Fashion As Art

I find it interesting to read about the history of fashion and the first designers. Taking a look at the history of fashion design one might begin in the 1840s with the first grand couturiers.

WORTH
Charles Frederick Worth was the first to put his signature on clothes and used his ideas of feminine beauty to influence the beauty of women. Worth was also the first person to apply an artist’s standards to the design and construction of a dress.

POIRET
Paul Poiret, known for his simplistic designs, was one of the first to use bold prints for not only cushions, curtains, wall coverings but articles of clothing. He was also known for the exotic style and he also experimented with Oriental themes.

LAVIN
Lavin is one of the oldest fashion houses in Paris. It is believed that Jeanne Lavin’s sense of color and pattern evolved from an admiration of artists Vuillard, Renoir and Fantin-Latour. Lavin is credited to being the first designer to dress whole families. She designed children’s clothing and hats and opened a men’s division.

The look of fashion changed dramatically in the 60’s. We all wanted to look young and the fashion designers answered the call. After the death of Christian Dior a new couture was established. The pioneer for this new movement was Rudi Gernreich. Gernreich and his peers experimented with materials not usually associated with fashion.

If you would like to read more about fashion as art you can find art books, art catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


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The Arts and Crafts of Jewelry

As my interest in making jewelry evolves, I have recently discovered the metalwork artist, Janet Payne Bowles. Bowles lived during the time the Arts and Crafts Movement in America was just beginning. Born in the late 1800’s, Janet Payne Bowles was influenced by William Morris and became a leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement in Indianapolis.


Bowles taught a basic metal course at a high school in Indianapolis in 1912. She later taught advanced classes. Her classes were both vocational and educational. The classes were divided into three parts: design, construction (including mechanical processes) and art appreciation. The students started with simple things like rings and stickpins and then advanced to more complex items.

Bowles traveled extensively and received many awards for her work. Her work has been exhibited in several cities. As her skills grew she moved from small pieces of jewelry to large pieces of wrought iron metalwork. Precision and detail was included in each piece that she created. Unfortunately, she did not receive the great financial rewards one would expect from her work. Payne Bowles lived during the time that mass production was on the rise and handmade items were not as popular to the general public.

You can read more about this artist in the book, The Arts & Crafts Metalwork of Janet Payne Bowles. You will find this exhibition catalog along with others at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.



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Discovering Picasso

I just read about a large number of Picasso paintings recently being discovered. I believe they total 271 in all. From what is currently known about the collection, the work seems to be authentic. Of course, the experts will have to examine the work and make the final decision.

This could be a major discovery because a Picasso anything is worth a great deal. This is exciting news for the art world. The discovery provides an opportunity like no other to learn more about Picasso. This will undoubtedly provide a lot of fuel for the art historians and biographers. Many writers love to uncover something new and different about a famous individual--especially one who has been written about so much.

Over the years there have been numerous books written about the artist known as the “King of Modern Art”. I will patiently wait to see what comes of this new discovery. It will be interesting to see if there is more to learn about this great artist whose work is so biographical.

You can find books on Picasso and other artists at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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Dazzled by Jewelry

I have recently taken a special interest in jewelry. I have a modest collection and have always loved viewing jewelry at museum exhibitions. I find the Egyptian jewelry shows particularly fascinating.

Jewelry making has been around since Stone Age. Although I have always had a fondness for jewelry , I have just recently viewed jewelry as decorative art.

Jewelry has been defined as a precious material used to adorn oneself. Jewelry making has been around since the Stone Age. It has been said that man created jewelry before he talked. The art and craft of jewelry seems to be more popular than ever.


A few weeks ago I attended an exhibition, Read My Pins, that featured a collection of pins owned by Madeleine Albright. Although most of the collection could not be considered fine art, many revealed a history and important pieces with symbolic value. The show included an extensive collection of jewelry.

My interest in jewelry making has gradually progressed. I am currently taking a class in metalsmithing that introduces you to the basics of line, shape, texture, rhythm, movement of precious and base metals.

Making jewelry has become a passion. As a reader, I love to read about my latest interests. I have discovered that there is a multitude of reference material on jewelry making. You can find an abundance of both historical and technical information on the metalworking. I have discovered my greatest source for creativity is the work of the great artists of the past. Auction catalogs frequently provide inspiration.

