Artist humbled by level of artistry, craftsmanship

I'm writing in response to the low attendance at the exhibit (Tradition-Innovation) currently on display at the Sumter Art Gallery. As a working artist recently relocating to South Carolina from Chicago, I find myself humbled at the level of artistry and craftsmanship currently practiced along the southeast Atlantic coast.

Having lived in New York City and Europe (16 years) and in Chicago, my birthplace, what a delightful discovery it is to be surrounded by a rich source of profound talent unknown in the north.

For centuries, artists in Europe had the benefit of a highly organized guild system. Wagner wrote an opera about such a guild, "Die Meistersingers von Nurnberg." They were singers. The work on exhibit at the Sumter Art Gallery is outside a guild system, but it certainly sings out!

I hope more Sumter residents will take the opportunity to enjoy this exhibit. Time is running out.

JOHN F. COTNER
Sumter