The Artistic Face of Rejection and Acceptance: Navigating the Complexities of Local Art Shows

Art is a subjective and often challenging field, where the line between acceptance and rejection can often be blurry. This article delves into the personal experience of an artist who faced the disappointment of having a high-quality piece declined from a local art show. Through this narrative, it explores the various reasons behind such occurrences and provides valuable insights for contemporary artists navigating the complex world of local art exhibitions.

A Forgotten Lesson From My Early Twenties

Back in the 1980s during my college days at UTEP, I was deeply engaged in the world of art. I had competed in several art exhibitions and won awards too. My medium was stain painting in acrylic washes on raw canvas, a unique blend of traditional and modern techniques.

One day, I stumbled upon a call for artists by a local watercolor association, which spurred me to prepare a collection of my best work. I took care of everything from framing and labeling to bio and photographic slides. However, despite all my efforts, fate had another surprise in store. Upon arrival at the venue to deliver my work, I was met with the awkward news that my submission would not be accepted because I used canvas instead of paper!

The Politics of Art

This incident was a painful yet enlightening experience. The jurors were mostly retired folk and “Sunday painters” with traditional tastes. My work, on the other hand, was more modern and innovative, which perhaps made it not fit well within their chosen aesthetic. This realization highlighted the stark reality that artistic acceptance is often heavily influenced by personal and societal preferences.

The experience taught me that sometimes, you might be too masculine, too feminine, not light-skinned enough, or too complex for the audience to appreciate your work. Conversely, you might be selected because your work aligns with the themes or simply because someone recognized your talent. These are the unwritten rules of the art world, which can be both perplexing and frustrating.

Real Artists and Spring Art Festivals

Let's look at another perspective. In my county, there was a spring arts festival where artists typically showcased their work. However, I noticed that none of the most celebrated artists in our community participated in this festival. They preferred to exhibit in other prestigious venues, demonstrating that the label of a real artist is not solely determined by participation in such events.

The incident at a library branch further illustrated this point. I was invited to give a presentation, but the librarian, recognizing my presence as a real artist by the exhibit at the airport, emphasized that true artists were not just those who exhibited in the local festivals. This moment underscored the nuances of what constitutes an artist in the community.

Lessons for Contemporary Artists

For those feeling slighted at not being chosen for their local art show, it's essential to remember that artistic selection is multifaceted and often mysterious. The jurors' tastes, personal connections, and thematic considerations all play a role. What matters is that you continue to hone your craft and present your work confidently.

Sharing this personal experience and the broader context of the art industry’s dynamics can provide a valuable perspective. Whether you are an art enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or a seasoned professional, these insights can help navigate the challenges of the art world with resilience and grace.

And who knows, your unique perspective and innovative techniques might just make it into the next exhibition despite the odds!