On a recent trip to Baltimore, J-Man and I visited the American Visionary Art Museum, on the recommendation of fellow Whatsitters Godfree and Swells. I can’t praise it highly enough and won’t go into great detail about the collections we saw there. I leave it to you to experience for yourself; the great potential for delight and surprise should be left intact, so as not to spoil it. Suffice it to say that you will come away a changed person, an aim to which I believe all art should aspire.
While there, we dropped by the gift shop to check out the wares on offer. I was wandering and puttering when I spied on the wall in front of me a few pieces that resembled some of the art we had just seen in the museum. “Huh, reproductions of obscure artists? Who would put the money and effort into that?” I thought. Then I noticed a tiny sign that said, “Original Art.” Very cool!
I started looking more closely at the pieces there in front of me, trying to find something I’d like to pick up and take home to fit on our crowded walls. I was gingerly stepping over some boxes and tubs of items at my feet when I noticed that I was nearly treading on piles and piles of more original art, scattered and stacked willy-nilly just out of the aisle. I started to pay more attention to everything nearby, as more and more art began to reveal itself to me.
Finally, I settled my gaze on a plastic tub and cardboard box brimming over with drawings of a strongly compelling and colorful nature. I called J-Man over, and we commenced to dig through these containers, filled with the art of a man named David Gerbstadt.
We dug.
And we dug.
And, with great effort, we selected a few drawings to bring home as souvenirs. But what price art? In this case, two bucks a pop. A bargain at twice the price.
I am reminded, of course, of Mr. Godfree’s great find of 2009. Art, people, look around and you will find it!
happy independence day!
I am SO HAPPY you enjoyed the museum as much as I thought you would! I can’t wait to see your new art finds and how they transform your home in new ways!
These are soooooooo GREAT! I am filled with envy (of the creator and the acquirer).
wow. thanks for the photos and entry. made my week — touching the void is a true film- check it out. was great film- true story.
The artist, himself! Welcome to the Great Whatsit!
David, *you* made *my* week! Thanks for reading and commenting.