Mar
21
2010
What is art? (w/ edit)
This question is discussed to death in the classes of art schools. It is asked over and over, each student striving to find the answer for herself (himself).
Dictionary.com has several definitions, however I think the first two apply to us:
- 1.the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.
- 2.the class of objects subject to aesthetic criteria; works of art collectively, as paintings, sculptures, or drawings: a museum of art; an art collection.
However, I still find these to be so limiting. Whose aesthetic principles? What criteria? Of course we would like to say of the artist, but is it more the audience? Then comes to question, which audience, the one in the time of the work or future audiences? Both?
These definitions still seem very vague and I believe that is the problem art students/artists have in defining what they do.
I feel the definition is so much more than what is stated above. Art is a communication between the artist and audience, bridging time and cultures. In my case it is a visual, 2-D representation of my experiences, feelings, and thoughts on what the world is. My artwork is a way for me to process what is around me while explaining what I can not necessarily say with words. It’s a way to talk to people I will never meet, share with others who may never experience, and pull closer those I cherish.
What is your definition of art?
*After I posted this I headed over to see what the great MBK was up to and low and behold…….
