Magic of Modern Art Moments #6

Dear Magic of Modern Art Supporter,

This year is flying by!

Last week, I attended my first National Art Education Association (NAEA) Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. It was an unforgettable experience.

The conference hosted 4,000 attendees and 600 breakout sessions over three packed days. I met only a fraction of those present. The people I did connect with were remarkable—passionate, dedicated, and excited to hear about the Magic of Modern Art. 

A major focus was the increased struggle for arts funding and equity in public schools due to the destructive cuts made since #47 took office. Many teachers from red states shared that if they speak out, they risk losing their jobs. One thing was made clear, though. NAEA is firmly committed to advocating for art, artists, and educators. It was inspiring.

One of the highlights was the general session featuring one of the Guerrilla Girls. The Guerrilla Girls are an anonymous collective of women artists who expose discrimination and corruption in the art world by backing up their claims with statistics and using evocative images and language. It was a dream-come-true to be in the same room with one of them. Here’s their first and most iconic poster:

All Guerrilla Girls use the names of deceased women artists. Our speaker was founding member, Frida Kahlo. She opened by acknowledging our collective anxiety about the state of our government, then led us in a collective scream. Screaming with 4,000 others was cathartic!

Her talk was informative and inspiring, yet shocking. The corruption in the art world is worse than I imagined. Thankfully, the Guerrilla Girls and other activists have made a tangible impact in the art world. 

I’m thrilled to have joined the NAEA. I plan to attend next year’s convention in Chicago and am submitting a workshop proposal. In case you’re interested, anyone can join. 

Another highlight of the experience was the lovely dinner with the Education Manager of the McNay Museum and her assistant. Much to my delight, I’m conducting a workshop for some 40 San Antonio art teachers this month. The topic, “How to Talk to Your Students About Art,” will include a condensed Magic of Modern Art Tour. At the planning meeting in San Antonio last month, I was knocked out by the McNay Art Museum’s level of excellence, the excitement it generates, and its profound commitment to community involvement. 

Moving on to other news, we have a brand new slogan: “Spread the Magic.” Antonio Manega, designer extraordinaire, created two graphics, and we’re exploring how to use them.

 

Amid all this, my husband, Otto Fox, and I are preparing to move to Canada. Specifically, Vancouver, B.C. To spread the most magic before I leave, I’m organizing several small-group VIP Magic of Modern Art Tours in Austin.

I can’t tell you how much your support means to me. Thank you for reading this. Just knowing that you’re there, among this group of people who love art and appreciate its profound impact, inspires me. I’m always delighted to receive feedback, questions, and suggestions from you at Robyn@magicofmodernart.com.

 

Love, 

Robyn