Saturday, February 26, 2011

"French Press" - SOLD


6x6" - oil on masonite

I was thinking today about the concept of "favorite artists". I remember when I first started painting I kept reading the same two names over and over again cited as favorites. I probably don't need to tell you who they are. So I checked out one of the many books on Sargent at the library and yes, I was impressed. Sorolla's work on the other hand, is a lot harder to find. After much searching I've still only seen a few of his paintings so I'm a bit mystified as to how he's become so popular. Although I appreciate them both, there are so many wonderful artists doing such a variety of inspiring work that I couldn't possibly pick favorites. I feel every artist has something valuable and unique to offer, famous or not. What do you think?

2 comments:

Denise Rose said...

I totally agree! I think with the "invention" of the internet also, there is way more exposure for artists not necessarily published in the history books, therefore expanding people's list of "favorite" artists. I have started a "favorite artist" wall of work from contemporary artists whose work I can currently afford and love and feel inspired by myself (yourself included!). I think different work speaks to you whether or not the person is famous or not, and even the "famous" artists that we all know about had their paintings that were less than fabulous when painted. The subjectivity of art and personal preference is something that I think makes it exciting and interesting. There is, truly, something out there for everyone!

Douglas Clark said...

I agree. I do have to say I love Sorolla's paintings. I've only seen two in person at the Meadows Museum of Spanish art at SMU in Dallas, but I was very impressed with his paintings and bought a book on his art. When I saw his work my first thought was that I was surpissed his work wasn't better known.