Dear Editor,
Do you know a way to paint pictures without using paint? I am sure there are many who would delight in solving that puzzle. Recently the Government of Guyana made an encouraging and impressive contribution by reviving the national visual arts competition, while they have promised to continue their support of the arts with a biennial. But how can artists gain the recognition that they desire when they have no art materials with which to create works? Some artists in their need to work use available house paints, and create paintings which no doubt will fade in due course. Fine art should be created with the intention of longevity in mind. Many collectors purchase art with the clear
intention of making a sound and profitable investment, and a faded work would have to be looked on as a bad investment. An obvious fact is that a few fortunate practitioners with relatives and friends abroad have the much needed materials sent to them, but this arrangement is not available to everyone.
I have noticed that nearly every modern contrivance is made available in Guyana, but with the burgeoning number of artists in the country, why has no one thought of opening an art supplies outlet? Why does the government not do it? An art supplies store would be a multi-faceted investment ‒ money would be made from the sale of materials, and the artists will surely improve their skills of application.
Organizers of the visual arts competition were overwhelmed by the number of entries received. Does this revelation not inform all those involved that there are artists who want to work? Let us all make an effort and have this aesthetic movement become a golden vision.
Yours faithfully,
Jorge Bowenforbes
