First Published May 27, 2016

This week I was sharply confronted with the injustice of the economy of scale in the western world.

My son is a very sporty boy. One afternoon, after he played soccer, he asked for a sports drink. Stopping in at the petrol station he ran in to buy a drink. I gave him $5 and expected change. I received 10c. 10c!! $5 for a 375ml sports drink!

Currently our dairy farmers are struggling with price cuts and they can’t even get 37c per litre *. The dedication these farmers put into their work is staggering. Early mornings, in all weather, no holidays or weekends, caring for animals and they can’t even get paid a decent amount for their labour! I know this personally as our friends are dairy farmers.

In contrast, a global corporation, which is worth millions, can put $5 (retail) *on a synthetic mass produced beverage.

What is going on with the world?

Where is the economy of scale?

‘Lotus’, monotype & soft pastel drawing on Fabriano paper 56 x 76 cm. “In Season'“ series

I bring this back to artists and handcrafted artwork. I speak for many artists when I say that we spend hours on our craft. We learn and practise our craft nearly every day. Like the dairy farmer, it is through long hours of dedication we produce our work. We are not mass produced. We are not global corporations. We are people with a passion, to create work for YOU.

These days’ people can go to a bargain store and buy a mass produced artwork. They have no real connection with the artwork, it simply is the correct colours for their wall and matches their furniture.

I ask the question, next time you want a piece, why don’t you make a connection with a local artist? You can find us on all social media these days.

Reach out. We don’t bite. We are sometimes shy but really appreciate a kind word about our work. It gives us motivation to keep on going.

Moreover, we appreciate your support, especially when you make a connection and buy our work. When you buy the work it is a beautiful reminder of your experience with the artisan. It evokes memories which are lasting. It is a purchase which keeps on giving, for both the artist and patron (buyer).

The local bargain shop doesn’t need your support regarding art. They have other products to sell which are mass produced.

Please support local artists. Buy branded milk. We may be a little more expensive but it is worth supporting local businesses.

Yours in art,

Bec xx

* Currently it is $1 litre retail for supermarket branded milk. I don’t know the cost price for sport drinks.

Economy of scale...Reach out & Get in touch with an artist.