Changing Topics Conversation: The Ethics of Selling One's Work
Particpants in "Ethics of Selling" from L to R Front: Kim Murton (artist), Joanna Bloom (Ash Street Project), Thomas Orr (Ash Street Project), Victoria Christen (artist), Dan Anderson (visiting artist ASP), Second Row L to R: Aldin Huff (artist), Mariel Pitti (Museum of Contemporary Craft), Brett Binford (Eutectic, Mudshark, Portland Growler), Ted Vogel (artist, Lewis & Clark), Chris Lyon (Eutectic, Mudshark, Portland Growler), Jason Sturgill (visiting artist ASP), Mary Lou Zeek (artist, Mary Lou Zeek Gallery), Very Back, L to R: Careen Stoll (artist), Matt Causey (ASP resident).
May's conversation was well attended, with our base crew, two resident artists (Dan Anderson and Jason Sturgill) and a representation of artists and gallerists from the community. The discussion helped both artists and gallerists share perspectives on the challenges of their jobs. We weighed in on the many ways an artist can sell work, from on line shops to virtual galleries to craft shows. Many attending seemed to favor working with galleries. We discussed the contractual agreement artists hold with galleries, and how important it is that there is a mutual respect. As for the conundrum of when work is ready for the market, both sides of this issue were put forth. Some felt strongly that the artist "has to be out there" rather than "existing in a cocoon", while others voiced that every artist needs a good shard pile, and that "when work is fresh, it's easy to put back in the pug mill".