It is a common uncertainty to question when art is finished or resolved. This can easily create self-doubts and assumptions. Some of these assumptions include the ability to learn art, and the idea that “good” art is decided by a viewer. Rather, “good art” is simply art that is meaningful to the creator, and anyone can be the creator.
There are many compelling reasons for an artist to quit. Often, success can be the cancer. For students, “graduation” is often the stopping point. Other roadblocks in the process include fear of the future, and translating imagination into execution successfully. Uncertainty is also a potential hazard to effective work. Many people hold on to cultural standards or control to try and retain a certain element of predictability of how the work will go. In reality, the work is a genuine discussion between the artist and an idea.
The act of fear may often destroy the work. Artist may fear that they do not have proper credentials, or they may fear criticism. Many also fear lack of talent. However, talent is hardly significant at all in the grand scheme. Talented individuals will often try to rely solely on their talent and not develop their skills and this is a much larger issue than “lack of talent.” Perfection is a cliff, as perfect art is no longer human. Artists must also not be trapped by expectations, and rather they must have a genuine discussion with their work.
Response:
I find that these few chapters largely spoke on my journey as an artist up to this point. I was able to empathize with almost every one of the fears and doubts expressed in the text. I think that the point I have reached now is closest to self-actualization I have achieved through my art.
Although I could understand almost all points covered in the text, I think I most empathized with the text when it discussed making art for a viewer. Before I had fully delved into my philosophy of art making, all of my decisions were based on hollow and contrived visual trends. As this habitual practice began to wear on my psyche, I came to the big question: “what is successful art?”
Once I began to investigate this question, I realized a commonality in all art I considered “good:” it expressed themes that could not made for a third party. I began to deprioritize “the viewer.” I feel that now my art is an action of learning and understanding. My work is no longer focused on commodity and culture, but rather what I find important to dwell on. I find that this has not only opened up my art, but my consciousness and sense of purpose.
No comments:
Post a Comment