Purchasing Original Art

Sometimes I make art. The creative process of producing art is irregular in my life, depending on many factors: time available after my three day jobs or giving in to the sometimes absolute need for expression, to name just two.


Professionally, in my Docent Art Program, I talk about art. I teach adults how to bring mounted fine art reproductions into classrooms and have a blast talking to the children about the art. Well, actually I mostly teach them how to ask open-ended questions and then listen to the children. And listen, we must, because they have a lot to say and not many opportunities to be listened to without judgement.


Sometimes people suggest that I bring in examples of local artists artists and I have to explain to them the somewhat indescribable differences between great art and not-so-great art. Talking about art that is not so great is not enjoyable, is strained and the conversation, if there is one, does not last long. Great art, no matter what the style, time period or subject matter involves more then initially meets the eye, speaks a universal language, has layers of meaning, has an emotional impact on the viewer and even the techniques and materials used are interesting to look at and talk about. One of my measurement tools of great art is that it excites my eyes. My eyes want to keep looking and look again. They dart back and forth. Then the eyes start to communicate with the brain and heart. Ideas and emotions begin to surface. There are no judgements interfering with that process. It is exciting, draws me in and demands my attention and my responses are elicited. They have surfaced and must escape.


While I'll never own a Picasso or van Gogh or Cassatt or O'Keefe, I can still afford to own great art that meets my definition of depth, intrigue and beauty rising from the soul.


Last night I walked into the Whitman, MA town hall for their 3rd Cake, Champagne & Art event sponsored by the local Mass Cultural Council. While I was looking forward to sampling the champagne, I had no expectation of purchasing anylocal original art. It is hardly ever worth purchasing.


I walked in, looked to the right and was immediately drawn to one area displaying expressive multi-media paintings of people and architecture. They were compelling and if I could afford one, I knew right away I would purchase one. Deciding which was the only dilemma.


I am now the proud owner of Jeremy (as seen right) painted in 2009 by 28 year old Mathew Gillis Hall of Whitman, MA. Remember his name. The day will come when you will say, "I remember when Cathy Drinan tried to tell me about him." (The textures and depth of character are not evident with this small copy of the image. I will try to get one that is worthy of and indicative of the original, 40" by 69".)


Purchasing original art allows us the very special opportunity to connect with other people on a level we could all use more of. Standing before great art is itself a feeling of honor. To meet the artist is another. To have the treasure in your home to be enjoyed on a daily basis and shared with others, perpetuates the honor. It connects you to humanity.
Jeremy looks at you with beauty and depth. I don't know his story. I only know that there is one.


Thank you, Mathew Gillis Hall and thank you, Jeremy.