Artist mails posters

What a fascinating topic!

Artist Mails, also known as Postal Art or Mail Art, is a form of art that involves creating and sending artworks through the postal system. This movement emerged in the 1960s and has since become a popular way for artists to share their work with a wider audience.

Here are some interesting facts about Artist Mails:

  1. Democratization of art: Artist Mails democratized the art world by making it accessible to anyone with a stamp and an envelope. It allowed artists to bypass traditional galleries and institutions, and connect directly with their audience.
  2. Global reach: Artist Mails have been sent to every corner of the globe, making it a truly international art movement. Artists from all over the world have participated, exchanging artworks and ideas.
  3. Unconventional formats: Artist Mails often take the form of unconventional formats, such as postcards, envelopes, stickers, and even found objects. This challenges traditional notions of what constitutes "art."
  4. Collaboration and exchange: Artist Mails often involve collaboration and exchange between artists. This has led to the creation of new artworks, networks, and communities.
  5. Preservation and archiving: Many Artist Mails are preserved and archived in museums, libraries, and private collections, providing a unique window into the history of the movement.

Some notable artists associated with Artist Mails include:

  1. Ray Johnson: An American artist known for his "drip paintings" and "mail art" activities.
  2. Joseph Beuys: A German artist who used mail art as a means of communication and collaboration.
  3. H.R. Giger: A Swiss surrealist artist who created mail art and collaborated with other artists.
  4. John Held Jr.: An American artist who was a key figure in the development of mail art.

If you're interested in exploring Artist Mails further, you can:

  1. Search online: Look for online archives, museums, and collections that feature Artist Mails.
  2. Join mail art networks: Participate in online communities and networks dedicated to mail art.
  3. Create your own: Start sending your own Artist Mails to friends, fellow artists, and even strangers!

Remember, Artist Mails are a unique and fascinating way to experience art, and they continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts around the world.