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The Classical Arts were probably murdered here in America, long before I was born.

You know, held at gun point in a dark alleyway, and shot execution style because it had no money to give. Something like that.

When I run ads for my previews, I pick a wide range of countries. After doing some research, and of course, meshing that with experience, it’s safe to say America doesn’t know what I mean half of the time when I write.

It isn’t a joke. Statistically speaking, individuals in India read 10 hours a week, while Americans average 5 hours at best. Most of it has to do with all there is to entertain, and how much people have to work. But it also boils down to family background, goals, interests, and mindset. I’m from America, my peers were barely keeping their heads above water back in the 90s.

While some people find success in selling their art in the US, others have often moved to different countries because America doesn’t appreciate refined tastes.

That is okay, showcasing my work abroad is better! I like meeting different people from various backgrounds, and I’m interested in learning new things. With that being said, the supposed decline America has been seeing isn’t new. There were many individuals in all grade levels during my school years who could barely read, comprehend or do simple math.

It has to do with home life – I’m not here to judge. I was a child that had to read books and tell them back to my parents. Ha, we are not the same! The education system can’t keep families afloat where parents and guardians may slip up, miss something or not care. Some households had single parents who did all they could.

And a lot fell through the cracks.

Americans are bred on sheer arrogance, coupled with ignorance. If the world has learned anything from that, it’s a terrible duo.

That lack of refinement swept up art programs, cut the laces to point shoes, and disabled imaginations country wide. The only thing saving the idea of art in this barren land are people who are already artists – aside from educational systems (or there lack of).

So, when you are pushing your books or ideas, look abroad. Play with demographics, locations, learn your time zones and understand the people and the culture. Step outside of your comfort zone and learn something new.

If not for art, certainly for yourself.