William Blake

Artists Richard Selesnick and Nicholas Kahn spoke at Brenau University last night, and their exhibit is on view in the galleries there. In their lecture, they referred to William Blake several times as a source of inspiration. So, in honor of National Arts and Humanities Month, Blake is today's daily art focus. A poet, painter, and printmaker, he is the perfect artist to kick off NAHM.

To Autumn
by William Blake

O Autumn, laden with fruit, and stained
With the blood of the grape, pass not, but sit
Beneath my shady roof; there thou mayst rest,
And tune thy jolly voice to my fresh pipe,
And all the daughters of the year shall dance!
Sing now the lusty song of fruits and flowers.

"The narrow bud opens her beauties to
The sun, and love runs in her thrilling veins;
Blossoms hang round the brows of Morning, and
Flourish down the bright cheek of modest Eve,
Till clust'ring Summer breaks forth into singing,
And feather'd clouds strew flowers round her head.

"The spirits of the air live on the smells
Of fruit; and Joy, with pinions light, roves round
The gardens, or sits singing in the trees."
Thus sang the jolly Autumn as he sat;
Then rose, girded himself, and o'er the bleak
Hills fled from our sight; but left his golden load.

 William Blake, The Ghost of a Flea, 1819-1820, tempera heightened with gold leaf on mahogany panel

 William Blake, Hecate, The Night of Enitharmon's Joy, 1795, watercolor tint

October is National Art and Humanities Month

DeeDee’s Daily Art

I’m starting this new blog about art and art history, and what a great time to begin:

October is National Arts and Humanities Month!  There are events all over the US celebrating the arts in tons of ways. 

What can you do to join in? Americans for the Arts gives us some ideas:

Ideas for Community Events

• Host a Creative Conversation in your community
• Ask local businesses, libraries and schools to host special NAHM events, such as open mic nights, poetry readings or talent shows.  
• Suggest that local art venues, such as museums and theatres, give “behind-the-scenes” tours and interviews for families and students.
• Organize a parade, art festival, “battle of the bands,” talent show or art auction that showcases local talent. You can even raffle off local art, literature or tickets at the big event!
• Conduct a series of training workshops for local artists on marketing, portfolio development and publicity. 
• Develop and present an award for the outstanding arts organization in your community.
• Create a community photo album. Invite local residents to donate old photographs and take new ones throughout the month.
• Invite local government officials to any events that you plan.

Ways Individuals Can Celebrate

• Attend local arts events like museum exhibits, local plays, festivals or outdoor concerts.  If you have kids, make it a family outing!
• Take a class in creative writing, dance, painting or whatever strikes your fancy.
• Perform publically and/or donate your artwork, literature and/or teaching skills to a community center.
• Use your blog or website to post NAHM Web stickers or posts about your favorite art experiences.
• Unveil a new project, product or service during NAHM.
• Make a video about what the arts mean to you and post it on YouTube (and send us the link).
• Enjoy the arts with your family and friends. Sing, play music, read a book, dance or draw together.
• Be an advocate. Write to your Member of Congress, letting him/her how important arts and arts education funding is to you, your family and your community.

Have fun!

Cheers,

DeeDee