They say, "a buyer is buying You the Artist, not just the Art". In 2002 when
I created my first website I took this concept to heart. I decided if people
wanted me to be part of the package, I was going to give it to them. My website became a somewhat sarcastic, possibly narcissistic monument to the Face/Brand/Name recognition that one apparently needs to sell themselves, and their art as "Product". For most
of us, our identity and our art are inextricably entwined. My work at
that time was raw and personal. It was also accompanied by the publication of my Feminist,
Humanist, Womanist book "Dissecting The Western Woman Artist; An Artist's
Dialogue by Amy E. Fraser". The first AEFraser website was a creative
piece intended to make a big bold First Impression. My 28 year old self wanted the
viewer to experience a woman who is smart, sexual, provocative and maybe a
little bit scary with the Art to match. It was a confrontational, love it or
hate it scenario which would engage some and isolate others. The original description
was "Art with message, meaning and intent. Art based on psychological,
physiological and intellectual aspects of women. Art with truth, emotion and
imagination. Art that possesses the power to provoke, enlighten and inspire.
Art that isn't made to match the furniture. Art created by Amy E. Fraser".
Here is a look at the original 2002 AEFraser Header and Icon designs that shaped the look of the first
version:
 |
| 2002 Version of Header and Clickable Icons for AEFraser.com |
 |
| 2002 AEFraser.com Artist Information by Amy E. Fraser |
 |
| 2002 AEFraser.com Gallery Portal by Amy E. Fraser |
 |
| 2002 AEFraser.com Painting Gallery by Amy E. Fraser |
Time and circumstance tends to change an artist. I've
gotten older, become a wife and mother. My world views and immediate concerns
have evolved but I still value my younger self and embrace all aspects and
creations that mark the journey. Does the current me regret the choices of 28
year old me? Not on your life. Maybe I didn't make the best First Impression
with the original website, but I was true to myself and the work of
the time. That kind of honesty is brave and powerful and something to be
proud of. However, I must admit that current 46 year old me does in fact make
art "to match the furniture" and you can find it all on the most
recent version of AEFraser.com.
Please know I am not here to tell anyone how to be a
better artist or make more sales. I'm just thinking out loud and sharing a few thoughts on the blog as I work out what sort of First Impression I
want to make with my new website The Legend of Hare Terra. And of
course, I would be thrilled to have you follow along as I develop the next evolution
and presentation of my art. If this helps others on their journey, even if it's
by learning from my mistakes, then I am glad I could help. But if you do want
my advice, I say just be true to you. Don't listen to just anyone's advice,
especially someone you don't especially admire or intend to emulate. People
will always be there to tell you what to do, but only YOU can know what is best
for you.
Comments