Arts and Wine Festival, cont

Buy Local Art! The Cultural Council will be launching a major advertising campaign not only locally but in surrounding counties and throughout the region. In addition to intensively promoting the event, an effort will be made to encourage people attending to purchase artwork. Beale explains, “There will be artwork available to fit any budget. Look around for a place in your home that would sparkle with the addition of an original piece of art. Imagine what would work well in the space, and then enjoy looking for the perfect item to enhance the space!” Not only walls, but tables, desk tops and floor space should be considered. A buyer should look for a work with which he or she has an emotional connection. The original item will also bring back memories of a wonderful time spent at the festival! And don’t forget the power of an original work as a gift. If you like an artist’s work but have something specific in mind that you don’t see, ask the artist about a commission. Most artists will consider a commission at a price competitive with their existing work. And be sure to ask about the story behind the work. There always is one, and it adds immensely to the enjoyment and understanding of the piece!” Beale continues, “One good approach is to make a budget decision on how much to spend beforehand. Then the financial stress of deciding how much can be spent on the spot is eliminated. It becomes easy to relax and really enjoy the experience. And if spending a few hundred dollars on artwork seems extravagant, think about how much other hobbies cost! This can be the beginning of a personal art collection that can bring rewarding experiences for a lifetime.” . As Harry Davis, one of Cortland’s past venerable artists and a mentor to many liked to say, “It’s Smart to Buy Local Art.” Smart for the purchaser, and smart for the community. We rightfully support many community endeavors such as local sports teams, ethnic and cultural festivals, music and theater performance venues, and libraries. A thriving artist community beautifies the area in both its public places and private homes but also fosters community pride and economically benefits the area by re-circulating money locally. Take a stand to support local artists’ efforts and make a commitment to purchase!