In the world of art, one may either go through the time-honored path of basic learning or take the Route of the Three Ss. The Three Ss are a prodigy’s way of getting one’s foot in the door of learning art and the three Ss stand for Salons, Salerooms, and Shops.
The Three Ss have made art more accessible to everyone regardless of their background.
Learning at Salons
Salons are where the history of art is taught and learned. It is a style of art, just like a painting or a sculpture, that had its beginnings in 17th century France. The Salon has always been known for displaying the latest work of all the available and rising artists.
Salons were popular for their democratic and public forums, which allowed artists of all ages and backgrounds to put forward their best works. The goal of the Salons was to get the public to appreciate art and to teach them the taste of good art.
This helped to spread the appreciation of art from the courts of royalty to the common people. During the 18th century, local and national exhibitions were organized to encourage budding artists to work harder and paint better.
In a typical exhibition, artists would set up their work on the Salon walls, allowing visitors to appreciate them and select the best ones through a process of elimination. As the tradition of Salons spread so did the concept of commercial art and the rise of the academy and museum. One of the most popular and influential Salons in the 18th century was the French Salon of 179
This Salon showcased a selection of contemporary artwork from both Europe and America. The Salon introduced the public to forms of art such as modernism, cubism, surrealism, and expressionism. It was the first to feature the works of Monet, Manet, Degas, and Cezanne.
Learning in Salerooms
The second S stands for Salerooms. Salerooms are venues that specialize in selling and auctioning off artwork.
This is where the public can participate in the sale and purchase of artwork without having to go through the Salon selection process. Salerooms are the places where dealers buy and sell artwork. They are popular among art buyers who have limited knowledge in art or who are too busy to check out the Salons.
Auction houses and the internet have made it easier for the public to purchase artwork without having to physically go to a Saleroom. Through the internet, one can bid for a work of art from the comfort of their home or office.
The internet has also made it easier for art lovers to exchange ideas and form a community. One example of a Saleroom is the Sotheby’s auction house. This auction house is known to offer different varieties of artwork ranging from paintings to sculptures and jewelry.
Salerooms are invaluable for art collectors who want to buy art at a reasonable price.
Learning at Shops
The third S is Shops. Art shops are places that specialize in selling art, either original or copies.
This can be in the form of prints, posters, photographs, or figurines. Art shops are convenient places to purchase artwork. However, the artwork may not necessarily be of high quality, as the focus of the shop is on selling items rather than on the quality of the work itself.
On the other hand, art galleries are places where those who don’t want to buy a painting or sculpture can go to appreciate the artwork. Art galleries usually have exhibitions and talks by artists and give visitors a chance to gain more knowledge about art. Galleries are also popular for showcasing artwork from emerging artists.
In conclusion, the Three Ss of art – Salons, Salerooms, and Shops – have made learning more accessible and convenient for everyone, regardless of their background. Salons give an opportunity for aspiring artists to showcase their work and for the public to have an appreciation of art.
Salerooms are great venues for art collectors to find and purchase art easily. Art shops provide an accessible way to purchase artwork.
Understanding the Three Ss of art can help one gain a better understanding of art appreciation.