Chris Miller is “on about” the ARC again. I am very glad for the ARC it is essential. The submissions to the competition of 2007 are perhaps not up to some of the best of the past years. Miles has done a noble job in his critique. I am less enthusiastic but he has made some very good points;
· Judging by photo?
As Miles says; “you can do wonders with Photoshop”. And cunning lighting
· Need to be a little bit prettier (please read in context)
In an oil painting you can include eyes with colour, eyelashes and a twinkle, this is difficult in a bronze or marble. “Pretty” is difficult in sculpture without eyelashes and a twinkle, but not impossible!
There is a little bit of chocolate box stuff there which is always the danger with realist art, but my biggest disappointment is in subject matter.
Now please do not think that I am doing a Hockney here on today’s “Masters” because I am not. Photoshop and cunning lighting must however be taken into account and all works at this level should be judged in the flesh.
I do not necessarily agree with all of Miles’ opinions, but I want to recommend you to visit both and make up your own mind.
Chris’ opinions are always worth a read too, but do not agree with him at your peril! (This time, in the main, I agree with him!)
A disappointing year, 2007.