Let's stipulate that a piece of art is first and foremost an artifact. (See the examples shown below)
Art as a designation for constructions of high aesthetic content has been adulterated (as in two parts water to one part wine). It is used too easily by too many to describe too much.
Artifact, on the other hand, derived from the Greek words for skill and making or forming, neatly conveys the intention to join meaning and form synergistically, either for personal pleasure or for the edification of a larger community. The very design of the word, artifact, is tremendously suggestive: art is joined to fact by an i. The i is, metaphorically, the joint that enables and creates articulation: i.e., interpretation. It represents the creative consciousness.
In any case, this is a gallery of artifacts. At present, the selection criteria are largely undefined. In general, however, the intent is to provide an opportunity for as yet largely unknown, but nevertheless exciting, image-makers to share their work. Initial selections are drawn from the site host's circle of friends and acquaintences. However, all submissions to gsmichaels@yahoo.com will be considered, as time allows.
(Please note that the site host actually works for a living, has marital responsibilities, and is also commited to creating images. Consequently, no promises are made on the frequency or promptness with which submissions will be reviewed and responses generated. )
|  Image: Judy in the Stars Artist: Professor of Art (retired) William Girard, Royal Oak, MI Oil on Canvas | 
Image: Numinous Midwife Artist: Glenn Scott Michaels Polychromed Plaster, Wood & Metal 
Detail: |
| 
Image: The saltcellar of King Francis I of France Artist: Florentine sculptor Benvenuto Cellini Cast Gold on Ivory base circa early 1540s. Cellini also created bronzes. In his Autobiography, Cellini wrote that the two figures in this piece were "fashioned like a woman with all the beauty of form, the grace and charm, of which my art was capable." The piece is 26 by 33.3 cm (10.25 by 13.1 in) and was stolen from the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria, in 2003. It is considered priceless. People with information regarding this theft should contact the nearest FBI field office or United States Embassy. | 
Image: One Afternoon Artist: David Chorlton; Phoenix, AZ Watercolor & Pastel @ 22" x 30" |