If you are looking for inspiration or just want to just view a fascinating art work, check out the art books and catalogs at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


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Sculpture Inspiration

It seems that sculptures are very populary right now. I know that several museums and galleries are showing installations that are created by sculptors. The magazine, Art in America focused on sculptures in last month’s issue. Included was a review of some of the work of new modern sculptors as well as those who are influencing today’s work. This started me thinking about all the different kinds of sculptures and what inspires the artists.

I not certain I know what inspires sculptors. I think, however, it started long ago with Michelangelo, the supreme sculptor. Michelangelo felt that the sculptor was godlike. Michelangelo, unlike many of his time he created his work from one block. His most famous “Pieta” reveals the genius in his work. It has been said that Michelangelo was insprired by Leonardo Da Vinci.

There have been many great sculptors since Michelangelo. Matisse known for his great paintings also created sculptures. Matisse’s colossal bronze sculptural work just recently sold at an auction. The 6 foot bronze relief “ Back IV” sold for over 48 million dollars.

I’m quite certain that a lot of things inspire the sculptors today. But I believe many will forever be influenced by the past.


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Looking At Warhol

The Andy Warhol Enterprises exhibition has finally arrived at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I have had the opportunity to view the show on my own but have not had an opportunity to go through it with a curator. I must admit, I was more impressed that I thought I would be. I was surprised to learn that Warhol’s work included fashion, design, music, television and film

The focus of this show is the Andy Warhol Enterprises, Inc., which was formed in 1957 in connection with his career as a commercial artists. I grew up with viewing many of the Warhol images. A lot of his work was somewhat familiar. This particular exhibition is large and includes several pieces of work that were new to me. I would have to say the silk screens portraits have to be my favorite. Warhol created hundreds of portraits in the 1970s and 80s. I especially like Andy’s self-portraits.

There are currently many of exhibits of Andy Warhol’s work in the country. I am proud to say that the exhibition at the IMA is spectacular. The exhibit is large and takes some time to really take it all in. The exhibit will be around at the museum until the first of the year. I am looking forward to viewing again the work of one of the most widely known artist in America. The next time may be with a tour guide.


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Atget - Focusing on the Mundane

I have always been fascinated by photography and photographers. I recently read a book on Eugene Atget. Atget was considered by some Surrealists as a forefather. Atget is actually considered by many to be the father of modern photography.

Atget who considered himself a chronicler of Paris took some of the most breath taking photographs ever recorded. He took thousands of photographs on the streets of Paris. He spent most of his life photographing the architecture and streets scenes. His photos were straight foreword and not manipulated.
He took thousands of photographs but was never recognized during his life time for his great work.

Although his work focused on the commonplace images, there was something extraordinary and magical in his work. The photograph, Ragpicker, depicts the Parisian street seen that was probably very common in 19th century. Atget did not consider his work artistic but no one can look at the photograph and not be moved. It has been said that Atget had remarkable vision. The clarity and detail in his photographs reflect his genius.

You can find a book on Atget and other photographers as well as a great selection of art books at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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The Unconventional

I had an opportunity last week to view a new contemporary art installation at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I was not prepared for this visually exciting piece of work. It looked like a giant colorful loom extended from the ceiling. Artists Benjamin Ball and Gaston Nogues who work with unconventional materials have set up a large-scale installation,Gravity’s Loom, at the main entrance to the museum.

I entered the museum early Saturday morning and this was my very first opportunity to get a glimpse of the new installation. It was a cloudy day and the sun had not made it’s appearance for the day. The glass walls that surround the pavillion allow a great deal of light into the main pavilion. The colored strings of this exhibit seem to be more saturated due to the lighting.

Because it was my first visit, I am not certain what effect the bright sunlight would have on this art work. I have been told, however, that the view is magnificent at night. I think I will make several trips to catch a glimpse of this unusual piece of art work at various times of the day. As I continue my journey to learn more about contemporary art, I am finding more things to admire and appreciate.


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A True Patron of the Arts

I have often wondered how great museums and art galleries are created. I know that here in American wealthy families would collect artwork and they would subsequently build museums to display their collections. In the early years, however, the system of patronage usually excluded American artists. Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a unique patron of the arts, played a major role in the advancement of American art.

Mrs. Whitney dared to be original in an era where art needed to be aesthetically acceptable. American art was ignored by many wealthy individuals who preferred artwork purchased from Europe. She had a passion for art and supported exhibitions of work by American artists of all backgrounds.

