The inmates are running the asylum!

[Marvin Mattelson]

The two images below were both recently featured in the news. The landscape sold at auction for $1.7 million dollars. The portrait was the top winner at the

[Julie Deane]

A few beautiful works of art, a few beautifully painted and intriguing works, a whole lotta photos and a whole lotta ugly.

[Natalie Hunsaker]

Unbelievable, but interesting commentary on our times!

[Denise Hall]

Originally Posted by Natalie Hunsaker

Unbelievable, but interesting commentary on our times!

It seems like the term GP (not to insult anyone but...general public) now can also be applied to judges in National/International portrait competitions

When I talk about my portrait work to people I meet shopping, socializing, etc. I usually have to explain that the word "portrait" is not a "photograph" but a painting. Most of them only associate the word "portrait" with the Sears Portrait studio, Portrait Innovations, etc.

We already know we have an uphill climb - but the fact that these highly aclaimed competitions are now mixing photographic portraits with our painstakingly painted portraits just adds insult to injury.

I agree with Marvin - the inmates are running the asylum. What to do? What to do?

I'll just keep explaining to all the strangers I meet who are slightly interested. Maybe it will work?

Keep on painting everyone!

[Terri Thickstun]

I have to keep telling myself to remain open minded :-)...but I do think it's a shame that the artist statement was optional for a show that apparently was meant to focus on personal interaction with the subject. This makes me wonder if this is how Virginia Outwin Boochever, who as noted as being outstanding for her knowledge of the subjects and artists in the works displayed in the National Portrait Gallery would have intended her generous donation to be used.