Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Starving Artists in San Antonio

While visiting family in San Antonio my sister suggested we go to the Starving Artist Show at La Villita on the Riverwalk.  I was surprised that that term was still being used. I assumed it was politically incorrect, and not used anymore-that artists would not like to be thought of as "starving."  After looking for any discussion online about the use of the term. I really didn't find anything. 

Wikipedia states:  "A starving artist is an artist who sacrifices material well-being in order to focus on their artwork. They typically live on minimum expenses, either for a lack of business or because all their disposable income goes toward art projects."

(I know a lot of artists who fit that last part)

My only conclusion was the term was still being used as this was the 51st annual Starving Artist Show and they wanted people to know it's still the same show. This moniker also gives you a feeling that you might get a bargain even though the work may not be up to professional standards. This feeling was partially confirmed as we approached the show and saw a man leaving with a painting that was duct taped to the frame.  

I do enjoy going to artshows, particularly in a different part of the country to see what is being done regionally. I really enjoy the Mexican/Spanish influence on much of the art. All in all we had a very enjoyable afternoon and did see some good art. One sister bought a drawing of a white tiger and enjoyed meeting the artist and talking about the piece with her.  Here are a few shots from the show: 









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