The Whitney Museum began when Mrs. Whitney opened the Whitney Studio in 1914 and allowed work to be submitted as long as it was sincere. This included American contemporary art. In 1918 the Whitney Studio Club was created and in 1928 The Whitney Studio Galleries. By this time Mrs. Whitney’s had acquired a huge collection. She offered to donate her twentieth-century American art to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum declined her offer so she created her own museum. The Whitney Museum of American Art opened in 1931.

Mrs. Whitney was a risk taker, a true patron of the arts who searched for quality in American Art. Because she stood by her beliefs, today we can still enjoy wonderful and unique works of art at the first institution devoted to American art, the Whitney Museum.


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Looking Forward to Meeting Warhol

I am eagerly awaiting the upcoming exhibition at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The Andy Warhol Enterprises, exhibition will open this fall. Everything I have read about this show leads me to believe that this show will be exciting.

Although pop art has never been my thing, I have never been disappointed with the presentations organized by IMA. I believe this show will be both entertaining and educational. I think there are many facets of Warhol’s career that have not been emphasized and this show promises to highlight some of his lesser known works.

Like many, I associate the name Andy Warhol with the commercial paintings that were primarily created during the ‘60s. Most art lovers can associate the images of the Campbell’s Soup Cans and the Dollar Sign with Warhol. Most of us, probably, know very little about his about his shop window designs from the 1950’s or the screen test films.

As I continue my journey to learn and appreciate contemporary art, I believe may discover something that intrigues me in the work of Andy Warhol. I can hardly wait until for the show to opens so I can expand my art education. Hopefully by the time I have experienced the show, I will be able to list more than the silk screen canvas on ink, Flowers, as my favorite Andy Warhol work of art.

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Artful Chinese Ceramics

The Chinese have been working at mastering the art of ceramics for some time. There is a long history of Chinese Ceramics. According to archaeologist, traditions in Chinese ceramics have existed for more than 8,000 years. It is no wonder that the work we see produced in modern times is exceptional.

There was a lot of experimentation with various techniques of pottery. History tells us that there were many different traditions that evolved over the years. Some of the ceramic masterpieces we see to day are a result of the development of this Chinese art form.

The early Neolithic pottery provided utilitarian and functional vessels that enhanced the everyday life for the Chinese. Eventually pottery was used for burial and ritual purposes. The Neolithic painted tradition formed in the Yellow Basin.

The Black Pottery from the Dawenkou and Longshan cultures. The black pottery is known for its characteristics shapes. This pottery was used for rituals and offerings.

One of the most significant techniques, hard glazing, was discovered probably around the 15th century. The hard glazed wares of Shang and Zhou are considered to be the forerunners to the true porcelains of later 7th century origin.

From the very primitive and simple vessels to the elaborately decorated porcelains, the Chinese have provided a foundation for all that have attempted to master this art. It’s no wonder that collectors and well as others are fascinated today in the art of Chinese Ceramics.

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Frida Still Making Waves

I just read about the Frida Kahlo retrospective in Berlin that continues to attract large numbers of art lovers. According to a recent article, over 300,000 have seen this exhibit so far. It is expected that thousands more will be standing in line to see exhibit that will be on display at until August 9, 2010 at the Martin-Gropus Bau in Germany.

Kahlo has always been very popular and exhibits have usually brought in lots of followers and admirers. What makes this exhibit different, I believe is that there is work being shown that has never been seen by the public before. I am always amazed that an art organizers state that the artist work that was “assumed to be lost” is now found and will be shown. It seems like a very convenient way to maintain interest. Some of her last paintings, supposedly, done late in her life are being exhibited.

A few years ago, in commemoration of the death of Kahlo over 300 works of art were presented at the Frida Kahlo: The Forest of Images exhibition. Some of the paintings from this exhibit portray Kahlos imaginative and personal world. Frida Kahlo provides an amazing colorful representation of the Mexican people and their lives and this is found in the complexity of her early work.

Mexican art has increased in popularity over the last few years and Frida Kahlo has been one of the major reasons. From all indications this new exhibit in Germany will delight all who are admirers of Frida Kahlo.



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Turner's New Price Tag

I just read where an auction house sold a painting by JMW Turner for a large amount of money. Turner's painting was sold to the J. Paul Getty Museum for a record amount . The painting was an 1839 masterpiece, Modern Rome- Camp Vaccino, and was part of a private collection until recently.

Always fascinated by nature, Turner surprisingly began painting with watercolors at an early age. He first exhibited at the Royal Academy of London at the age of 15. His landscape and rural scenes were popular from the very beginning. Later, in Turner's career, the abstract work became the primary focus. It has been reported that the great work produced by Turner in his years was not often offered for sale. This may explain why the recently purchased masterpiece of Rome has just now serviced and will be available for public viewing.

