emotions. If there is a deeper meaning then you should use that conception within a technique. But there should be a ballance in a work of art. When an artwork seems too kitschy it's about how it "feels" technically and emotionally. But when the media and universal truths and cliches get in the way of your work it demeans it in a way. It's disapointment not anger.

Amy,
I think you want to be a serious artist and want to be understood by others. This is good for someone who has a lifetime to come to terms with understanding their own art. I have found that in the long view of how one sees their work changes. In time the description of the type of artist they are evolves or they may even care less to describe what they do as something other then original work. To describe ones work is almost always less important then the work itself. Best wishes on your journey, don't worry passion is what counts most.

I thought i was an abstract impressinst, but ive become an avid cartoonist. To hell with the labes. I am just happy to be an artist.

I am an Abstract, Impressionistic, Realist whose work is look into the mind of a man that is the living definition organized chaos and contradiction. I am joking around, well I do suppose those silly adjectives describe my work. I paint portraits, action shots of musicians, collage, abstract, draw and paint murals. Mostly, whatever is tickling my fancy at the time. I strive to be as versatile and proficient as possible. When I shuffle around from one "style" to the next , I find myself not getting bored and always in the mood to create. One of my favorites ever is Picasso. He is who I want to be like. Someone categorize Picasso. Other than a Prolific Pure Artist and Innovator. He did it all and thats what I am trying to do. In no way am I comparing myself to him other than we both do more than just paint or create ONE way, oh yeah, and I am a Spaniard.