Folk Art vs Trained Art

I surveyed the recent art opening where my two previously posted paintings in this blog were hung. I asked a viewer (non-painter from town) if they could tell which work was mine. He picked both out.

'Aging Circus Act'  Mixed media sculpture      ©robinrkent

Going back to creating 'painterly paintings' from contemporary folk art has been a learning lesson. Seems one can transfer painting experiences from one medium - and style - to another. No one-trick pony. 

Universal topics often arise at the same time. I recently read via the Fenimore Art Museum  blog  the same art segregation issues when museums hang shows. They highlight a well written article from the New York Times in their post on this very topic.

But from the art business side, is it a good thing to mix styles? When patrons see you as a folk artist and then you're painting 'paintings,' are you confusing your market?

You Are Not Alone

After completing my first (in a long while) painterly painting (shown above), I figured I'd try another. I have a few snaps that might turn into paintings someday. I'll keep creating folk art assemblages and such, but this new curiosity adds another layer to the mix.

'Away From It All'       Acrylic on Canvas               ©robinrkent

My paintings are intentionally soft because I use the same brushes (and paint) on canvas that I use when painting wood sculptures and assemblages. The wood wrecks the brush point, and I like the effect. I bought new (sissy) brushes to be used only on canvas and am waiting for their arrival.
Found a kindred spirit. Alanna Martinez has similar views to mine on painting. In her short article on 'Blouin Art Info,' she sums up 6 painting instincts while viewing the Matisse show at the Met. She hits on many of the 'no-nos' I was told, turning them into 'yes-yes'. Here's the link: http://www.artinfo.com/print/node/854181