Artist Mike Solomon on Art and Childhood in 1960's and 70's East Hampton.
Feb 12, 2024
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Mike Solomon, a renowned artist and son of influential painters Syd and Annie Solomon, shares captivating tales from his upbringing in 1960s and 70s East Hampton. He reminisces about the vibrant art scene and the legendary salons hosted by his mother. The playful rivalry between artists and writers comes to life through amusing anecdotes, including a hilarious encounter at Grey Gardens. Solomon also reflects on his parents' artistic legacies and the sense of community that shaped his formative years in this culturally rich environment.
Mike Solomon reflects on how his upbringing in a creative environment among renowned artists shaped his artistic identity and perspective.
The podcast highlights the significance of community and collaboration among artists in fostering creativity and navigating financial challenges in the Hamptons.
Deep dives
Artistic Heritage of Eastern Long Island
Mike Solomon shares his deep-rooted connection to Eastern Long Island's artistic scene, influenced significantly by his parents, Sid and Ann Solomon. Growing up in the Hamptons among legendary artists such as Pollock and de Kooning, he reflects on the vibrant cultural milieu that shaped his upbringing. Solomon explains how his family’s home became a social hub for artists, writers, and musicians, fostering a community that thrived on creative exchange. This artistic legacy was not just personal but instrumental in establishing the Hamptons as a prominent cultural destination in the mid-20th century.
Social Dynamics Among Artists and Writers
The social interactions between artists and writers were highlighted, with playful rivalries and creative camaraderie defining their relationships. Solomon recounts regular gatherings at Georgica Beach, where artists and writers would meet daily, blurring the lines between work and leisure. He notes memorable anecdotes, including the spirited artist vs. writer baseball games that showcased their competitive nature and sense of fun. These interactions cultivated an environment rich in creativity, where personal relationships greatly impacted artistic expressions.
Challenges and Changes in Artistic Life
The podcast emphasizes the evolving challenges faced by artists in the Hamptons over the decades, particularly regarding financial sustainability. Solomon discusses how many artist families were able to survive by selling their work or engaging in other projects, with some experiencing financial stability due to the art market's fluctuations. He elaborates on the difficulty faced by older artists as younger pop artists began to dominate sales, creating a cultural shift. This reflected the broader changes in society and the art world during that time.
The Essence of Community and Creativity
Solomon reflects on the importance of community in fostering creativity, arguing that the lifestyle among artists is based on proactive engagement rather than passive existence. He describes how gatherings were characterized by collaborative efforts rather than ostentatious displays, showcasing the depth of connection among peers. The essence of their lifestyle served as a model for community building, emphasizing the joy of participation and mutual support in creative endeavors. This paradigm encourages a renewed perspective on how communal relationships contribute to artistic vitality.
Esperanza and Irwin welcome artist Mike Solomon. Mike had an extraordinary childhood, growing up as the son of Syd and Annie Solomon. Syd was part of the Ab-Ex movement, and while he was a painter of great renown, the salons Annie hosted in her home were legendary. Mike, who is an important painter in his own right, shares the stories of what went on in the East Hampton in 1960's and 70's East Hampton.
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