The world has seen its fair share of environmental, eco-friendly enthusiasts who openly challenge and question the consumption of materials and natural recourses. Moreover, we are witnessing an astoundingly strong and fast-paced growth of environmental and economic awareness in today’s money and power driven society. For this generation of (both starving and well-off) artists, this awareness is perceived in one of two lights. It is either, A: a clear vision that there is no food in sight due to the decline in those who support the making (but mostly purchasing) of art; who, in turn, are buckling under the pressure of today’s economy. Or B: a definite, delightfully tangible chance to speak to those under the strain of this awareness through their talents and creations.

I would hope those who are serious about art would consider ‘B’ as the more productive means to go about dealing with this new awareness. If nothing else, this constitutes as a necessary step to “fish out” those who lack the passion to succeed in the art world. Tara Donovan has certainly not been caught by the fisherman’s net.

It is indeed interesting that Donovan received a grant to go about creating art work, especially with the economy in its present state. However, that’s not to say the money wasn’t put to good use. I am certain that anyone who views Tara’s work would be undeniably fascinated by the intricacy and simplicity of such sophistication. I am certain this fascination would heighten with the discovery of her chosen medium.

Surely Styrofoam cups and Oil paints aren’t created equal, right? It would make little to no sense that that which is cheaply made for a short-term enjoyment and quickly thrown away, is just as beautiful as that which is used for production of long-term enjoyment, comfortably hanging in a foreign gallery years later. Tara Donovan has successfully managed to find a happy-medium, bringing a certain sophistication and class to the Styrofoam cup.