Thursday, November 13, 2008

Andrew Wyeth: A Secret Life

Still enjoying the book by Richard Merryman that Sandy loaned me. Although I'm finding that I probably would not like Andrew Wyeth if I ever was around him - not a very nice man and such a strange mix of egocentricity and insecurity it was almost pathological. Wyeth himself said he should be judged solely on his paintings because, personally, he was not a very nice person.

Why is it the "great ones" are so obsessed with their own inner vision and their own rightness that they can't truly let another person into their lives in a selfless way? And do you think it's more likely that men can maintain this attitude while women have to be more socially acceptable? Do women do things at times just so they will not be disliked - like joining that group, volunteering for that project, smiling and being friendly when you really are not feeling friendly or happy? And how does this affect our art?

Ah, well, something to think about on this dreary, damp November day. Or you could just go into your studio and paint something bright and happy!

4 comments:

Dawn said...

thanks Rhonda, I ordered two books on Wyeth by Meryman. and congratulations on your anniversary!

Nick said...

I've never gotten around to reading that - thanks for the reminder.

RH Carpenter said...

Dawn, I think I'll check out the Helga book in the library (if they have it). I'm in the mood to read more bios of artists. Thanks for the blog congrats :)
Nick, it's a very interesting book - good for pondering when you aren't painting. I'm thinking up some really good lies about myself for my biography - in case I ever get famous :)

Barb Sailor said...

Rhonda, I'm just catching up on my blog reading, and I was really taken with your observation about women being pleasers and men being more egocentric - making it so much easier for men to do and be successful with their art. This is my life - job, children, grandchildren, house-keeping and THEN maybe some time to paint! It's just not fair, is it? It has been my experience that many successful male artists I have known have been/are egocentric.
Barb