The work of this great master is amazing. I have had an opportunity to view up close several paintings by this artist. The Indianapolis Museum of art houses one of the largest collections of Turner’s paintings. The Panzer collection, a gift from an attorney, was acquired in 1957. One of the most outstanding in the collection, I believe, is the The Fifth Plague of Egypt, an oil on canvas. This large painting, in my opinion, sets Turner above all others. This painting reflects the imagination of the artist. Turner’s abstract watercolors have also been favorites.

If you would like to view more of Turner’s work and unable to visit a museum, there are several great art books available that offer not only insight into this great artist but provide a pictorial view of his major work.



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Art in the Park Collaboration

I previously wrote about the grand opening of 100 Acres: The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park at the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the evolving nature of art and nature. One of the most intriguing art installations in the art and nature park is Type A, a 2-man collaborative sculpture.

Type A Team Building (Align), consists of two 30 foot-wide metal rings suspended from telephone poles and trees. The sculpture is constructed so that the rings reflected shadows become one during the annual summer solstice. I viewed this structure 2 days before solstice. The shadows of the rings were close.

This piece of art work took a couple of yours to plan and is the result of the collaboration of the museum staff and artists to designate the time of alignment. This sculpture is very reflective of what the planners had in mine this site-a park where both the changing nature and art can be experienced. It will be interesting to view this art sculpture and others in different seasons of the year to see how the landscape, wildlife and artworks change.



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The Evolving Nature of Art and the Environment

I previously wrote about the grand opening of The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park in Indianapolis. This park made its introduction a couple of weeks ago as an extension of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. This is the second article in the series.

Since the grand opening of this Art and Nature Park, many of us have started to think more about the relationship of nature and art. As an art lover I have also been a lover of nature. My favorite past time years ago was photographing nature. I, like many others, have been delighted to be able to capture nature on film. Water was one of the most fascinating things I enjoyed photographing. The new Art and Nature Park has a 35-acre lake, known as “Hidden Lake”.

One of the eight inaugural installations is the Stratum Pier, a structure by female artists Kendall Buser that overlooks the Park’s 35-acre lake. This beautiful pier appears to drift over the shoreline, creating a layered look. You can even fish at the Hidden Lake. Stratum Pier reflects the artist’s interest in the merging of the natural and the man-made environment.

This new park is a wonderful example of horticulturist and artists working together. As we become more concerned with our environment, I look forward to seeing more art work that blends well with nature.

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Art and Nature

• This begins a series of articles about the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. The grand opening celebration for the art and nature park was this past weekend in Indianapolis. As a volunteer for the Indianapolis Museum of Art, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in this historic celebration. The weather was unusually hot and muggy but most in attendance were excited and enjoyed this new contemporary environment.
  
  The Indianapolis Museum of Art, the 5th largest museum in the country, is now home of one of the largest museum art parks.
  
  Artists have spent several years working closely with the museum to develop projects for the park. The park is located near a river that runs close to the museum’s 52-acre campus.
  
  The following artists and works of art installations made an inaugural appearance at the grand opening.
  
  Free Basket, Los Carpinteros
  Team Building (Align), Type A
  Park of Laments, Alfredo Jaar
  Funky Bones, Atelier Van Lieshout
  Stratum Pier, Kendall Buster
  Eden 2, Tea Makipaa
  Indianapolis Island, Andrea Zittel
  Bench Around the Lake, Jeppe Hein
  
  
  Future articles will discuss the 100 Acres: The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park and the evolving nature of art and nature as well as the prospect of a new model for sculpture parks for the 21st century.
  
  
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Carefully Stealing Porcelain

I just read where there are a group of thieves stealing very high priced porcelain from homes in England. It seems there have been 21 cases in the last three years.

It is amazing what people will steal. I have a hard time figuring out how a thief can be successful in stealing very fragile objects. According to the authorities, these robbers are very professional. I assume they are well prepared to carry off the loot in safe containers. It would be a disaster if one would go through all the effort of planning and stealing the loot and dropping and damaging it before they get to their destination.

When I attend local antique auctions, I have observed individuals with large sturdy containers (boxes, bags) and bubble wrap, newspapers, cloths . I assume they intend to purchase something very fragile like porcelain. I’m sure the thought of transporting the valuables safely has to be a top consideration of the porcelain robbers.

