ART FOR MASSES.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 366, 22 February 1937, Page 5

ART FOR MASSES.

Over-dependence on the Rich Deplored.

Press Association—Copyright. London, January 23

A plea that the creative gifts of the artist should be used “not only for the gratification of private people, but for the general interests of the community,” was made by Sir William Rothenstein, addressing the Oxford Luncheon Club to-day. Artists, he said, had to rely on the caprice of a few wealthy people. It seemed to him that to be dependent on even the kindliest collector was in itself not enough. Again and again they could think of possibilities which seemed to many of them to 'be entirely neglected.

From my own experience,” added

Sir William, “themoment simple people see the orduary things of life and their ordinary Ways' of living set down in paintings they look upon them with completely fresh eyes. “If people in authority and positions of responsibility would think of these possibilities they wouTd not only be conferring immense benefits on those who live round them, but on the creative vitality of the country.

“I do not believe our painters and sculptors would be so wantonly experimental if they were harnessed to work such as illuminating the common things of life and giving them raniance and decency.”