Art advocacy groups are assailing the recently passed healthcare bill that leaves a loophole allowing insurance companies to deny coverage to a segment of the American people that can ill afford to be left uncovered.
According to sources close to Congress, artists who use pencils or paintbrushes will be denied coverage if they develop Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Arthritis, or any other related problem in their hands or arms. In addition any vision problems will also fall into this gap in the healthcare program.
At a recent demonstration on the steps of the US Capitol in Washington, DC artists from around the country came together to protest this glaring oversight. Ironically the signs and banners carried by protesters were left blank. Not wanting to risk injury to their livelihoods, the artists refrained from using Sharpies to make signs. Many wore UV glasses to protect eyes from retinal damage.
Arthur N, Kraft, a painter from California was interviewed at the protest decried, “ This is the wholesale abandonment of culture in America. Of what use are we when we can no longer practice or chosen field!” A chorus of whispers from a small group of opera singers rose in support Art Kraft’s declaration. They too affected by the congressional slight to art and culture.
When questioned about the artists concerns, conservative legislator Hartley Keares flatly stated,” Let them use Photoshop like the rest of us.” He went on to state that if these so-called artist care so little for their appendages they shall reap what they sow.
Foster Kremple, Faux Art News
