also see FOODSCAPE by Artist Michael Hamilton
also see Artscape 1999 - Present et al
Artscape 1999 in Baltimore Maryland. Maybe we were too
harsh and critical of last years event. We've recieved feedback over
the last couple of months from a few artists that read this article and
participated in Artscape. There really was no "negative" feedback,
nor any denial of things written in this article. If we did not make
it clear, our gripe was the influx of micro breweries at last years Artscape
and the variety of art and artisans present. Today I take back my slight
of the artists, maybe I was so influenced by the dejected look of some
particpants and the comments of the visitors, so I apologize if I offended
any artists. I do stand firm on my premise that beer should not be
available, at least not on the grounds of the event. Isn't it enough
to draw huge crowds with the best artists and artisans, music and live
performances, exhibits and the art cars? Would Artscape crowds dwindle
if the beer stands were replaced by more art and cultural exhibits?
If it was up to me "I would leave the money on the dresser" and make Artscape
an event for the artists. Your Email
feedback and comments welcome.
Baltimore, MD.--This year you could hear complaints from both sides of the aisle!
While discussing Artscape with several friends...the major theme
was disappointment. Not the weather, not the time, not the heat,
it was disappointment over the entire presentation. Most just did
not think Artscape was just that, art. People were left with no reason
to attend next year. A Baltimore gallery owner said,"...they should
just call it beerscape..." a friend commented"...they just don't seem to
have art anymore...". Even several artists hinted at their disappointment,
one said, "...at least I made my gas money....". This coming
from artist who traveled hundreds of miles to make this years Artscape.
Artists selected to this event should not remember Artscape 2000 minus
1 for making "gas money".
I did not enjoy this years version
of Artscape. It seems variety of art was nonexistent. How many
paintings and photographs can you look at and remember the last one.
I think they should cut back on the free entertainment and concentrate
more on the art. Do you really need to have micro breweries at ArtScape?
I love drinking beer but what on earth does beer have to do with art. 
I
think politics, or I should write, wrong politics ruled this years Artscape.
These juried shows are notorious for the "who do you know or what should
we show" syndrome. Whatever happened to the "may the best person win" or
"hard work pays off" rules? Not all the artist or art at this years
festival could be classified as best in their field. I feel for the
artists that came away from Artscape disappointed. Would they come
back next year, most said yes but a surprising number said no.
All bad, of course not. You
did see, listen, and participate with some super artist. The bands
were great and it's free. You got to see some of your friends and
neighbors enjoying artscape. There was art to be found outside and inside.
My favorites included the artfully decorated cars and busses found on Mount
Royal.
For next year, put the art back into
artscape...drop the politics and beer...make Artscape the premier event
it should be...showcase the best talent available!!!
