Why Art? Because … just because
In 2004 artist Chris MacClure conceived of and initiated International Artist Day with the sole purpose of honoring, celebrating and bringing to awareness, the contributions artists, both past and present, have made to our humanity.
A lofty task indeed, but ironically it was made possible by the innovative minds of the tech artists who brought the internet to life. More examples, both historic and contemporary can be made of artists who have given their talents to benefit mankind in general and it is this creative spirit that MacClure would have the world acknowledge on Oct. 25th.
Whether painting, sculpting, writing, composing or entertaining, artists express and represent human qualities both sublime and enduring. The joy of artistic expression does much to mitigate the hard lines drawn by material acquisitiveness which is the state of consciousness we find most in our world. Cultural endeavors must be nurtured and treasured, for society would be unbearable without the tempering effects art brings to our life.
Noted creative people have a responsibility to inspire, educate and bring awareness of the value art has in ones’ life and to set examples for the rest to follow. International Artist Day is an excellent tool to help facilitate this awareness process and the website has gained world-wide acknowledgment from artists, countries, cities, schools and has made inroads with mainstream galleries, art dealers and collectors. The IAD website offers a wide range of ideas to help artists find ways to raise awareness for themselves and their communities and IAD encourages and asks artists to participate and help inspire new ways to raise awareness of the arts.
If just one artist through perseverance, patience and courage can take an idea and move it onto the world stage in just 10 years, just imagine the impact a million artists can have on our planet, for now and the future.
Marilyn Hurst