One of the objects recently stolen was a Meissen teapot in the form of a monkey.
According to the investigators the art pieces stolen are disposed of quickly. Sometimes these pieces show up on internet auctions for sale. It might be interesting to find out what has recently been stolen and then search the online auction sites to see if anything familiar shows up. Perhaps a porcelain monkey might be up for grabs.


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Art Fairs Today

I love art fairs. Just this past weekend there was a major art fair in Hong Kong-- It was the 2010 International Art Fair or Art HK 10. This is the 3rd year for the Hong Kong Art Fair. This 4-day event was expected to bring in hoards of art collectors, gallery directors, curators, educators and art lovers.

The Hong Kong International Art Fair reminds me of the first world’s fairs. The Great Exhibition of Works of the Industry of all Nations was the beginning of world’s fairs. This international fair was held in 1851 London. The purpose of this fair was to provide a place to exhibit the glass works of the industry from all nations. Of course, these international expositions were also important for national pride. This exhibition attracted about 6 million visitors.

The purpose of the Hong Kong art fair was to provide a spot light for contemporary and modern art in Asia. Representatives from 155 galleries from 29 countries were present. From the reviews I have had an opportunity to review so far, Art HK 10 was a success. I not sure of the attendance but I’m sure it was impressive. This fair certainly continues to put Hong Kong on the cultural art map.

You can find art books, art exhibition catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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The Paris Heist

I just read about the robbery at the Musee d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris and was fascinated that this could happen in this day and age.

It was reported that a broken alarm system was the culprit that assisted thieves in stealing not only a priceless Picasso and Matisse and other works of art totaling 5 in all.

I wonder what they will do with the stolen work. It is estimated that the lone thief got away with over a 100 million dollars worth of paintings.

It’s troubling to contemplate that there are individuals that have the nerve to pull off a major theft of art work. It is also just as disturbing to imagine there is an underground market for this bounty. In the past art thieves have not been successful in getting buyers for their heist. Authorities do believe that it will be difficult to sell these very high profile pieces.

Who are these individuals that would want and buy stolen art work? How sad to want something so bad that you would consider doing something illegal. Not only is it illegal but these greedy and selfish individuals who participate in the thefts end up depriving many others from having the experience to view great art work in a public setting. Art works in museums are for the masses.

You can find art books and art auction catalogs at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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A New Raphael

I recently read where a painting just discovered is thought to be an original Raphael painting. This would certainly be an enormous find and create a lot of excitement in the art world.

This painting in question had been stored in the Italian ducal palace since the 1970’s. It was discovered while taking inventory. It was first thought to be a copy but because it was enclosed in a gilded 17th century frame it is speculated that this may have been done by Raphael. It will have to go through a series of examinations by art historians.

What amazes me is that when all the analytical and chemical testing has been completed, it will still not be conclusive that this is an original work of art by the great Renaissance master. Art critics and historians will have to study the painting to come to some final decision.

The question might be why so much attention is being paid to this possible new discovery. Raphael is considered to be one of the three major figures of the High Renaissance School. Along with Leonardo and Michelangelo, Raphael who began painting at a very young age stands out as the master.

It seems that we are often rediscovering work by famous artists. Some one takes a closer look at a piece of art work and sees something others have missed over the years. It would be an important find if this work is determined to be an original of the man many believe to be the master of the Renaissance.


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A Record for Works of Art

I recently read an article about the upturn in the sales of artwork during the current recession. The upcoming sale of Picasso’s painting of Marie-Therese Walter by Christie’s, New York, this May is expected to bring in a record breaking amount. This follows a string of significant sales by the auction houses early this year and this past fall.

According to the author if the Picasso sale goes as expected, this will be the second time in four months that the record for an auction has been broken. What makes this particularly noteworthy is that we are still experiencing a global recession. The explanation of course can be attributed to who is purchasing the artwork. It is pretty obvious that those having the least financial difficulties in these times are buying art.

This also appears to be the best time to place pieces on the market. While there is not an abundance of artwork for sale these days, the items offered at auction houses are of particular interest to those who are looking to buy specific pieces of art at good prices.

There will be a lot of people watching to see if Christie’s Picasso auction this spring will break another record. If it does, this may be the deciding factor in the return of the auction houses dominating the sales of great art work.

You can find art books, art auction and exhibition catalogs at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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Art in Unlikely Places

I recently read about the art collection in the Dallas Cowboys new stadium. This is a nice art collection that includes privately-commissioned and funded pieces which are mostly abstract. In preparing to welcome hundreds of thousand of visitors from all over the continent for the Super Bowl next year, the new Dallas Stadium will have some resemblance to an art gallery.

