Patrons of the Arts

The word "patron" derives from the Latin: 'patronus' ("patron"), one who gives benefits to his clients (like Patronage in ancient Rome). Patronage is the support, encouragement, privilege, or financial aid that an organization or individual bestows to another. In the history of art, arts patronage refers to the support that kings, popes, and the wealthy have provided to artists such as musicians, painters, and sculptors. Although it is an ancient concept, it has bearing today.

Creating art takes not only time but materials, which can be an expense that really adds up. Some art forms are more involved with expensive materials than others. Surprisingly, watercolor painting can really add up when you produced a finished framed matted piece of art with museum grade archival materials. I was looking at a painting I did in my first learning period of watercolors in the 90's and thinking about the cost which included a cheap wooden frame from a general membership discount store which used to be called price club. Nothing wrong with the solid wood frame and the matting purchased at a different store was acid free and archival, the pro paint was lightfast and non-fading. The cost back in the 90's was relatively minor. Consequently the price I sold the paintings for was relatively inexpensive compared to today's prices.

Fast forward to 2016 as I restart my watercolor painting after the 17 year absence. A little tube of watercolor paint costs $25. A double acid free and archival mat for a full watercolor sheet (22 X 30) costs over $100. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. It would be like comparing the cost of a gallon of gasoline in 1994 which was 1.09 per gallon versus today.

I can now appreciate the value and importance of the Patrons of the Arts more than ever. Without their support, most struggling artists will not survive regardless of their skill. When someone buys a painting directly from the artist, it is like throwing out a life buoy. It warms the artistic soul to have some appreciation for the art and provides the means to continue. But it is not just a one way street because the Patron will own a piece of art to enjoy and others will enjoy it as well. Next week( Nov 11-16, 2016) is my Open Studio event in which I plan to sell my original paintings. Whether or not someone buys a painting, even the participation of a person visiting and enjoying the art is also a life buoy. Support is not only financial it is also in the appreciation of art in the spirit of the viewer. I look forward to seeing the local Patrons of the Arts.