Well, it was a hot one in Austin, MN last weekend. It had been a long time since I last visited, but it was cool to be back there. Minnesota holds a lot of history and Austin definitely showcases this fact. Anyway, the hot weather kept the crowds away, so I had some time (meaning way too much) to mess around on my phone and read a few pieces about art. One of those discussed a new book about the work of Irving Penn and his impact on the photography world. I was particularly struck by the piece, especially the following quote:
"Imagery exists every day in new and ever more complicated ways, but we have lost the objectness of photographs..."
-Jeff L Rosenheim, Photography Curator at the Met Museum
Naturally, it makes me want to bust out the film cameras and go totally analogue with some photography work, because I really do think Rosenheim nails it with this sentiment. But it also made me think about my own work at the sewing machine and the challenges of getting art fair goers to see the value in everyday objects that are made by hand.
It may sound strange, but I think we have also lost the objectness of, well, objects. Our service economy has removed us from the act of making, therefore, we often don't think about what it takes to create something from start to finish. We don't know the cost of raw materials. We're in the dark on the learning curve that comes with a new creation or design. We don't know the amount of time it takes to tend to every last detail. And so on and so on.
But why would we when we can just drive to Target or open an app on our phone? Don't get me wrong, I do both of those things, too. But I also go out of my way to support local folks making amazing things and try to understand what it takes to bring these items to market.
I encourage you to do the same. Because it really does matter in all sorts of ways. Should we talk more about this? Can this be a place for some reflection and intellectual engagement? Shoot me a message and let me know!
Best,
Ty