Observations of an art slut
by Garth Walker
Some 25 years after selling my creative soul to the devil (commercial graphic design), I've been hanging around the edges of the art world, both locally and abroad. Here are some shared thoughts to see out our 2003:
1. South Africa is the globe's last creative undiscovered 'Wild West'. I firmly believe we are the most talented and creative nation on earth.
2. If we are not careful, London, New York or Tokyo will steal 'our art' for themselves - and from under our noses.
3. Many of the big corporate's have art collections. Ask them which has proved the better bottom-line investment, the art collection or rugby? (Substitute cricket/ tennis/ athletics blah, blah...).
4. Stupid aren't they?
5. The crop of newly visible top-end dealers in Jo'burg and Cape Town are world class (other cities are lost in the wilderness). I think they are very brave, and I salute them. Local art competitions are thriving. Viva! But please overhaul the judging. It's not rocket science to find a balanced panel. There will always be bitching at the results. For the sponsors, a simple plea: "FOR GOD'S SAKE STAY!"
6. Much of the art around is over-hyped art wankery showing little talent and crappy presentation. Those who buy will never see an adequate return. Even Sanlam will perform better. If you don't agree look at local auction sale hammer prices for living artists. There are VERY few exceptions.
7. A lot of the current 'big names' won't make it in the long term due to minimal talent and kak attitudes. Time is ruthless in its judgment. We will get over the current politically correct/ struggle/ feminist/ [insert whatever] fetish. Please be patient.
8. Only buy what you like and can't live without. NEVER buy "'cause it's a good investment", or worse still, because the "decorator said it'll look great in the loft".
9. The good stuff (and there is VERY good stuff about) is the cheapest in the world. Buy now 'cause Fritz from Frankfurt and Randy from SoHo are.
10. Quality South African photography will far out-perform equivalent local fine art (as a tradable international investment). Indigenous tribal art will outperform both - and by miles. The collectors and buyers of the latter aren't local either.
Happy Christmas (or equivalent), and may all your presents come framed.
Garth Walker is a graphic designer. He is also the founding director of Orange Juice Design; editor and publisher of the Ijusi 'zine; a highly regarded personality in international graphic design circles and generally an all-round nice guy from Durban.
