I Could Do That!

Above Photograph – “Eve in Defiance of the Lord and his Garden” by Daniel W. Coburn

You may have witnessed this scenario firsthand; Walking through a museum or exhibit, someone will approach a painting or sculpture and proclaim “I COULD DO THAT!”

I’ve had people approach me with the same comment about my own work.

Comment: Well, I could do that.
Possible Response: Yes, you probably could have, but you didn’t.
Actual Response: This image represents a moment in time that cannot be reproduced. I made a series of creative choices that make this image completely unique. I chose to make it public because it expresses my vision or creative ideal that could not be expressed in any other form. This work is a manifestation of my personal life experience, and is a representation of my artistic convictions. This single image is part of larger cohesive body of work.

Of course, every artist might have a different explaination, but I think it is important to have a response to such a question.

Do we treat these instances with sarcasm or education? As much as I would enjoy the previous, I’ve found it’s easier and more productive to be nice. Take the opportunity to discuss why your work and your vision is unique. I enjoy talking with people about what I do, even if the conversation starts off on the wrong foot.

Self Publishing/The Business End of Art

Rocky Mountain National Park – Rediscovering Paradise
Preview this book in its entirety on my website beginning Monday, August 20th.

I am currently in the process of self-publishing my first book. This work is a departure from the landscape and figurative work that I am known for. I recently returned from my residence at RMNP. I brought back a series of images_ a photographic essay I guess you would call it. Most artists focus on the majestic beauty of these national treasures, and I did the same. But, while I was there I also attempted to capture the chaos of traffic, large mobs of people, the personalities of visitors, and the dedication of park staff. I returned with my first documentary project. I learned a great deal and I am tremendously proud of these images.

Why?
Why didn’t I focus on the landscape? I could have easily brought back a few dozen images that were marketable and “living room friendly.” This place is like a living, breathing postcard.

The answer is that I am genuinely concerned for the preservation of this amazing place and other places like it. Most people only visit a place like this once in their life. Most visitors don’t realize that over 3.5 millions sets of footprints tread over these fragile grounds every year. I hope the book will raise some awareness, and instill a sense of respect for these places that we should all value and protect for generations to come. I also hope that I captured a snapshot_ an accurate historical record of RMNP in it’s current state.

A big risk?
Does this type of project come with a large financial risk? Not really. The magic of the internet and high quality digitial printing have made it affordable for artists to create a professional looking product at an affordable price. It’s no longer necessary to print 5,000 copies of a publication to bring down the cost per unit and create a healthy profit margin in retail. Will I be making a ton of dough? probably not, but if I was concerned about becoming wealthy I wouldn’t have chosen art as a profession.

Does this type of project come with an emotional risk? Of course. Every time I choose to show a new piece on my website or in a gallery I am taking this type of risk. I consider it a risk because I am very close to my work. My emotional state has a tremendous effect on my level of creativity and it impacts the choices I make as my work continues to evolve. Positive feedback is great and it keeps me going, but I am challenged by adversity. I try to use criticism and negativity as a creative vehicle by transforming anger into passion for my work.

Check out these places if your interested in self-publishing:
http://www.blurb.com
http://www.lulu.com

The business end of art
I have a full time job as a graphic designer. I’m not crazy about it and it offers me very little in the realm of creativity. At the same time, it allows me to live comfortably. Sometimes I view this job as a trap, but in reality, it affords me creative freedom that other full time artists don’t have. If some idiot doesnt think my work will look good hanging over his sofa_ so be it. I have a hearty supply of Ramen Noodles in the cabinet. :c)

Video of the Week

Hello Everyone,
I recently completed a short film/slideshow of my work for promotional purposes. I can’t stand to see myself on film or hear the sound of my recorded voice, but I hope you find it somewhat interesting.

Watch it here or watch it on YouTube.com

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Limited Edition Prints available at these Fine Galleries:

Strecker-Nelson Gallery
406 1/2 Poyntz
Manhattan Kansas
785-537-2099

Leopold Gallery
324 West 63rd Street
Kansas City, MO 64113
816.333.3111

SouthWind Gallery
3074 SW 29th St # 1
Topeka, KS 66614
(785) 273-5994

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PHOTGRAPH FEATURED IN LAWRENCE ART GUILD ALL MEMBERS SHOW

Lawrence Art Guild All Members Show
July 27–August 24
Lawrence Arts Center
940 New Hampshire
Lawrence, Kansas

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PHOTOGRAPHS TO BE FEATURED AT SOUTHWIND GALLERY OF TOPEKA

15TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBIT
WORKS BY OVER 50 OF THE REGIONS PROMINENT ARTISTS

SouthWind Gallery
3074 SW 29th Street
Topeka, KS. 66614
785-273-5994

August 13 – Sept 15

Sept 7th First Fridays Gallery Walk Reception

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6 GALLERY IN LAWRENCE

The grand opening of the new 6 Gallery, 817 Massachusetts in downtown Lawrence, will take place on September 7, from 6 – 9pm. Daniel will have work in the show’s themed exhibit entitled “Thresholds”.

6 Gallery
817 Massachusetts St.
Opening Reception: Sept 7 6-9pm

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CITYARTS GROUP EXHIBIT: LOUIS COPT, PHIL EPP, DANIEL COBURN

CityArts gallery
334 N. Mead in Wichita, Kansas
Sept 5th – Sept 28th
Reception on Sept. 28, 6 – 9pm

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DANIEL W. COBURN SOLO EXHIBIT AT 12 12 GALLERY – RICHMOND VA

Between Earth and Sky – Photographs by Daniel W. Coburn
November 9th – December 16th, 2007
12 12 Gallery
12 East 12th Street
Richmond, Virginia 23224
(804) 233-9957