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Area high-school students show off talent in original printmaking show

By Howard B. Owens

Traditional printmaking is on display at the Senior Center on Bank Street through April 29.

The prints were created by high-school students from Batavia and Le Roy.

These aren't digital, computer-generated prints, but handcrafted original images using silkscreen, linoleum, wood block, collography and stencils to create new works of art.

C. M. Barons

http://www.melbournearts.com.au/gallery/v/vidagaigalas/146694148.jpg.ht…

One of the bracing realizations, having been involved in student art shows, often the inspiration for young artists derives from the work of others. One has to balance the inclination to cite rip-off; instead focus on technique or medium. Sadly, the adults who handle the submissions are apparently out-of-touch, not recognizing the likes of album cover art, often multiple re-works attributable to the same commercial theme. As a former show-judge, the challenge: finding original ideas in a sea of 'homage.'

Mar 23, 2011, 2:13pm Permalink
Kim Grant

I don't believe these prints are being portrayed as original art but by the way in which the print was made ie. silkscreen, linoleum, wood block, collography and stencils...

Mar 23, 2011, 2:58pm Permalink
Neil Gagne

I think you folks tend to over-analyze everything. These are kids we're talking about and I don't believe anyone has tried to claim they were original nor did anyone attempt to make a profit off them. It's a high school art class!

Mar 23, 2011, 3:01pm Permalink
Howard B. Owens

I always attribute this quote to T.S. Elliott, but I believe others have said it: "Poor poets borrow; great poets steal."

One of the paths to great artistry is to stand on the shoulders of those who went before you and inspire you, especially when first learning the craft.

Those who continue eventually develop a voice and a vision of their own.

Mar 23, 2011, 3:10pm Permalink
Lorie Longhany

I've heard my young students say many times, "Mrs. Longhany, he's copying me". To which I always respond; if your work is admired by your neighbor at the art table, it is a very good reflection on you and you should take it as a complement.

There is a reason why art students over the centuries have studied at museums copying the artist's that came before them.

Mar 24, 2011, 9:00am Permalink
C. M. Barons

Just to clarify- I was not criticizing the artist(s). Michelle pondered, "her own words on the sign," and I recalled having seen the image before. I recognize that art is generally studied by way of art history and emulating other artists. Certainly the concept of block-printing is all about replication. Perhaps my acknowledging the role of emulation in art education was too subtle.
I was reminded of being an art show judge- a challenge exacerbated by being paired with the late John Peasley for a student show rife with abstract art... Anyone who knew Mr. Peasley, recognized that he had utter disdain for non-representational art. Our (collaboration) in judging the show resulted in his favoring a pencil portrait that was evidently traced from an album-cover, while I was taken by an abstract painting. Our (debate) made a lasting impression. I believe from then-on Peasley referred to me as 'that poisonous person.'
...A charming bit of alliteration, suitable for a grave stone. I'm just not sure I earned it entirely. My older brother might have been construed in the assignment to me. He declined an invitation to sit for Peasley. John had a private 'classical collection,' and in his eyes my brother evoked Apollo.

Mar 24, 2011, 1:35pm Permalink

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