I am writing in regard to the July 15th editorial about downtown vitality. The author has many good suggestions and I agree with both the ideas and the concepts. The art walk idea, however, did get my attention. Since I retired from teaching, art has been my business. I contributed nine prints, or framed prints last year to various charities, fund raisers and events in Albert Lea and in past years a like number. I viewed this as a civic responsibility and a source of advertising for my work. My total local sales were close to nonexistent. A few months ago I got a call from one person who bid on a donated item, thrilled that she had gotten it for such a low price, and would I give her a companion piece for the same price. Does this help me as an artist or businessman?

My art requires a large investment in custom framing, a professional display, travel, printing, advertising, research and time. Almost all of this I purchase locally. Just like the downtown merchant, I have an expectation to make a reasonable profit for my investment. If I hang my inventory in someone’s store downtown, I assume several risks. In the past I have had work stolen in just such a setting. I expect, but cannot assume, reasonable care. I do a show circuit in cities like LaCrosse, Wis.; St Louis; Omaha, Neb.; Lincoln, Neb.; Kansas City, Mo.; and the Twin Cities, with many well-known professional regional artists. Few would do an art crawl unless they could have some control over their work and the chance to meet potential customers. 

Many people worked hard at the last attempt at an art crawl here in Albert Lea, the next effort needs to be well planned, well advertised, and well attended by local people as well as draw customers from the area. It would also help if someone bought something. I treated the art crawl as a show, did a mailing, and sold to several customers from the Twin Cities, but none locally. Many of my customers were in Albert Lea for the first time and commented on how nice our city was. I really tried to do my part, but it is not fair to ask an artist to continue to give with little in return, just because they enjoy doing art.

 
Rory Mattson

Albert Lea