Sunday, February 6, 2011

from workshops to walmart (more from intro to art history)

As the person who isn't responsible for great things I can't deny the pangs of envy that I feel when hearing about others with workshops staffed by those less talented--but talented no less-than the master.
Just because we're looking at art though, we have long attributed the entire piece to one individual. Only recently has it come into vogue to have those others who have helped with the work be recognized. When hearing a symphony though, people are more often familiar with the composer. Only those who are curious or with interest can tell you that what we're hearing is the Berlin Philhamonic Orchestra, for example. Taking it a step further, maybe you're really into Herbert von Karajan's reign as conductor from '54-89. You might have a specific musician who you prefer and NOTICE when they do something differently.
And for people that knowledgeable, for those who care that much, it might mean something. We might care to know that Rubens didn't do that landscape. It might mean something to the more seasoned observer.
The general public does not require that attention and information.
Where would we draw the line?
We've got this big box store: Walmart. Most people can tell you Sam Walton started it.
They carry, I don't know, domestic-wares endorsed by Martha Stewart, for example. That's going to be good enough for most.
Most people won't find it necessary to know further: Who really designed the product? Martha didn't.
Who built the prototype?
Who worked in the factory?
Who discovered the formula to create the resin from which it was made?
Who created the mold from which it was cast?
Who packaged it?
Who created the packaging?
Who inspected the final product?
Who grew the grains to grind to bake the bread?
Really, really, how far must we take it? Credit to all--while nice in theory-would utilize a lot of ink, make packaging really ugly and create a great deal of additional expenses on the part of the manufacturer. I'm imagining a tree chart starting with one "Master" name at the top, and as it breaks down lower and lower, more and more names from which to choose...things are getting out of hand.
It's like field day in a contemporary elementary school.
Everyone's a winner here.
No feelings are hurt.

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