Let’s Beat Art Fatigue with Local Art
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Let’s Beat Art Fatigue with Local Art
Art is everywhere: in the office, at home, and in doctors' waiting rooms. Some pieces are unique, while others are the same tired prints—some familiar, others unknown. They all share a commonality: a drab and uninspiring appearance, lacking the ability to stir the soul or provide pleasant viewing for extended periods. They are forgettable and sometimes even grating after prolonged exposure. Despite this, they are not offensive. However, not all art needs to be provocative or tell a story.
How often have we seen pictures of cabins in the woods, peaceful streams in fields, or noir images of serene cities hanging in office spaces? Initially, these images offer a lovely reprieve from the high-speed traffic of the city. They provide a mental getaway to remote, peaceful locations.
But what happens when you stare at these pictures day in and day out? Do you still find that stream and its frozen wildlife peaceful? Or does it become a taunting image of a life you will never experience as you click away on your computer, knowing you will never know that tranquility? Perhaps it's time to retire these pictures. But what do you replace them with?
Do you replace them with more corporate-approved art from companies specializing in non-offensive, forgettable art? Curated by faceless individuals, perhaps living in that cabin in the woods with the light on?
Corporate art is everywhere; every social media site features the same Corporate memphis illustrations with its flat color, geometric design of big bodies and little heads. Every business displays some form of drab abstract print that blends into the walls or shadows of the hallway, only visible as you pass by on your way home. Corporate art is clip art in frames. It says nothing, lacks uniqueness, and has been used by at least five people in the last hour. Corporate art is the issue, and we have all become accustomed to it. It's time to reconnect with our roots, our identity.
I've worked in government buildings, car dealerships, and offices of manufacturers. I've traveled to many states and stayed at many hotels. I've even promoted the same drab paintings to hotels and offices. The one thing I've noticed about all these places is the same drab pictures—those with no names, just SKU numbers, or those pop art pictures outlined in people. Keith Haring did more than just those feel-good paintings, but that is how we remember his work—corporate art.
Once, I returned to my hometown and stayed at a hotel for a day. After checking in, I went to my room and turned on the light, expecting to see some abstract piece of work on the walls that I would soon forget. Instead, I saw a picture of the place where I grew up and had my first job—Lincoln Log Cabin. It made sense; I was in the Land of Lincoln. On the outskirts of town lies the last homestead of Thomas Lincoln and his stepmother, Sarah Bush Lincoln, the parents of Abraham Lincoln when he was an attorney in Springfield, Ill. Under the picture was the name of the photographer and the location of the cabin.
I felt attached to the piece; this was my hometown of Charleston, IL, in a picture on a wall. I knew that place; I had great memories of it. I think someone visiting the town would feel intrigued to visit the cabin because of this one picture in this one room of a hotel.
Art, especially in restaurants, government facilities open to the public, and hotels, should feature more local art. It gives visitors a sense of the spirit of the people in a place they may not be familiar with. It may spark a desire for exploration in someone from that town to go out and see what they missed. Even if it's an abstract painting, it speaks to the soul of the area and its residents.
Local art is not just a nostalgic throwback; it offers tangible benefits to businesses and communities. Featuring local art can enhance the ambiance of a space, making it more welcoming and engaging for visitors and employees alike. It can also foster a sense of community pride and identity, creating a unique atmosphere that reflects the local culture and history. Moreover, supporting local artists helps boost the local economy, providing opportunities and exposure for creatives in the area.
However, some may argue that local art is more expensive or risky to display compared to corporate art. While it's true that original pieces can come with a higher price tag, the investment pays off in terms of quality and uniqueness. Local artists can also work with businesses to create commissioned pieces that align with their brand and aesthetic, reducing the perceived risk of displaying unconventional art.
Furthermore, the variety within local art itself is vast, catering to diverse tastes and settings. Whether it's a landscape painting, an abstract piece, a sculpture, or a photograph, local art can be as versatile as corporate art, with the added benefit of a personal touch and a story behind each piece.
It's time to reclaim our spaces with art that resonates and inspires. Embrace the unique talent within your community by showcasing local artists in your offices, hotels, and public spaces. Not only does this enrich the environment, but it also fosters a sense of pride and connection to the local culture. Let's break away from the mundane and celebrate the vibrant creativity around us. Support local artists, spark curiosity in visitors, and contribute to a thriving local economy. Make the choice today to transform your spaces with art that truly speaks to the heart and soul of your community.
------------------------------------------If you're interested in transforming your space with unique, locally inspired art, I’m available for art consulting, graphic design, and illustration commissions. My art is also available for purchase at www.matthewdyeart.com. Let's beat art fatigue together and bring meaningful, captivating art to every corner of our lives.