That is the question posited by artist and author, Ted Mikulski.  Yup he’s my cousin…but that’s beside the point.  When I first heard about Ted’s plan to publish an art book and learned it’s title, Art Is Dead, I thought “Ted, are you crazy? Of course art is not dead.”  But is it?

As a teacher of art appreciation at Tunxis Community College, Mikulski was surprised to learn that a shockingly low number of students could name their favorite contemporary artist.  When asked this question on the first day of class over the course of several semesters, Mikulski reports that only 2 or 3 of his students each semester could name their favorite LIVING artist.  Some students named their friends, some named Van Gogh.  Interestingly if asked the question”Who is your favorite band or musician?” the examples were plentiful.

The book is Mikulski’s response to “America’s lack of appreciation for art” and offers the opinions and thoughts of 16 contemporary artists, sculptors and photographers.  Accordingly to Mikulski, “I have found through my research that many artists are shocked that I could even consider art to be dead. The sad reality is that many artists are so steadfast in their own work and their own circle that it is difficult for them to see art on a macro scale. Sure artists will always be around, but are they revered? Are they appreciated? And more importantly, are they figureheads in society?”

ART & COPY, a new documentary film, has the advertising and design world abuzz!  The new film, directed by Doug Pray, is about the creativity and inspiration behind the work and vision of some of the most influential advertising creatives of our time.  This is not a film about trashing the evil world of advertising.  It is instead a tribute to those relatively unknown few who actually helped shape our society and our culture with their work. These are the people who’ve created such slogans as “Just do it”, “Got Milk?”, and “Think Different.” They’ve created campaigns for the Energizer Bunny, Apple, MTV and so many other ads which became the signs of our times.  Despite advertising’s evil reputation, these brilliant campaigns and creative minds have helped us laugh, think, smile, and have moved us to act.

Back in the old days before I had children or a business to run, I would indulge in what I called my “Annual Weekend Read-A-Thon.” Over the course of some weeks (or months) as I went through my life, I would collect books, magazines, brochures, pamphlets etc and stack them in a pile by the side of my bed. When the pile became unwieldy, I planned a Read-A-Thon. Over this past weekend, unwilling to venture out into the hot and humid 90+ degree out of doors… I reinstated the weekend Read-A-Thon.

What is social media? Are you using it? Here are some amazing facts and figures as to why you might not want to dismiss the social media revolution. As freelancers, artists or designers can your business afford to overlook these opportunities? Have a look.
Found via Debbie Millman – President of AIGA

What happens when you take 20 designers out of their element and place them in the woods to work on a project without Wacom tablets, computers or cellphones? Such was the experience this past weekend when I joined AIGA-CT for the LOTION/Roughin’ It event in the Berkshires where some of the best designers in Connecticut met up to collaborate for a cause.

I always write best on a rainy day.  Thank god it’s raining today because I have a lot of writing to do.

But what happens on those days when you just can’t seem to put two words together?  Here are some tips that might help.

As promised last Thursday, here is part two of the Client and Designer’s Bill of Rights.  This content can also apply to practicing artists and can be adopted to reflect that industry. Last week I wrote Part I – Client’s Bill of Rights. You can read it here.

As a creative professional, the designer is entitled to:

1. The right to a written contract. A contract will help us to outline the work description, time line and terms for work. It establishes our relationship, our future, and it benefits us both as we move forward together.

2. No Spec work or work for hire situations. Please do not ask a professional designer to work for hire or to work on speculation. Doing so degrades the design industry and the standing of the designer.  Please see AIGA’s philosophy on spec work.

3. The right to be paid promptly. When we agree on payment for work being done, this means payment will be made by you, the client, in accordance with our signed contract. This will enable the designer to continue on with process and devote time to the project rather than having to inquire about payments. Please remember, as a small studio, your timely payments enable us to purchase materials that may well be benefiting you.

4. The right to sufficient time for developing ideas and solutions. Design is a creative process. The creative process requires that the designer have ample time to develop and conceptualize ideas and solutions. This will enable us to provide the best possible product for your needs. Delays in providing your materials (photos, logos, text etc…) to the designer will delay the time line for the project. Please also understand requests for emergency work or rush work may result in a rush work fee.

5. The right to accurate information and to be informed of changes in the scope of work. Please communicate accurately and honestly with your designer. Enough said.

6. The right to be treated fairly and professionally. A designer is a professional. Often we will go to the mat to provide for you, the client, superior service and results. We are happy to answer your questions and provide customer support. We often work long hours and well into the night, however, we also need time to be with our families and to attend to our personal affairs. Please don’t call late at night or after hours unless previously arranged. If you are sending email to us on a weekend understand that you might not hear back until the next business day. If you have a problem or concerns, please convey them calmly and professionally.

7. The right to present to and to communicate with the decision makers. To be able to do the best job possible, it is important that lines of communication are open with the appropriate personnel and decision makers.

8. The right to serve other clients. While we endeavor to treat every client as if they were our only client, please understand that we are independent contractors who rely on working with several clients simultaneously.

9. The right to refuse work based upon illegalities or morality. Please do not ask the designer to violate copyright, trademark laws by illegally using artwork, photos, logos or designs that do not belong to you. Also please respect our decision to not participate in work that may go against our values or principles.

*Please feel free to use this bill of rights as a guide, but keep in mind that I am a graphic designer not a lawyer.  These Bill of Rights serve as guidelines to help foster relationship with my clients and outline objectives based on my business philosophy.  Should you seek to include legal documentation within your own materials and contracts, I recommend that you consult with your attorney.

Like this post? Please comment or share it with others.

While meeting with a client on Friday, he showed me one of his new toys… The Buddha Board.  I was so taken with this thing I had to share it here.  So simple and yet brilliant.  The Buddha Board allows artists, designers, and even those shy about ever sharing their creations to draw on a special board with water.  As you paint, the board darkens and then after about 15 minutes your creation fades and disappears.  It’s perfect when you aren’t concerned about creating “product” and seek a little inspiration or relax time.  Buddha Board comes with the board, a bamboo paint brush and water tray.  Very Zen!

The Buddha Board website explains like this:

You simply paint on the surface with water and your creation will come to life in bold design. Then as the water slowly evaporates, your art will magically disappear leaving you with a clean slate and a clear mind – ready to create a whole new masterpiece. Buddha Board is also environmentally friendly and will last for years with proper care. Allow yourself to let go and not be concerned with each outcome – live for the moment.

Visit the Buddha Board website or the board can be purchased from amazon.com

Like this post?  Please leave a comment or share with a friend.