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"Knowledge of craft is lost. This results in the wheeling and dealing of ideas, and unfortunately yields, more often than not, a poorly crafted bi-product that glorifies the calcified philosophical notions of dead men."ix
Caroline Wells Chandler
MFA, Yale University, Painting, 2011Perhaps the most detrimental idea for young artists is this antiquated notion left over from the 80's of 'art stardom.' This ageist idea fits well within the mindset of a youth generation that desires fame for what is often underdeveloped, and thus, mediocre work.
In the West, young artists today find themselves at an interesting crossroads studying at the University. An emphasis on learning skills has been removed by a generation of artists who lack the ability to teach them, because they themselves are 'unlearned.' Knowledge of craft is lost. This results in the wheeling and dealing of ideas, and unfortunately yields, more often than not, a poorly crafted bi-product that glorifies the calcified philosophical notions of dead men. This approach destroys the idiosyncratic and intellectual prowess of a young artist who wishes to be their own cartographer and discover terrains on their own terms equipped with
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skills to do so. I am still waiting to see the result of what I hope will be the long awaited trend, in academia and in the practice of the artist, to bridge both skill and theory coupled with intuition to effectively summon emotion within a work of art.
There is an 'in it to win it' mentality that tends to contaminate the recent graduate. This is as absurd as a prepubescent boy trying to grow a full beard when they can only sprout feathery whiskers. A good gauge to see if you are ready to share your work publicly is to compare it to the good stuff. If it doesn't measure up, spare the world of more bad art. In all seriousness, wherever you move after school, especially if it is a new place, take time to research the various platforms. Do not rush to sign a contract with a gallery, especially if they cannot sell your work. Most importantly make your work. Make good work. Talk to other artists/writers/ thinkers about your work. Hopefully you will have the gift of community as a result from completing your MFA or BFA. Hang out. Most importantly, don't forget to enjoy it; be courageous about the things you make; and always be honest to your vision. ⊗
