The Art of Forgery... or lack of principles.

While watching Netflix tonight, I stumbled on a documentary called "The Art of Forgery" about Wolfgang Beltracchi. While astonished by his masterful skill, I was absolutely disgusted by his lies. Every accomplishment that he ever received was built on deception. He claims that there are (over) hundreds of his fake art circulating around the market - worldwide. Sadly, with a boasting smile he claims there would be thousands of more, if he didn't get caught.

Wolfgang Beltracchi was found guilty and charged with forgery and corruption related to 14 works of art that sold for a combined $45m! On 27 October 2011, Wolfgang Beltracchi was sentenced to 6 years in jail. His wife Helene was sentenced to 4 years. Both were granted "open" prison sentences, as long as they held legitimate afternoon jobs. They also were allowed to work together, then report into jail afterwards. Isn't it amazing what MONEY can get?

He's out making millions (supposedly) off of his personal art. He doesn't deserve a dime, and it disgusts me knowing that people are still filling his pockets.

Personally, I've had my work stolen more than a few times, within my life. It's devastating. All of the time consuming hours - psychical, emotional, and mental... all to have stolen, from an imposter. It's absolutely gut wrenching. But, where does it end or how can it be stopped? The harsh reality is, it can't be.

Regardless of art, the basic concept is built on human principles. That's something that can only be changed if they want it to be. It's out of our hands. Some people have never developed a moral code to live by. Others learn their wrongdoings by being punished, after pushing their limits. In the worst case scenarios are, people who chose to never learn and enjoy the thrill of deception - while taking everyone down with them.

Well, Mr. Beltracchi I plan on watching you and your newest works, in hope to not see mine, or any other artist's hard work on your canvas! I am sure the rest of the world will be watching you the rest of your life. Which sadly, is something you enjoy.

Tools of the trade...

Out with the old, in with the new. My poor old paint brushes have turned into sticks with splinters, because I've used them so much. I admit the reason I've hung on to them for so long is - because they're like old friends, that have been good to me. My brushes have seen everything that I've expressed. Every vulnerable secret, anger, sadness, or elated moment was in my hands. It's unfair to give credit to what I've constructed, with acknowledging the tools used with my skill. So, here's a blog giving a tribute to the brushes that I am going to set aside. (Notice I didn't say throw away), sorry just can't do it.

Anyway, today after browsing every brush in Hobby Lobby I decided on a couple packs, that particularly suited my taste. And, what do you know? The cheapest pack for $3 had every brush I needed. Before the high art elites, or art snobs judge - I had a pocket full of money and chose those specific packs based on quality not price. You think a classic name brand has the best brushes and paints, since you've become comfortable, while being happy with the results. I've done the same growing up - same as I have with the cheap brushes, although a lifelong lessons have taught me better.

What artists do not realize is the very (same) companies are manufacturing the (same) brushes. One is sold in a cheap pack, with different color painted stems or label stamps - the other high end brushes are outlined in gold leaf packs and have signatures of companies or other artists. It's a sneaky trick to trap artists, so we feel important. Also, their advertisements insure us that the quality is up to par and assures artists that we can paint as good as Rembrandt! Don't fall into the trap.

The end of Newspaper Comic Strips?

Is this the end to our Sunday, newspaper comics strips? I hope not. After so many years (since my childhood), I can remember flipping through all of the news pages, just to reach the best section. My eye's lit up like a light when I saw the newest stories, and enjoyed laughing at their cunning jokes. Slowly, the strips started disappearing - even Peanuts, Calvin and Hobbs, also Garfield were losing their beautiful vibrant ink. We went from a full page with a variety of comics, down to a one page corner, that was crammed with the few (black and white) popular strips. We're in the process of a technical revolution. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the newest advancements. Although, there are things in the art world that simply cannot be replaced - and, that's holding a fresh printed paper in your hands with the latest humour. The cartoonists work hard to share little hints of life's relations. I've always admired their imagination. There are plenty of times that I wish I could see through their eyes, during hard times. They haven't been given credit in the high art world. Which is political nonsense - in my opinion. Comic strips have just as much meaning as a Mona Lisa. The difference is, comics relate to us in a modern era. After watching a Netflix documentary, I realized how hard they're hanging on. The sports section is taking over, and advertisements are smothering what's left. We need to support our artist community - big or small. Contact your local newspaper and keep requesting comic sections. This is a tradition that shouldn't end.

Bat for Lashes

First off, why is Natasha Khan so underrated? Her music is absolutely entrancing. There are very few songs that captivates my emotional response. But, Bat for Lashes does. My artwork has been greatly influenced by her music. I catch myself reflecting memories of her dreams. Her journal is an open book, full of stories and images. I wish she was an artist, and could convey her visualizations. Even abstract methods could flow gracefully on her canvas... if only. Although, her words are enough to take you places that you've never been - I'll continue to paint what I've interpreted.