Elitism in the Art World with Megan Auman (#90)

Elitism in the art world is not an easy topic to tackle—it’s
something that I even grapple with. To help make sense of these
complex issues, I’ve invited Megan Auman back to the podcast. Megan
and I talk about what exactly the art world is and dive into
problems that occur when entire groups of people are excluded from
the art world (or art worlds, I believe). Elitism in this art
world, the art world that is written about in newspaper reviews and
whose artists are shown in museums and sold at auction is rampant,
and that can be a real problem. Or is it?

In our conversation Megan and I unpack the many layers of elitism
in the art world, from the traditional artist models that need to
be permanently retired to the concern that too many artists are
undervaluing and underpricing their work. There is a lot that
needs to change, and this conversation is the perfect starting
point for any artist who is interested in exploring and
contributing to this difficult dialogue.


Highlights




Megan Auman shares the studio practice that evolved from her
childhood artmaking. (2:19)




‘This is the story that we’re not paying attention to.’ Is
elitism running rampant in the art world? (4:52)




Megan defines the elite art world (with a capital A) and the
inclusive artworld for the rest of us. (8:58)




The definition of art from 50 years ago just isn’t cutting it
by today’s standards. (15:29)




A look at the many levels of elitism in the art world, and
what exactly is wrong with all of them. (17:12)




What effect does the democratization of the art world have on
the monetary value of an artist’s work? (23:54)




The importance of valuing what you make enough to be paid for
that value. (25:54)




The basis of gender inequality in the art world. (27:45)




Defining elitism in the art world, why it’s worth ranting
against, and what we can do about it. (28:40)




Reaching the point that you can confidently call yourself an
artist and make your art truly accessible (not affordable).
(35:00)




If anyone could be an artist, how can we differentiate the
makers of the world and value what those makers make? (41:36)




Mentioned




Guardian interview with Robin Wall Kimmerer






The Straits Times Singapore Survey




Episode 39: Our Stuff Matters with Megan Auman




Resources




Full show notes including photos and listener comments




Art Career Success System




Art Biz Success Community




Intro and outro music by Wildermiss




Quotes




“When I talk about elitism in the art world, it’s not
actually the art world that I inhabit.” — Megan Auman





“There is this level of gatekeeping that happens and it’s a
problem because only certain, very specific kinds of people
get paid and supported in making their art.” — Megan
Auman







“It’s a matter of whether or not you believe that what you’re
doing has enough value that you should be paid for that
value.” — Megan Auman




 




“What I want is for more people to claim what they do as art,
and for us as a culture to value that art. Meaning that we
put our money where our mouth is.” — Megan Auman




 




“Calling yourself an artist does not preclude you from also
spending money on other people’s art. — Megan Auman




 


About My Guest


Megan Auman is an artist, metalsmith, teacher, writer, and
business coach. She designs jewelry that is simultaneously bold
and easy to wear. Though trained as a metalsmith, Megan draws
endless inspiration from textiles and fashion, seeking to
recreate the ease and fluidity of fiber and textiles in metal.
She works predominantly in steel, forming each element and link
by hand from wire, then torch welding each joint. Other welded
metals, including silver and bronze, are sometimes used to add
variety and contrast to her designs. Megan received a BFA in
metals from Syracuse University and an MFA in metals and jewelry
from Kent State University. While studying at Kent, she developed
a love for working with steel and torch welding, which led to the
development of her current line.


First posted: artbizsuccess.com/elitism-auman-podcast


Let’s do this together: https://artbizsuccess.com/community


Music by https://wildermiss.com