The Value of Art

Creating Pots

I am currently one of two artists in residence at Roderick Street Community Kindergarten. My residency is not about teaching the kids but sending a message to the community that artwork is work! I sense there is a general consensus that the work of artists is generally undervalued by society and our economic contribution is  not seen.  In the main we are viewed as the dropouts.  Yet it is perfectly acceptable to be a professional sports person.  

Most artists need a 'day job' of second source of income, the majority supplement their income by teaching. Sales of artwork do not put food on the table.  Having original artwork in own homes is a luxury few of us can afford.  Those who can afford art have a limited amount of space on their walls.  Until society changes its values this is unlikely to change. 

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working at kindy

For me any significant change occurs with changing attitudes of the young. I remember my father reasoning I could not take art as a school subject, because it would not get me a 'job'.  The notion that art is not work is one I want to challenge during my current residency. If the children see Mieke (my partner in crime) and myself working at kindy then these children and their parents will view us as contributing members of society. 

Winston Churchill was questioned about his funding of the arts during the war.  He answered, `if we do not value the arts (creative practice) then what are we fighting for?'

Artwork is one way of recording history and showing us what is valuable to the human spirit. It expressed faith and emotion. It inspires everything from what we ware, to advertising and architecture. Yet its producers remain undervalue and rearly is anyone encouraged to become an artists at a young age. 

Artwork is work!

I want to build a society that values its creators!  The entertainers, dancers, clowns, performers, singers, musicians, writers, actions, directors, painters, crafts people, sculptures, designers, architecture and all who bring beauty into the world; to be valued and paid as the professionals they are.  

To do this the arts need to be funded and investments made in the future generations 'who will colour our world.' I am just as passionate about art as I am about advocating for people living with disabilities.  I would love to build a legacy in Ipswich were the arts are valued for their own worth.  Opportunities for residencies is one way to achieve this. 

You can invest in my vision by contributing to fundraising for the Roderick Street Kindy Artist In Residency Program.  Just as the children have seen Mieke and myself at work - I would love to see a musician or a performer visit the kindy in the future. If you want to help build my vision drop me and email.