For the artist what is the cost of living without doing our art? What is the cost of losing artists to economics? Asia and Europe love the creation of art because they have lived with it longer and understand if a society doesn’t support the arts we become crass and boring. Creation is God’s gift to us to bring a society to it’s fullest potential. Even those who benefit directly don’t really understand the role artists play.
People have a misconception that artists are greedy because of their prices on their art. I don’t think people understand how much it takes to be an artist these days and they aren’t doing for the money otherwise they wouldn’t work for pennies a day. So what is the cost to society if you buy a poster instead of an original piece of artwork? You tell me.
Acrylic Abstract Art 
Boy Lori, you really hit home on this one. Lots of Artists we know are turning to the 9 to 5 job these days. In fact, I am looking for a job myself, too. I am scared that I won’t be able to return to my art and it is frighting. Of course I will always have it. My soul and spirit demand it, but as I work, I will have less time and energy and therefore ideas may never materilize. I hope things pick up again soon. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this very important subject.
cheryl, sorry to hear that you are one of many artists troubled. You’ll never lose your vision I suspect amd will continue making wonderful ceramics.
Well said!!!! AND I love the mandala you posted too! So vibrant and alive! And by the way, I read your other two previous posts–aren’t you sweet for mentioning the book!
Love you!
Lisa
Here Here! Love the mandala as well.
Arliss
Well said Lori. We are seeing this everyday it seems, with wonderful artists making decisions to live another way. It saddens me, but we cannot lose heart. Just came across a wonderful quote by Madonna where she says “as an artist it’s my responsibility to create things that inspire and motivate people to live better lives.” That is what drives so many artists, I believe. If we keep that focus and intention our work will continue to find its way into the world. It must, because it needs to, and the world needs it.
Right on Jackie!