Sounding More Art
Savvy
Want to sound like someone who is art savvy? Make sure you
don't use the following art "faux pas."
• Using the word "seriagraph" - Actually, there is no such
thing as a seriagraph. What you are attempting to reference is
a form of printmaking known as a serigraph, screenprint or
using past terminology, a silkscreen print.
• Using the word "sketches" - Those who are knowledgeable
about art use the term "drawings" instead of sketches.
• Using the word "picture - The word picture suggests an
item that is more decorative in nature, while the word
"painting" denotes a valuable work of art. The word decorative
tends to be used as a put down when commenting on the
desirability of a work of art, somewhat akin to the word
"interesting".
• Using the words "it's just a print" - There have been
prints that have sold for several hundred thousand dollars, for
example, works by Mary Cassatt, Pablo Picasso, Hokusai, and
Sharaku. Aside from value, some artists did not create
paintings, so their entire form of expression used printmaking.
Sometimes effects achieved with printmaking cannot be
accomplished with painting or drawing directly. If you meant
"just a reproduction or a reproductive print", then you are
commenting on a photograph of an existing artwork, which does
not constitute an original work of art. This is entirely
proper.
• Falling into the "art trap" - Whenever you are asked what
you think about a painting, check to see if there are similar
paintings in the room before responding. A family member or
close friend may the proud artist. This is what I call the "art
trap." A sharp observer will recognize that each piece is
signed with the same name. Find something positive to say. Life
in the art lane can be treacherous, but it is just like
functioning as an expert witness, Think before you speak.
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