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Earlier this week, I had an interesting discussion with buzz Art Director Matt Harlan about what it takes to be considered “artsy” by other people. I found it strange that the term has such a negative connotation built into its definition, referring to someone “showy” and “pretentious.” We reasoned how the word fell to the limitations of only describing the tendencies, fashion and overall image of a particular person rather than the talent that the person may or may not possess.

I think we concluded that the word has done disservice to artists by emphasizing the personality over the product. When trying to come up with a cover image for this week’s issue, it was so easy to think of resorting to the classic artist with a paintbrush and beret painting on a canvas. But the great part about art is that it doesn’t have to be created by an artist. Anyone can make art and everyone has made it. You don’t need to have a degree in painting or dress like all the cool, hip individuals to make it on the217’s “Dressed to Impress at LM5” photo gallery (check it out in the music section). Some of the best art is stuff removed from the ego of the creator.

To really see what I’m talking about, we at buzz hope you make it out this week to experience the 7th annual Boneyard Arts Festival right here in our hometown. This year marks the event’s first time spanning four days, invading CU with proud and diverse displays of homegrown art throughout both of our downtown areas as well as on campus and out further in Champaign County. Make sure to open up to the middle of this issue for 40 North | 88 West’s official Boneyard Festival Map and guide. Sandwiching the insert are pages full of buzz’s own perspectives and precoverage of the event as well as a beautiful spread of LM5 coverage for those who missed the event.

But in any case, if there’s any week to be artsy, maybe it’s this one. Get out, wander around town, and take part in CU’s finest art display of the year.