As the Olympics get underway there is good news for the arts. The New York Times reported this week that four athletes will be participating in the Olympics in Pyeongchang, not as competitors, but as artists in residence.
Gold ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, 8.5 x 11 inches, Ink on paper No question, we have an Olympic caliber snoozer in the family.
Did you have any idea (I didn’t) that for almost 40 years (1912-1948) Olympic medals were awarded for artistic excellence in painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, and music in addition to athletics? The practice was instituted by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern games and the IOC. Classically educated, de Coubertin held the belief that to be a true Olympian one must exhibit skills in music and literature to round out athletic prowess. He couldn’t conceive of a re-creation of the original games without the inclusion of the arts. To read more about this forgotten piece of history, check out Joseph Stromberg’s article for Smithsonian.com which outlines the rise and fall of the arts segment of Olympic competition.
Silver ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, 8.5 x 11 inches, Ink on paper
Fast-forward to contemporary times…in strategizing a roadmap for the future of the Olympics, the IOC has instituted Agenda 2020 which, among other initiatives, recognizes that the arts should be restored to their rightful place at the Games. An artist in residence program was established in 2014, kicked off with French street artist JR, American Vine star Gerald Andal and German writer Tilman Spengler.
Bronze ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, 8 x 7 inches, Ink on paper
This year’s artists will be bringing a more direct return to de Coubertin’s original vision as, in addition to being artists, they are all former Olympic athletes. There will be no medals involved, but in keeping with the Olympic values of friendship, respect, and excellence, these artists will be making work alongside and, in some cases, with this year’s athletes.
I can’t think of a better way to elevate and promote the spirit of the Olympics.
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For more information on the partnership between artists and the Olympics, read about the AOTO (Art of the Olympians). A foundation created by the late Olympian and artist Al Oerter, AOTO is a “unique platform (that) shows the connection between sport, art and the Olympics and celebrates the Olympic and Paralympic athlete, while promoting Olympic ideals and values”.
And speaking of artist residencies, I just learned I will be heading to the Vermont Studio Center for Vermont Artists’ Week this spring!
“Who knew?” is right! Thanks for this. And CONGRATS on the residency. I know it will be stimulating and productive.
I love coming across unexpected nuggets of info like this! And thanks – I am quite excited about going to the Studio Center.
I did not know this….it gives me hope.
And, congrats on your residency.
Thanks Margaret – and yes, it’s such a great move to bring the arts to the Olympics.
Fantastic about your residency! Let me know what you plan to work on.
Thanks Judy. I think we’re about due for a phone catch-up.
YEAH! I’m so excited for you to attend Vermont Artist’s week…what a lovely gift and experience. I can’t wait to hear ALL about it.
I’m very excited too!
Congratulations! Great info about Olympics and the arts. I am new to you and your art, Elizabeth. I loved Quiet Moment in the Somerset Magazine! I am working on a textile piece in dyed indigo inspired by the song Starry Starry Night. It is Van Goghs Starry Night in kantha running stitch. It was your piece that motivated me to use my indigo cloth this way. Ps I love all your sketches of your precious dog!
Thank you for this lovely note Donna. I can’t begin to tell you how gratifying it is for me that you shared these thoughts & I would love to see your Starry Night piece when it’s finished.
Thanks for visiting the blog!