I have always wondered about what constitutes collaboration, from the traditions of the atelier to the contracting of an other to produce work under one's name. The question really formulated when i saw an Francesco Clemente show sometime back where he had commissioned/contracted Indian miniaturists to paint the backgrounds on a series of his drawings. I do not recall any attribution to the painter he had employed. There is an historical tradition to this.
I decided to investigate this myself. I am lucky enough to work with an artist group, or rather work for this artist group documenting their work.
Ateam artist group
I have embarked on painting small portraits of each of them on piece of primed luan 1/4" ply, leaving the surrounding area primed for their 'response'. I have attempted to compose the image to give them a lot of latitude with the approach they could take. I pay them a 20.00USD down payment, give them the portrait with the only instructions to finish the painting with no time limit to completion. They have questioned what I wanted, my only response is that it is up to them. Upon returning the piece, I pay them 50.00USD.
I gave 3 portraits out today. Two immediately began work on them, Charles got diverted by a couple other pieces he was finishing up.
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Interesting project. I think they look pretty good as is. I'd be tempted to paint the background off-white and take my $50.
ReplyDeleteexcellent business acumen...
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