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Coffee and a Piece of Art To Go, Please!

Posted: October 6, 2003
} Coffee and a Piece of Art To Go, Please! By Paul Constable There has never been a better opportunity for artists to show and sell their work than the present. The same goes for art buyers. Coffee shops and restaurants have done a great job in recognizing this value added fit between themselves, their customers and local artists. These java houses have become the real Public Art Galleries, accessible and open to the general public at a moments notice, throughout the year. I'm sure the coffee house business is fierce out there, with nearly one on every corner. They know being successful depends on building customer loyalty. The benefit for the business is original artwork that decorates their establishment and raises their profile in the community. It also differentiates them from the National franchised coffee bars springing up across the country. Like a formal art show, the artwork is changed regularly, giving the space a fresh look, which keeps the shops patrons coming back to see the next show. As new artists rotate through the doors, so their followers are acquainted with the coffee establishment. Artwork of Marvin Swartz at City Perk (Saskatoon) http://www.uvisions.com/swartz I have frequented many coffee houses and the little independent community shops provide a great venue to see the latest artwork without the pressure to purchase. At one time, fine art was only available through commercial art galleries, the odd store window or from the artists directly. Finding the right piece and feeling comfortable with your purchase takes time and requires a bit of browsing on your part. This should be fun, exciting and without any sales pressure. If your intended purchase seems expensive, just think how many meals or designer coffees it would take to add up to that amount. That doesn't mean go over budget or go without the other things you like, just start smaller. It truly is a great addiction. Remember - once the coffee is gone, it's gone! - but the flavour of the artwork you purchased, will always remain. Many times the original artwork you purchase will accrue in value, not like the new car you just bought. Buying as an investment shouldn't be your primary reason for the purchase, unless you retain the help of a professional art consultant. Your enjoyment should come from buying something you like or can grow to appreciate. Now, some people feel uncomfortable entering an art gallery, especially if they are just curious or are trying to learn more about how and what they should be looking for in a work of art. Most commercial galleries are more than happy to let you browse and ask questions about the art and artists they handle. Meanwhile, back at the coffee shop, while sipping your latte or Columbian dark roast, listen to the comments by others about the work on display. Are they the same as your thoughts on that piece? If yours is different, that doesn't mean what is being said is correct, but it does give you another perspective on the work. If you are unsure of a piece, sometimes the artist has a sheet explaining what their work entailed or was meant to convey. Watch the paper for openings or ask to be put on the mailing / email list. The artist usually attends these openings and it is a good time to get to know them and their work better. Artwork of Regina Seib at Joe Beans (Saskatoon) http://www.reginaseib.com/index.html Most artists showing in these shops tend to be local, emerging to mid-career artists. They are looking for exposure and their works are usually reasonably priced. Coffee houses and artists started this relationship from the time there were cafes, in Europe. It was a place to hang out, talk art and life. Except for a few of the larger centres, Canadians have been slow to respond to this lifestyle. Finally, we seem to be accepting art into our daily routines. The coffee is getting better and so is the art. _________________________________________________ Paul Constable is the Director of Artists In Canada. He is a Painter / Printmaker and Senior Graphic Designer for an Advertising and Communications company in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He is also a contributing art writer to "Life In The City" Paper in Saskatoon. Paul Constable can be reached by email HERE. His paintings may be viewed at: www.ArtistsInCanada.com/pconstable. Your suggestions for future articles are welcome. _________________________________________________ © 2003 ArtistsInCanada.com