By Page H. Gifford
Correspondent
Laura Foussekis, artist and former chair of the Louisa Arts Center Purcell Gallery committee, visited with members of the Fluvanna Art Association on June 15, to critique and discuss their work and give tips on refining and improving their work.
Many artists consider it a brave act to have their work critiqued, often fearing the worst. But Foussekis was gracious and constructive in her criticism which was light and meant to draw attention to imperfections that could easily be corrected. Part of growing as an artist is being able to apply constructive criticism of one’s work and improve it.
Many speakers are aware of an artist’s sensitivity and tread lightly with critiquing a member’s work. Foussekis’ critiquing helped artists to see where their strengths were and their shortcomings for future reference. Foussekis gave a fair assessment to every artist regardless of level, from master on down the line.
It was difficult to critique accomplished artists, including Tom Ellis, Linda Bethke, Janie Prete, and Susan Edginton. Their works were more about creative goals and whether they had achieved what they set out to do. Ellis’ carving of his wife in a dance pose done in s single piece of basswood impressed Foussekis with its symmetry and movement as well as the carved details in the face and hands.
“I’m becoming quite an expert on female anatomy,” quipped Ellis.
“It was the ancient Greeks that began showing movement in their statues,” Foussekis said. “Before that everything was stiff and straight.”
Bethke had set out to recreate the drama in an old twisted and knotted oak tree in the fall.
“It looks three-dimensional, and I like the gnarled tree with the large roots,” she said. She pointed out that Edginton had captured the feeling of life in her dog using its the eyes and nose.
“There is a sensation of moisture, otherwise it wouldn’t seem alive.” She added that adding lifelike details to animals such as moisture on the nose adds realism.
A few others had difficulty discerning their light source which is a common problem with flat work. When the light source is undetectable, the piece looks flatter rather than three-dimensional.
Overall, the artists were pleased with the critique, learning something valuable that will help them during the process of creating. Critiquing will only lead artists on a journey to improve their work or to go in a different direction, which eventually leads them to find their creative voice.
