Notes of
Concern…
…Jackson Blair
ANTHONISEN, JOHNSTON and ARTS
Writing a column that will be crafted prior to a major political
primary and printed days after the conclusion of that primary is a daunting
task.
So I have decided to be cowardly about it and say nothing
about politics this week!
From time to time I have talked with you about the “arts”.
In today’s column I want to introduce you to two really interesting players in
the broader arts field. My hope is that you will follow up on both these
recommendations and treat yourselves to a slower, broader exposure to the work
of these two men.
When I was growing up I was a real fan of short stories. I
like to think that it had something to do with a budding interest in reading
but my wife tells me it probably just related to my having such a short
attention span! It does not take a kid long to realize you can get an adult to
read to you if you approach with a very thin little book as opposed to say War
and Peace.
Short Stories are enjoying a Renaissance. And this
Renaissance is due in no small measure to a retired Headmaster and writer down
in Beaufort, SC who started Short Story America on Facebook. People interested
in the short story format and those who just enjoy a quick, but thrilling, read
flocked to this Facebook page. They tremendous growth has resulted in the
publication of the first anthology, a copy of which I have obtained and read.
Tim Johnston is the force behind this renewal of interest in
a long cherished art form. As Johnston travels throughout America and offers
readings at bookstores and clubs, perhaps you will have a chance to actually
attend one and learn first hand of his love of the short story. In the
meantime, drown yourself in the book, lose yourself in the online stories, and
get on the mailing list.
If you like to read, check out “Short Story America” on Facebook or go to the website shortstoryamerica.com
and begin what will undoubtedly be a wonderful journey for each of you.
Down in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, out in the middle of a
large river using a palette and easel designed for painting from amid a raging
stream in order to capture new views of nature on canvas, sits artist Daniel
Anthonisen.
Daniel has captured nature in ways I have not seen it
captured in many years. From small oils to large wall covering canvasses
Daniel’s work grabs your attention, demands your consideration, and sends you
dreaming for ways you could afford to collect it.
Daniel comes from a family of artists. His father, George
Anthonisen, is one of America’s best sculptors. So with a little help from the
“gene pool” and a lot of personal talent and love of nature he has built an
incredible collection. My wife and I traveled to Pennsylvania to attend his most
recent show. We were guests of his parents who are friends we hadn’t seen for
almost 40 years.
When you see such talent up close it is impossible not to
revel in the beautiful and marvel at the technique and detail. This man is
already well known at the Michener Museum and other Buck’s Country cultural
centers. As his fame grows, the value of his paintings will also.
Do yourself a favor and take a look at this talented young
man’s work. Visit the website at danthonisen.com You can also see Daniel’s work at the Travis
Gallery in New Hope, PA and on their website: travisgallery.com
So as everyone is dealing with the fallout of the New
Hampshire Primary and the coming contest in South Caroline, I leave you with
two thoughts:
If you are wary of the stock market, invest in some art. If
you do, be sure to take a close look at the work of Daniel Anthonisen.
If you are interested in investments of time and flights of
fancy rather than money, grab a hold of Short Story America and sit back, relax
and enjoy.
