There's an Art to It

February 22, 2012

I have been called a lot of things in my life, but art connoisseur is not one of them. This being I said, I recently purchased my first piece of art at an auction. I was so thrilled to buy art! Original Art! Now granted, I had enjoyed two complimentary glasses of champagne, but that’s not what loosened my wallet. I simply saw something I liked, it was going for a reasonable price, and I wanted to have it on my wall. My wife definitely wanted it on the wall. Anything to replace my prized Homer Simpson mirror (She hates that thing…can’t imagine why).

It’s really amazing how we all have different tastes and opinions about what is art and what is not. Personally, I know what I like. I like bold lines and lots of sharp, bright colors. I have been to museums and stood and stared at beautiful paintings for what seems like hours. But again, I am not a connoisseur (I just love that word!); I simply know what I like. And don’t we all? I used to be ashamed of buying inexpensive wine or clothes, but now I know it’s all about what I think looks good or tastes good. Just because something is expensive, doesn’t mean it is better. 

I love perusing some of the art books in the library… some call them "coffee table books". I see what I like, what I don’t like, and of course, what I wish I could afford. I hope to someday add to my very modest art collection, and I will be buying more original works from the artists who display their wares at the many art festivals and exhibits we have around the area all the time. I have even seen some great art on display here in the Smithville Branch! 

Kansas City is a great place for artists. The First Fridays in the Crossroads are always a great time. Also, if you see a piece you like, always feel free to make an offer on the price the artist is asking. You’d be surprised at the deals they are often willing to make.

So, I will sip my inexpensive single malt Scotch, wear my non-designer clothes, and look at the new painting in my living room while I know I have things around me that look good and feel good. Remember, it’s not always the costliest thing that is the best!

Tim P.
Smithville Branch