Is there such a thing as too much exposure for an artist?

Question:

Is there such a thing as too much exposure for an artist?

This question prompted mine: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?...

Quote: "How would you go about getting recognized in the art community?

Blogs? MySpace? YouTube? Street fairs? Galleries? Send postcards?"

It makes me think, is there such a thing as too much exposure for a (visual) artist? And I wonder if self-promotion on the Internet can be so time-consuming, it takes one away from the art?

Thoughts, please.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Although it's the goal of many artists to feel appreciated and make a living from creating, I believe that there is such a thing as too much exposure. It's just my perception of things, but when fine art becomes commercialized and mass-produced, then no matter how good the work is, it can become a kitschy eyesore.

I thought your question brought up some interesting points. I know you're gearing towards how marketing one's art affects the individual artist, but I thought I'd mention how over-exposure affects society. Artists like Van Gogh, Escher, Dali, etc have become cliche and almost pop icons. Many great artists are overlooked and under-represented from media/consumerist iconographic propaganda.

I think how you choose to market or represent yourself as an artist should reflect your values and your goals. Are you looking to make a name for yourself? Do you want your art on coasters and above everyone's fireplace? Do you only like to share your art with your friends and family or a handful of people? Why do you make things? I think an artist's purpose will reveal how much or how little exposure is appropriate.