The art work for the Dallas Stadium was created by 14 living artists. Some of the artists are from the local area. The colorful works of these artists are displayed in the concession stands, large concourses and restrooms. This newly designed stadium could be called a work of art. Having a large public stadium to house art work is not a totally new concept. In ancient times the sports arenas represented some of the best art work for the time period. There is no doubt that the Romans enjoyed the magnificent splendor of the Colosseum.

Another unlikely place for art can be found at the Indianapolis International Airport, one of the newest airports in the United States. The airport was designed by HOK Architects in St. Louis and AeroDesign Group in Indianapolis.

The airport contains 4 million dollars worth of public art. The art work was selected from 550 submissions for this state-of-art airport. The intent is to broaden the cultural experience for the visitors to Indianapolis. The permanent collection of art consists of 36 pieces. All pieces share the common themes of flight, nature, changing seasons, and unique features of Indiana culture.

Many individuals today who have never stepped foot into an art gallery or museum can and probably will experience art in a whole different way.


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New Art

I was recently introduced to contemporary Asian art. It seems that this is the big news this spring in major auction houses. Sotheby’s will be having a major auction presenting Chinese Contemporary Art this year.

There are many reasons for the growing popularity of Chinese contemporary art. Those of us who watched the Beijing Olympic Stadium or Birds Nest were no doubt impressed with the creativity of the Chinese artist. There has been an increase in popularity of Asian art in New York and London. In 2009, the auction sales of Asian Contemporary Art began to rise. This year’s sale in Hong Kong with 170 pieces is expected to be over $12 million.

According to an article, Chinese contemporary artists can be divided in 2 groups: the overseas Chinese artists and the China-based artists. The artistic qualities of the overseas Chinese artists who seem to be influenced by many foreign cultures are the most popular for collectors.

This may be a great time for the small-time collector to start taking notice of contemporary Asian art. It seems like new artists are arriving on the scene everyday and affordable art work should be in abundance.

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Cutting Art

The hot topic at many school districts across the country today is budget cuts. Usually it does not take much time before the subject of eliminating art classes is bought up. The school districts in the city I live in are not a lot different that those in larger cities like New York and are having these same discussions.

I know a lot has been written about the value of the arts and art education and the creative mind. It seems sad that we have now come to the place that visual arts are deemed less important than other disciplines for students.

I have been in public schools where art is the only class where some students become engaged in learning. I recently had a substitute teaching experience in a small elementary school. I was taking over for the visual art teacher. A few rowdy fifth graders entered the art room, noted that the regular art teacher was absent, and began playing and talking loudly. The project we were to work on that day was to create a logo for a small department within the school district. The logo was to be created and completed during class. The students were told that the best entries, which would be decided by the art teacher,and would be entered in a contest. I explained that the winning logo would be placed on stationary, t-shirts and the internet.

Once I got their attention and explained our project for the day the students became involved and at times you could almost hear a pin drop in the room.

If you take away art, there will be nothing left for many students.

I believe it is a sad reflection on our culture that the decision makers would even consider eliminating art in our schools.


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Art and Theft

It seems that not too many days goes by that I don’t read about art work being stolen. It would seem that this is a growing trend. I don't mean the theft but the writing about it in the media. The theft of art work has probably existed since the beginning of art, but today it is mentioned more by the press.

In the past few months, there have been several reports of or news about thefts in the art world.

The following are some of the articles I recently found:

• Thieves make off with massive Russian banner
• Works of Rousseau and Picasso stolen from private villa in France
• Stolen Juan Gris painting recovered
• Gardner Museum heist of 1990 still unsolved

You would think that with so much attention paid to the theft of art that this is a critical issue for the art world today. I agree stealing art is a problem but it is not exactly earth shattering news. It does however capture the attention of readers everywhere. A less exciting topic on art for example, “the security procedures for guarding valuable art” would probably not receive as much attention.

I cannot say for sure what the appeal is except maybe intrigue. It sounds like something right out of a fiction novel. I can hardly wait to read about the next great art theft in the news.

You can find art books, art exhibition catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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Art and Nature

One of the latest trends today for many large museums is to include an outdoor space to provide gardening as a visual art feature. The purpose of these parks is to provide the individual with a deep connection with their surroundings.

