Comments on: How do you know you’re an artist? with James Holmes (88)

By: James-Allan Holmes

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 12:10:25 +0000

Gary – I agree that the term is somewhat vague, I also believe it is relevant across many disciplines. Clarity enters into the conversation when we speak on a specific topic as in this case visual art. I noted this quote on your website:“Not wanting to go to my grave wondering if I could be an artist, I resigned a professorship of philosophy and went at it. Forty years later I’m still at it and, at times, still wondering. It’s been a fun and frustrating ride.”

It seems you have asked and explored this question yourself which is a worthy point for contemplation even as we evolve our painting practices.

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By: Gary Michael

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 18:46:27 +0000

Artist is a vague term and that’s a good thing. Who among us is qualified to set forth standards to which “artist” must conform or make final judgments about who conforms? Better to devote your mental energies to the business of improving your product than wondering if you’re an artist.

Gary Michael

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By: Vickie Martin

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 15:32:05 +0000

I was immediately drawn in to this interview – as I listened while on a walk in Englewood – where James is from. I love his plan and it made me think back – I held off calling myself an artist for a long time. In fact, I have just recently begun adding musician to the mix – and I’ve been playing the piano since I was five!!! It was so ingrained in my being that I couldn’t see the worth of defining myself as such. I thought his three steps brilliant and I love the way he embraced learning and critiques. He came across as a very kind and caring person that really has set goals for himself while going through a tumultuous time. Great listen while on a great walk!

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By: Meg Black

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 09:16:32 +0000

I listened to this podcast with great interest. As someone who earned a BFA and an MFA in studio art, I have not spent too much time considering whether I can call myself an artist or not. That said, I have noticed people who hold academic art degrees in art often refer to themselves as an artist based on this credential alone, whether they are still making art or not does not appear to be part of the consideration.

James’ self-defined credentials for when he felt he could refer to himself an artist is brilliant. He decided on three credentials and then made all three happen. I also loved his openness to critique, something that is difficult for many artists to accept. Bravo on this well thought out plan, James. I just loved listening to your interview.

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