International Artists’ Appreciation Day

Since 1901, the Nobel Prize has been awarded in the fields of physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace. But not for art. Why? Most likely because Alfred Nobel, also the inventor of dynamite and an armaments manufacturer, probably had no, or limited, interest in painting, ceramics, sculpture, or music although he was an aspiring writer and poet.

 To address this void;  International Artists’ Day was established in 2004 by Canadian painter Chris MacClure. October 25th is a day which officially celebrates all forms of art — paintings, sculpture, ceramics, glass art, photography, architecture, music, and more. Through this day of recognition, we are given an opportunity to show our respect for the passion and creativity of all artists. No coincidence that MacClure chose the birthdate of Pablo Picasso.

 Works of art, in any medium, are tangible expressions of human creativity and portray a myriad of things. Art can illustrate the beauty of life or show a bitter reality. Works of art have not only recorded the turbulence of times past, revolutions, rebellions, and conflict but have just as often been a path to escape these through their testament to celebrations. It is impossible to deny that every culture has history and accomplishment expressed through some form of art.  

 Art is not a passive phenomenon, serving as a mere reflection of the world around us. Rather, it stirs and evocates the expressing and sharing n of our innermost emotions about this world. These feelings, from joy and sorrow to anger, create bridges of understanding between diverse groups of people. By transcending languages and cultures, art becomes an invaluable asset in fostering unity and peace. Art is not just an expression of emotion but also a medium for communicating ideas. It can act as therapeutic relief, a conduit for self-expression, or simply a way to appreciate life's beauty. Through art, we can chronicle history, embody societal values, and comment on political or social events.

 Some maintain that art does not make as significant a contribution to the world as science or mathematics. In my opinion, this is totally false. Why? The scope of art is immense. Its importance has evolved over time and is ever changing. However, consistently through the centuries, there are six consistent reasons why art has remained vital to humanity:

1.  Escape from reality: Art offers a refuge. We can immerse ourselves in experiences other than those we are personally experiencing.

2.  Fosters community: Art establishes a shared identity and sense of belonging among diverse groups. It allows  us to experience different worlds and perspectives.

3.  Evokes self-expression and awareness: Art provides a platform to voice our feelings, thoughts, and identities.

4.  Encourages contemplation and reflection: Through art, we can introspect and ponder life's mysteries.

5.  Provides entertainment and joy: Beyond its deeper meanings, art can also be sheer fun and enjoyment.

6.  Elicits strong reactions and transformation: Art has the power to inspire awe, wonder, and reflection. Art possesses the unparalleled ability to alter perceptions and catalyze change

In conclusion:

 Historically, art has manifested in various form. Whether visual, music or literature, each has played and continues to play a pivotal role in shaping civilizations and then as a reflection of such. The “true” value of art has been debated through the ages betwixt those who insist that the six preceding reasons do not elevate it to a Nobel worthy significance and those who as vehemently hold the opposite view.

 Without question, art's monetary worth can be significant but I, and legions of others, staunchly maintain that its most intrinsic merit lies in the mere act of its creation. However, art is not just a creative endeavor as it is a transformative power that shapes, influences and reflects society since it possesses the unparalleled ability to alter perceptions and catalyze change. Some specific examples: in ancient Greece, art and music were believed to be the only channels to communicate with the gods. In the Renaissance period, art was a major force in moving European societies out of the stagnation in innovation and creation and appreciation of life and beauty that characterized the preceding  “dark ages.” This was accelerated in the following Age of Enlightenment period where art moved from just serving the Church, State and aristocracy to being held up that in the new society, art should be “for the people,” and that it should be moral instead of immoral – teaching people right and wrong. Over the decades, artists have mirrored such evolution, challenges, and aspirations, as seen in movements like Dadaism, Surrealism, and Pop Art.

 While some dismiss it solely as a form of entertainment, others see it as a vital part of human existence. Art is differentiated from design or craft because it is not  bound by functionality. Furthermore, art serves as a cultural ambassador to diverse lifestyles and histories whereas design and craft do not generally aspire to or achieve this education.

 The emotions, skills, and energy poured into each piece by its creating artist are what makes it invaluable. Artists strive to ensure that their creations resonate and endure so that it may leave a lasting impact. They present their vision as a unique means of expression, allowing us to share complex emotions and ideas that words or formulas might fail to capture.

 In 2010, at the opening reception of the Chalet retrospective “The Art & Artisans of Chalet Glass”, Chalet artist Giovanni Voltalina spoke these very poignant words upon seeing the more that 200 people in attendance be swept up in the beauty of over 300 pieces of Canadian art glass displayed in a single room:

 “I did not realize at the time that we were artists but I now know that we were artists.”

 This article was written in recognition of all the artists, past and present, unknown or celebrated, here or outside Canada and to express my personal appreciation and acknowledgement for each and every single moment that their creativity has moved me, taught me, entertained me and allowed me to share a moment with another. I am especially grateful for the creative talents within my immediate family – I am blessed to have a son and daughter that are artists

Self portrait and sister’s portrait by artist Andrew Patterson, 2022.

On display in my home.

And a poem about the glass was written in 2010 by my daughter, Melissa Patterson, as a surprise inclusion in my first book “The Shapes and Colours of Chalet Glass.”

 Vetro Bello

history entombed in

beautiful glass

fingers of crystal

stretching upwards

spreading outwards

encompassing the colours

of the rainbow

from red to violet

and back again

and some betraying the green

of their uranium soul

in the dark

each piece of the past

dazzling the future

Billy Preston and Dennis Wilson (the Beach Boys) wrote “You are so Beautiful” and then Joe Cocker took this ballad global in 1974. I thought a particular live version of his was perfect to accompany the Chalet pieces (all favourites from my collections of past and present) showcased in this appreciation video.

 Joe Cocker performing on October 25, 1996 in Baden Baden, Germany, during his “Organic Tour.”

The final chapter of my newest book, “Chalet Crystal Clear Continued” is titled “The Glasshouse Artists” and is a biographical documentation of over 65 artists of all the Canadian glasshouses of the Chalet era. For some I was only able to record by name and I am very sure that there are many artists missing from this summary and compilation.  If you know of any artists that have not been included and should be, please contact me through this Web site. “CCCC” (as with the other books that came before) is dedicated to the Chalet artists. However, if you do not have the book at hand, I would like to also direct you to other pages on this Web site that recognize these artists and appreciate the beauty of their work.