I just submitted an online review for Art on The Square - Belleville, Il. It was a great show for us and John won "Best of Show" which he was surprised and thrilled about.
I was very surprised and annoyed to read some of the comments by other artists (who kept their identity hidden) complaining about John winning this award and criticizing the work. No one likes it when the judges are not thrilled with their work but it happens all the time. All I can say is each show is different, judging is subjective and to have an attitude like these artists is very immature and unprofessional. I would also say to these artists (and I think I know who they are) that you can't win awards at every show so when someone else does, please do the right thing and be happy for them. Better yet go up and congratulate them; we always congratulate you. And yes, keep your sour grapes to yourself.
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I just went to John's website and he has beautiful work.
Congrats on the award, John. Janet, you just have to do what I used to tell my kids when they were younger. Pretend you're a duck and it's water off your back...
As a show director/juror/judge and exhibiting artist, all at different times, I can attest to the fact that regardless of the jurors' or judges' qualifications and judging criteria, and/or the talent or lack thereof of winners, there will always be some outspokenly unhappy, rude artists who just KNOW they should have won awards.
Certainly there are times I question the judges' choices, but I also know that just because I don't happen to be a fan of the winning medium/style/subject/technique, it isn't necessarily bad art.
Congratulating the winners is good karma, aside from anything else.
When I am cruising a show as artist,or juror ; one display that stops my roll is The Costin spectacular; The work is some of the best;the artist is one of the best,and the presentation is right at the top of the list. If another artist wants to see what it is all about just view this exhibit; and learn.
I guess if I worried what others say about our well deserved awards I wouldn't have time to make glass; The artists I know are pros, we acknowledge great work, and the makers of such; simple respect, and appreciation.WE DON'T EAT OUR YOUNG. And we move on to the next juried venue. Remember awards are the opinions of 1-4 individuals--it is aperk- we are really focused on sales. Sure there are times when many disagree but it was not our decision- and we have many stories on this subject too: Congrats. ;see ya soon; Fair Winds
Thank you Bill and Jon, your thoughts and kind words are much appreciated. It really doesn't bother me how others perceive me but when fellow artists attack my husbands work it really puts me on the defense. The guard dog in me came out and I guess I was more shocked than anything else! Even more surprised that the editor of that publication would print such garbage! Awards are so subjective and you are right, we may not always agree but it was not our decision or our job. Our job is to put a good product out there and sell it. And yes, to be supportive of one another is always appreciated.
Hope your show season has been good...we have one more to go in the fall and that is it until 2012. Wishing you safe travels and much success.
Congratulations on the award!
You will come across a lot of people in this industry who believe they can walk on water. They know more than the promoter. They they know all there is to know about shows/fairs. They know all there is to know about art. So when anybody other than them wins anything, they're insulted, and must insult the winner.
Just consider the fact that although they may have talent, they have small minds. Just let it roll off your back.
I for one like to see successful people. The more successful, the better. I did a show where one exhibitor sold everything in his booth. He made $23,000. While others were angry, I went over and shook his hand!
Again, congratulations on the award!
Thank you Chris; I really like what you wrote and I think your attitude is very admirable. When these artists that you mention that "walk on water" will win awards, John and I always congratulate them. Funny, when John occasionally wins something these artists will never return the favor. I guess it really got to me reading such negativity directed at John who never has a bad thing to say about anyone. John blew it off immediately. I should have done the same!
It is impressive when someone is having a great selling day and we are always happy to see another artist do well. Getting angry just puts out bad energy and customers can really pick up on that. I always try to stay positive and it usually works. Thank you again for your kind words, I really appreciate it.
Congrats on your award!
I always figure that if I don't personally care for the work of another artist, that's a matter of taste. And there is usually SOMEONE who will love that particular style!
On the other hand, if the workmanship is shoddy, I'll stand up for my right to criticize it. I've seen some interesting pieces that are not my style, but they are constructed so poorly, they wouldn't stand up to any kind of use. I try to keep my opinions to myself (mom always said "If you can't say anything nice, don't say it at all") but once in a while something slips out.
Yikes, the Costins finally do a blog on AFI. As always congrats to John for his exceptional work. He is deserving of any and all awards that come his way.
Well, my fellow Yborers, why don't you do a blog right here on the recent Cherry Creek Show. I know you were in, would love to hear about it. If you must, you can put the dry facts into Connies other site, but here is the place to share real goodies. Don't worry about the whinning herd, they are just a bunch of sore losers with no class. Obviously their moms and pops never taught them about being good sports and recognizing excellance when it comes to others. Stay in touch, Nels.
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