Class Commentary: 08-02-18

Well, this day made me realize I definitely need to work on public speaking. Elizabeth Alexander came across to me very weak; her presentation was problematic. Would a better presentation have sold her work better? Most assuredly. Audiences don't want wishy-washy expressions of thoughts, they want concise confidence. Arrangement of ideas in a manner that is fluid yet regimented. Many artist, their work I completely did not admire, I have seen speak and because their presentations were so well constructed there was at least a redemptive quality that saved their work. Artist must be able to sell themselves unless they can get someone else to do it for them and that is not likely. Influences must be articulated more effectively. Leonardo is a generic influence; Elizabeth's knowledge of him and his context must surely be greater than that which she discussed. Circles and squares representing the heavens and the Earth goes farther back than Leonardo(it's odd when he is referred to as da Vinci). It seemed just to be an obsession with Leonardo, rather than a true insight into the influences he has had in her work.

I doubt anyone else in the class realize her work does relate to others in the craft field. Woodworking and ceramics are heavily into the idea of the vessel and making objects that do not work as the object's original intention. I have even made ceramics that their function is denied. Why is this a common occurrence? With the modern machine of industry there is little need for handmade items with function. A wheel thrown coffee cup is frivolous when a mass produced mold made cup is less expensive. So, Naturally the market for the handmade is going to be for those who not need a cup for use, but for some other purpose. That purpose being much like the formal living room that Elizabeth's grandmother had in her house. It was not for consumption but for the psychological perks her grandmother received.