While I was in New York, I attended an art show in some lofts in Bushwick. I was not planning attending it but it was taking place in the building I was staying. Upon entering the show, I was overwhelmed by the terrible art and the terrible people that were there. The greed, the lack of talent, and the overall almost "jockish" attitude these people had made me ill. They made me never want to describe myself as artist. Words cannot express the disappointment I found in that room. Needless to say, I drank myself into a scene and I know that wasn't the right thing to do. But it sickened me to see these people call themselves artists and watch buyers eat up their shit. I still feel harsh saying this but from the people I had spoken to (only two of them being artists) this was the impression that I had received. New York, that night you’re art scene was a failure. Then again, what grounds do I have to stand on? I would sell out in a second to get out poverty that I find myself in.
mathu thomas squilla
Hey bud! Honestly, I have to say that my New York "artist" experience has been extremely similar to what you're talking about. However, in all fairness I have to say that my Gainesville "artist" experience has been much the same. Coincidence? I think not. I have long been of the opinion that art is often times a blatant excuse for both self-indulgence and a righteous mentality. Rembrandt was an artist. Da Vinci was an artist. Warhol was an asshole who convinced even bigger assholes that art was a commodity. I'm sure what you experienced was mediocrity that knows no bounds. It was soulless expression from soulless people. This city is rife with possibility but also with dead-ends. The trick is identifying the worthy and dismissing the disreputable. It is a balancing act. It is the nature of the beast. On a positive note, it was great to see you outside of what I now refer to as "that place." I'll have to come down to Richmond some time to check out your scene. The Capital of the Confederacy seems like an interesting place to party. Holla atcha boy!
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P.S. I like the photos, especially the ones with the Langster!
Thanks buddy.. We got to hang out again soon. Tell those kids I said hello.
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