Art will hook you

     Context is important.

     I went to the West Town Chamber of Commerce in Ukrainian Village on Friday night. Some of Tony Fitzpatrick's artist friends had gathered together to put on a show in his honor, and invited me. The Metra schedule gave me the choice of being a little early or a little late, and I chose early, so I could walk a cigar up Western and then east along Chicago Avenue. 

     I was actually the first person there, so had time to  admire the various artworks, such as Jessica Joslin's dramatic bird above. 

     After I'd looked at the pieces, I went into the hallway, toward the front room, where there was a bar, and a spread of cookies. The choice was wine, but the bartender kindly dug up a bottle of water for me. 

     Passing back through the hall, I noticed this line of little birds —Tony did like his birds —and appreciated their crisp uniformity, so snapped a photo.

    I looked for the placard, for the artist's name, the piece's title. But didn't notice one, and didn't think much of that.

     More people arrived. I talked to people in the front room. Then I decided to go back into the gallery, now filling up with people. 

     Only then did I realize my mistake. For a bright guy, I can be extraordinarily dense. Do you see it coming? I certainly didn't. I had a good laugh at myself — those people who always insist that they're right, even when they're wrong. They never know the pleasure — nearly a joy — of having a good laugh at your own expense. Not art. A coatrack.