It is what it is, so be it. Earlier this year, I posted the above sketchbook page and talked about it being the start of a series of short stories based on what I thought Picasso would say if asked some of the annoying questions, that I, like most artists get asked. For various reasons I decided to remove this only to realize that it was a mistake; I do want to do this and I will do it. I have other comic story ideas that I plan on working on, so keep an eye on this page in the coming months.
Many of the ideas that I have involve social criticism, something I’ve wanted to inject into my work for a long time. I’ve gotten to a point where I need to do such a thing; I need to to do it in order to grow, both as a person and an artist. There’s a lot of things going on in the world that aren’t right and I feel that it the artist’ job to be a mirror that’s held up to society. As I said, it’s something that I need to do. It takes cojones to be honest – it’s a dirty job but someone has to do it. I’m probably the most curious person of all when it comes to seeing what I will be producing. Good, bad, ugly, stupid, rude, lustful, crazy – whatever, it doesn’t matter. It’s there inside me and it has to come out in one way or another.. Stay tuned, things are about to get interesting.
By the way, here’s a list of my top ten most stupid questions people ask artists:
1. You can make money doing that? You wonder if people ask this of their mechanic, butcher, doctor, or lawyer.
2. Did you draw that? Usually asked while looking at a sketchbook page that’s filled with other drawings right next to the one they’re watching you draw. I kid you not. You can’t make this stuff up, folks.
3. Do you work Pro Bono? The “my project will enhance, publicize, and make your work well known,” bullshit line. Those who say such things don’t have any talent or skill; why would these people care about anyone’s work? Schmucks.
4. Can you make me look thinner? Wow, after nearly five years of art school I should have continued on for another ten so I could get my medical degree. Give me a break.
5. How do you do that? Perhaps the most clueless question of all.
6. Are you a great artist? Of course I’m a great artist, what else did you expect me to say? Of course, after saying this people will accuse you of being arrogant. Ah people, you just have to laugh….
7. Does that take a lot of work? Ah yes, the, “I saw the guy do it in 30 minutes on TV,” question. My answer, “Santa’s elves do the work for me while I sleep,” ha!
8. Are you pro? Most people can barely distinguish Picasso from the scribbles of a six year old. Schmucks.
9. Do you trace? Yep, I majored in advanced tracing at art school. People are utterly clueless to the tools and techniques that artists use to get things done.
10. Did you do it on Photoshop? People assume that you can create art by clicking a mouse without having any knowledge behind what you’re doing. This is why everyone is a graphic designer these days. Oh yes, and everybody knows how to draw and paint as well. Stupidity abounds in this day and age.
These are but a few of the annoying questions that I get asked as an artist. Trust me, there’s lots more that could make this list. The time has come to answer these – I think Picasso is a fine candidate for doing that. ¡Olé a Picasso!
I love the Picasso comic page! It is brilliant
Yes, I like this. This is something that’s a reflection on how people, nowadays, aren’t cultured or well rounded; they’re misinformed and make stupid comments in order to put people down. I’m glad that you’ve drawn this comic – congratulations, OK.