Several museums are choosing to add to art gardens as a very important part of their museum. Sculpture gardens are showing up all over the country. A few museums have purchased historical property and have developed the property surrounding the structure as a garden or park.

Including a garden or the outdoors as part of the museum is not a new concept. One of the older established nature parks is located at the Winterthur country estate near Wilmington, Delaware. The popular informal gardens surround the house and are located on 963 acres of meadows and woodlands.

There will soon be a new arts and garden park. The Indianapolis Museum of Art will celebrate the opening a 100-acre art and nature Park this spring. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park will contain woodlands, wetlands and will be one of the largest art parks in the United States.

I like this new trend. I love the outdoors and I love art.


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Magazines Self Destruct

I am a long time reader and collector of art books and magazines. In the last few years I have read a lot about the decline of both the newspaper and magazine publication business. As reported, the economic conditions have forced the publication businesses to cut back and in some instances to fold. The magazine business is doing a little better than the disappearing newspapers but I still find this troubling.

Over the years, I have subscribed to several top quality magazines. Recently however there have been some changes made that I believe were not good for the subscriber or the publisher. Magazines are shrinking in size, number of issues as well as making cost- cutting mailing procedures. One particular magazine I have often looked forward to receiving in the mail has discontinued enclosing the magazine in a mailer. If you haven’t experienced this personally you can almost imagine what is happening today. I believe the last 3 out of 6 issues arrived in my mailbox in unacceptable condition due to poor handling by the postal service.

After discussing this on the phone with the circulation department and sending a letter to the editor, I feel that a satisfactory solution is not in the works. I have been told that due to the costs it is no longer possible to insure the magazines arrive to customers in the condition as shipped. I believe this is like saying we don’t care if our publication is not in acceptable condition when you the customer receives it.

I think we can blame the economy for a lot of things that are happening today, but I feel good customer service is not one of them. I believe consumers are still interested in quality art publications. I know I am.


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Claiming Pissarro

I read an article recently about a Pissarro painting that had been stolen but later found and sold during World War II. The painting has changed hands many times since and is now the center of a potential U.S. court case. The painting now resides at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection in Spain.

U. S. resident, Claude Cassirer, is claiming ownership for the 1897 painting, Rue Saint Honore—Afternoon , Rain Effect, that was stolen from his grandmother. Although the painting was stolen by Nazi’s, Cassirer’s grandmother, the original owner, was compensated by Germany. Spain now possesses the painting and does not believe the case belongs in the U.S. courts.

We will probably learn more about this unusual claim as arguments are presented in the months to come.

Camille Pissarro, one of the leaders of the Impressionist movement, would probably be amazed about the case if he were alive today. Pissarro excelled not only in painting but also with various graphic techniques. His work can be found in many public collections.

You can find a great selection of art books, art exhibition catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


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Hooray for Dr. Seuss

A few years ago, I had an opportunity to work in an elementary school library. I always felt a lot of excitement when the month of March approached. Some of you may know that Dr. Seuss (also know as Ted Geisel) is synonymous with reading as far as elementary schools are concerned. As a matter of fact Read Across America Day coincides with Dr. Seuss’ birthday on March 2.

Each year the National Education Association promotes the nation’s largest reading celebration on Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Most schools plan some type of reading event during the period. In my small school we would decorate the library with everything we could find about Dr. Seuss. I would bring in my collection of stuff dolls, Sam I Am, The Grinch and others along with of my personal collection of Dr. Seuss books. My greatest enjoyment was opening a Dr. Seuss book to read to the young students who sat patiently listening and appeared to be hypnotized.

The dozens of books by Dr. Seuss continue to be popular with both the young and old. The rhyming words as well as the pictures of the unforgettable characters all contributed to the success of the author and cartoonist, Dr. Seuss.

The book, The Secret Art of Dr. Seuss, contains some of the art work of Ted Geisel created for his own pleasure . This book along with other art books, art exhibition catalogs and magazine back issues can be found at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


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Art Making a Comeback

A newspaper article reported that recent auctions may indicate that art lovers are buying again. A record was set for the amount paid at an auction for art work. Some experts, however, are cautioning that this may not be the end of the global financial decline that has slowed the sales of art work in recent months.

A large auction house reported the sale of one of Giaocometti’s scupltures, “Walking Man I”, for more that $100 million dollars. Reported also was the sale of Gustav Klimt’s landscape “Church in Cassone” for 42.4 million. Art auction houses for the last year or more have been slow to generate estimated prices for many of their items.

