Ars Poetica

Curator of Exhibitions Jay Heuman will be a regular contributor to Ellipses. Below are his thoughts about speaking with artists.

Nothing replaces meeting and talking with artists face-to-face. Since September, in my role as the Art Center’s Curator of Exhibitions, I have enjoyed visits with numerous artists in their studios and during Salt Lake’s monthly Gallery Stroll. Though many visual artists feel their artworks should stand independently, that the spoken or written word neither “explains” nor “replaces” an intense gaze, I still recommend talking with artists. I ask artists about their experiences and outlooks, their media and techniques, their short and long-term goals. Unlike mass-produced goods, artworks are often unique and are as often linked to a story. Maybe this is the artist’s first oil painting or first etching? Then again, maybe the artist revisits their palette and canvas, etching plate and inks, chisels and marble block as a spontaneous conversation with an old friend. Maybe their artworks are inspired by introspection or observation, a stroll along the ocean, a novel or sonata or … so many possibilities. There is poetry in life – sometimes soothing, sometimes a jolt – with which a visual artist may imbue their materials. But do not overlook the poetry found in a gracious handshake, a mischievous grin, and a delightful tête-à-tête.