Banning Canvas

First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out--

because I was not a communist;

Then they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out--

because I was not a socialist;

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out--

because I was not a trade unionist;

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out--

because I was not a Jew;

Then they came for me--

and there was no one left to speak out for me.

Pastor Martin Niemöller

Reading the forums and art show applications lately, I’m reminded of the above poem. Certainly nothing as monumental as the history that this poem details, but definitely something worth thinking about.

Digital photography and computers have changed the face of art fairs and photography in general, some say not for the better. Some painters are especially disturbed about our new ability to print on canvas. A vocal few, rather than use the increased competition as motivation to find ways to differentiate themselves, are saying photographers should be banned or restricted in art shows.

Some shows are listening to them. Recently a show that last year accepted many photographers has decided to accept only three this year, all of them traditional, black and white, darkroom photographers. This was after they gladly accepted our jury fees. I will be the first to say, that black and white photography, when done well, is incredible. I wouldn’t be driving five hours next weekend just to meet Clyde Butcher if I didn’t think so. But I believe color has its place too.

But back to the poem. If photographers are successfully kept out of the art fairs, who will be next? Perhaps the jewelers? There are a lot of jewelers at art shows. Get rid of them and there will be a lot more spaces for painters. Or will it be the potters? There’s always been that nagging question, if it is functional, is it art?

The fact is, we are all artists and craftsmen and each art form has its challenges. We should stick together rather than attack each other.