Maybe art is making a comeback. Has the economic downturn ended for the art world? We will just have to wait and see.

If you are looking for some post-auction catalogs, check out Nella’s Books and Collectibles. You will also find a nice selection of art books, art catalogs and magazine back issues.

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Painting the Stormy Seas

Winslow Homer, one of the great painters of the 19th Century, was a self-taught artist. He devoted a significant part of his career to painting crashing waves and stormy seas. It has been said that Homer had the ability to recreate nature’s harsh and stormy weather unlike any other artist.

Originally an illustrator he moved on to paintings—first oil then watercolors. He was the first to display his watercolors as finished works. He believed in using marine watercolors that were luminous and bright. The medium of watercolors is credited to Homer.

If you have had an opportunity to view Homer’s work, it becomes obvious why he is known as the major American marine painter and watercolorist of all time.

You can find books on Homer Winslow and other artist at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

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An Artist in the Making

I had the opportunity to volunteer at a museum on MLK day. I worked in the the arts and crafts area where we invited guest to create a legacy timeline that would be presented on a gallery wall. Using 3 x 5 cards, visitors were instructed to add something memorable either in words or picture dating from the 1990's to the future.

Many of the young people were of course thinking about the future. Many of this age group submitted cards reflecting this time period. I was amazed by one young boy's work. This young boy sat down and after listening to the instructions began to quickly draw on his card with a blue colored pencil. He drew with a lot of detail what looked like two tall structures. Later he added red lines to fill in some of the spaces.

I asked him what he was drawing and he said it was the Twin Towers in New York. I learned from his mother that he loved art and had demonstrated this by unfortunately painting his bedroom walls . After the drawing was completed the boy took a pair of scissors and began to cut the card. His mother and I were able to stop the young man from destroying his work. We taped what remained on another 3 x 5 card and it was added to the legacy timeline on the museum's wall.

This reminds me of the stories I have read about the lives of some of the great artists of the past. I wonder how much art work could have been saved if a mother had stepped in?

Visit Nella's Books and Collectibles and discover the art of reading.

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Dismantling the Past

It has been said that Ettore Sottsass, architect/designer, devoted his life and work to dismantling the past. Recently some of Sottsass' work was exhibited in New York. Sottsass' career spanned over 60 years and produced work in the fields of architecture, furniture, and industrial design, glass, ceramics, painting and photography. He spent much of his career designing landmark products.

Sottsass experimented with many artistic materials but had a great fascination with ceramics. His first ceramics were made in 1956. Although the ceramics were not popular early on some believe this was his framework for developing the radical design group, Memphis.

In the 1980’s breaking the rules began along with experimenting with the unconventional. Sottsass has been credited with being a major contributor of the postmodern design movement.

You can find some of the work of the design collective, Memphis in a Sotheby’s catalog, Memphis, La Collection Karl Lagerfeld , at Nella’s Books and Collections.

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Finding Dali

I recently read that Salvador Dali’s 1942 painting on a stage curtain was discovered at the Carnegie Museum of Art. This stage curtain was painted by Dali for the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. It appears that the curtain was lost after it was transported in 1976. Surprisingly this huge oil-on-canvas painting was discovered in the storage area of the museum.


Dali of course is the Spanish Surrealist known for using realistic techniques to present hallucinatory scenes. Dali was said to have been inspired by his dreams. The artist would place a canvas beside his bed and gaze at it before sleeping. He recorded what he believed were his dreams when he woke up. I can imagine that when this work was rediscovered, many may have thought they were dreaming.

You can find books on Salvador Dali along with other art books and catalogs at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


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A New Theory on Van Gogh

For many of us Vincent Van Gogh will always be a fascinating figure and a mystery. Much has been written about this sensitive and passionate artists and his self-mutilation. A recent article states that a clue has been discovered as to the reason why Van Gogh cut off his ear. This information comes from the latest discovery and publications of the new edition of Vincent Van Gogh’s letters. The letters were published this past October.

According to the article Vincent learned of his brother’s engagement to a young lady and this was probably the trigger for cutting off his ear. His devoted brother, Theo, provided friendship as well as money for years. Van Gogh may have been concerned that this would all come to an end. Van Gogh eventually discovered that his brother’s loyalty was not affected because of the engagement.

Van Gogh will always be of interest to many of us and there will probably be new theories in the future. Undoubtedly we will learn more of Van Gogh’s life through the many letters that have surfaced.

You can find books on Vincent Van Gogh, other art books and magazines at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.



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