Here’s something for you to ponder today:
“If an artist feels as a master……….it is probably very bad for his further creations……what do you think about this?”
[nonmember]This archived post is for Members Only. Click here to become a member or to get a one day pass. If you are a member, please login to view the post. [/nonmember] [private_archives]Switzerland’s Cornel Schneider made this comment in 2007, posted by Janel Jacobson on a wood carving message board.
Explorer, amber, boxwood, approximately 2 inches
Explorer, detail
Schneider’s lush netsuke are tiny treasures expertly crafted with astonishing detail. It is hard to comprehend how he achieves such a high level of realism in the diminutive sculptures, most of which can be held in the palm of your hand. I can’t help but see the work of a master in his creations. What do you think? If an artist feels he/she is a master, does that thinking act as a barrier to her/his ability to produce more great work?
Lizard
Lizard, detail
More images of Lizard here
On the Snailhouse, boxwood, approximately 3.5 inches diameter
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Stunning.
I wonder if knowing yourself to be a master of your craft — and knowing OTHERS view you that way — puts extra pressure on you to excel? (After all, you don’t become a master without focus and perserverance and perfectionism…)
In this case, it might be a good thing to look more carefully at the language in the quote: Schneider specifically mentions the personal feelings of the artist and the actions taken based on those feelings – not the feelings, actions or attitudes of his audience – who are arguably the only ones with the power to label him a master.
Ever hear the criticism that someone ‘started believing their own press?’ I think he is exploring this concept with the question. As an audience, we generally view work that has been labeled as that of a master very differently – whether rightly or wrongly is a matter of debate for another day, but it is generally accompanied by the thought that this is the pinnacle of what can be accomplished.
It seems this artist is arguing that to stop thinking as a student is to lose not only personal professional perspective, but you risk losing artistic perspective – falling back on ‘what works’ instead of exploring the intricacies of what you think you already know and following fresh observations.
I agree with that assessment, if it really is what was meant. (how can we know for sure, unless we asked? :^D)
I believe this attitude is the difference between a pupil and a student, between a life-long learner and one who rests on their laurels.
I think Perri expresses this beautifully! My thoughts exactly! If we feel too smug in our accomplishments, we lose the drive to get better! Even the best can be better! Michelangelo said” I am still learning” when he was 60 years old!
“And, finally, is not the true scholar the only true master?”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
“THE AMERICAN SCHOLAR”
An Oration delivered before the Phi Beta Kappa Society, at Cambridge, August 31, 1837
What Perri said sums it up perfectly. An artist should be gracious in recieving praise and acclaim of mastery, but humble enough to know that there’s always something new to learn no matter how far into his/her career.
Also thanks for sharing the works of what I deem to be a master. Brilliant stuff. I fell in love with netsuke carvings after seeing some at the Victoria and Albert in London. These are equally well crafted.
You are a true muse. I am glad that I subscribed. You have a great eye for art and I am glad you are sharing it.
My eyes are pleased.
Thanks.