Some people wrote this challenge off as being “commercial” and not really fine art, but I genuinely tried hard and wanted to do a good job. My idea was to make a silhouette of an image of a woman holding a hat and facing a tree; I was depicting the main protagonist, Elizabeth, holding her lost lover’s hat. There was a tree in the background that symbolizes family lineage, a central theme in the book.
My critique with Simon was actually rather positive; he even remarked in front of the others that he thought I could win. He thought the imagery and choice of symbols was striking and he joked that he would absolutely pick it up in a bookstore. Of course I knew it was written by Jane Austen, and actually was really sad I hadn’t read the book. Simon said he hadn’t either and that it didn’t matter, that the piece still worked.
Regarding Jeannie’s comments, artists use references all the time… we had no access to internet, books, periodicals or our own imagery, so we would have to pose in front of a mirror or take a photo — many of us photographed ourselves. I did not intend to do a tightly rendered academic drawing; I made more of a loose vignette. It was an image of a woman holding a hat and facing a tree.
16 Comments
As an impartial viewer, I saw nothing from the show's editing that portrayed your work as being unconsidered. At least I formed no opinion of that, you seemed quite into the challenge and were very motivated to do well in a difficult challenge. Your work showed thought and effort, it was just that your concept was so off-target from the theme of the novel (a satire on manners) that it failed you. Well ,that and spell-check. I loved the hat, except the hat was so anachronistic for early 19th century it stood out to me as an error in that regard. I understand you had little time to capture the era or theme, and only had the terrible Keira Knightley version of the story in your mind to work from. ANOTHER reason I hate that version!!!! Btw, I really liked your 1st episode piece, how you ever whipped that together in time amazes me.
Hi. I actually thought your book cover was great in this episode. Some of the criticisms confused me like saying it would have been better if you left the portrait as a picture because that definitely wouldn't have been as alluring of a cover. Don't beat yourself up about the spelling of the author's name. It's an understandable mistake that I probably would have made myself (I'm from Texas so when I see 'Austen' I immediately think of 'Austin' the capitol) I was hoping that the editors of this show wouldn't distort what happens just to exaggerate peoples characteristics or any conflicts in the show, but from what you said it sounds like they are just doing the same thing that happens in most of the "reality" genre. I hate to say it, but since you are quite attractive (couldn't think of a way of saying that in a non-awkward way haha) and show a little bit of skin in your work, they probably will repeatedly cast you in a "seductress" sort of way for the purpose of ratings. One concern I had before 'Work of Art' even began was that I thought that viewing art was a different experience for each individual, so how can a few judges determine the absolute merit of a certain piece. But I understand it's a show and that they are "qualified", and I definitely prefer this setup to nothing hah. Well I would have been annoyed if you were eliminated instead of Judith in this episode, and I'm sure your work will speak for itself despite how the editors represent you, so just keep up the good work and keep being yourself. ..But i guess i'm just some random 21 yr old so I'm not sure how comforting my words are haha....and sorry beforehand about the awkward complement
I totally agree...that is why I research contestants on these reality gameshows as much as I can...the way the producers of a show choose to portray some people is completey insane and reckless. I am sorry this hjappenedto you but i appreciate your art and enjoy your work! Peat
I didn't look at it that way. It seemed like so much effort was put into the work that an incorrect assumption was made about a piece of the art. Isn't that a life representation, focusing so much on the desire for perfection, only to not notice an important element? How many live their lives focusing on the daily something, only to miss a critical moment in their lives that would have made a difference? On the surface it may appear as a dumb spelling mistake, but the underlying feelings tell a different story.
Don't let 'em get you down. I have lost respect for Bravo TV since it seems they will do anything to keep their ratings up.In the case of the "Real Housewives", I think things have gone beyond a reasonable standard of sanity several times that could have resulted in serious altercations that I don't think would have been tolerated anywhere else. (Unless it is staged. ) You are getting a lot of exposure and that seems to mean alot in the art industry. As a photographer, and seeing what photographs in Christie's auctions go for, I have to be skeptical about what is really going on beyond true art appreciation. You're a beautiful woman. so just stay true to yourself, and I hope you win. Hal
Wow, I'm sorry they edited so much and tried to make you look a certain way.... I mean I knew they edited but yeah.. that's a little much. I'm glad you didn't get eliminated and can't wait to see your work in future episodes.
My sympathies about their editing out Simon's positive comments about your piece. Since his comments were in conflict with the judges, I suppose they felt they needed to edit the comments out so as not to place into question either his authority as a "mentor" or the expertise of the judges. But it certainly raises serious doubts about the integrity of the production. Looking forward to seeing more of your work.
Interesting choice of work. I enjoyed reading Austen and I realize it's very difficult to grasp from just the synopsis. However, there is no long lost love in P&P. I liked the idea behind the cover, and the image was great. Personally, I think you should have won. I only wonder how much better it would be if you had previously read the book. Looking forward to seeing more of your work.
Interesting to read your account versus what I am very aware is an edited portrayal. Still, I would have to agree with the choices the judges made. I feel you started where I suspect alot of you work does. Seeing yourself as the subject, with female sexuality and eroticism juxaposed to traditional and contempory roles women play in society. Pride and Predjudice should have been a homerun.But you did pull back and without a clear idea of what you were presenting. I suspect you are not completely aware of you sexual power, and are not using it to its full potential. You are a very sexy girl, and I don't think you have issue showing it. I think you should use it to you advantage. Sex is a primal vehicle that can powerfuly convey anger, love, shame, passion, and pain. I hope you use it. Afraid to be called a whore? Well, that is the fear that will keep you from making great art. Create controversy and gain attention on a level that the others cannot compete. What a great way to piss Miles off. ...Just an opinion
Hey there! I haven't seen this episode yet, but I feel like in the past two they (BravoTV) were portraying you as some sort of bimbo on the show. I know you can't actually be like this, and this is why I hate reality television so much. I want to keep watching the show but before I see anymore episodes, I am going through each artist's website (and blog) to see who they really are. Bah, television! Well anyway, good luck! Your paintings and ideas are awesome!
Thank you! It's great that you are learning about us on your own. I hope you get something from the episodes and can sift through all the crap! xo
I can't but agree.I always wanted to write in my site something like that but I guess you'r faster.
Nice website! I enjoy several from the articles that have been written, and especially the comments posted! I am going to definately be returning!
Thank you very much for a intelligent article. Good job!
I've been enjoying reading your blog as it certainly offers a fresh perspective from the one given to us by Bravo, and often I think you're being portrayed quite simplistically. In this instance though, I have a hard time summoning much sympathy. The cover would have been more suited for a Harlequin novel.
The layout for your blog is a bit off in iCab. Even So I like your website. I may have to install a "normal" browser just to enjoy it. :)