Don’t Put Artists on a Pedestal

Don’t Put Artists on a Pedestal. Episode 11 of Off the Canvas with Jenn Van de Vooren Does this statement about artists and pedestals give you some kind of reaction? About art and artists? Or about me? Or about yourself in relation to that statement? What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts about my thoughts on why we shouldn’t put artists on pedestals because it is t good for anyone! It just creates more separation and reinforcement of an old myth that artists (of any form or medium) are born as artists and then there’s everyone else. So not true! Everyone is an artist in their own unique, perfect way. The artists “we” turn into celebrities just have more people who enjoy their work than artists who have fewer followers, that’s all! And there are just as many (if not more) people who dislike their work. So, there really isn’t a clear answer or standard of which artists should be given the pedestal anyway. Sometimes artists aren’t even given much recognition until after they’re dead! So, their work was the same when they were alive but it’s just the amount of eyes on it that elevates it’s status. I am 100% in favour of encouraging, supporting, and appreciating artists and their art. Of course, I am! Art is magnificent in every way!! I just don’t support the idea of viewing artists as genius or superhuman or having answers on how others should live life and be successful. They are artists making art and sharing their beautiful gifts and ideas… please allow their art to touch your heart and resonate with you. Hopefully it inspires you to make your own art and be more of who you really are, rather than make you feel inferior because you don’t “measure up”. I also hope “successful” artists don’t make you want to abandon your own true art and copy theirs because you love it so much.

I would love to hear your thoughts or stories about this topic or any other art-related subject. Please drop me a line.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Off the Canvas.
Onward, Beautiful Soul!
xoxo Jenn

Jenn Van de Vooren
Artist & Creative Guide
Jvandevooren.com
Instagram: @jennvandevooren