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| A work in progress, click to view larger. |
I came across this quote last week, and I’ve been thinking
about it ever since.
“Art is a way of
finding out what the world is really like,
insofar as it causes
us to view things more objectively
and also more subjectively.”
~ John B. Mitchell
“Hmmm.” I thought at the time, “Really? Isn’t it either one or the other?”
How can art make us more aware of two things that seem so
different, that even appear to be opposites?
My left brain informs
me that objective art helps me see the world more truthfully. For example, objective art is usually
realistic in portrayal, and often illustrates a fact or direct observation. It is a lens with a clarity provided by the
artist’s editing powers; it teaches me things about the physical world I live
in.
My right brain embraces the veiled depths of subjective art,
delights in suggested line and shadow, and loves to add its own storyline to
that of the author. I am often moved by
subjective art without always knowing why.
It doesn’t have to be skillfully done; I just know that the artist made
a successful connection.
Then there is that rare art that seems to transcend both of
these “definitions” and firmly epitomize them both. Think about Albrecht Durer’s painting Great Piece of Turf, and perhaps you’ll know what I mean.
To me, his watercolor study is a unique interplay between careful observation and an
exploration of the mystery of life.
When I create art, I find that both objective and subjective
views are enhanced and expanded, even more so than when being merely a viewer. So, in my roundabout way, I agree with Mr. Mitchell. Now, you may ask, what does that have to do
with the photo at the top of the page? I
am taking some of my observations made during En Plein Air – Arts in the Fakahatchee and translating them into different
mediums, the first being acrylic paint. I
just hope I can create something that echoes a transcendence of both views.
Lovely! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed this especially thoughtful and interesting post. Hope you have success translating your observations into different mediums, and that you continue to share them with us!
ReplyDeleteYou've set yourself quite the challenge! It will be interesting to learn of your insights as you move forward with the project.
ReplyDeleteLovely to see your work in a different medium!
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you, my dear Anonymous.
ReplyDeleteHi Kathy, and thanks for your kind words! I hope for success - even if the work is not "successful" in a piece of art I like, I know I've learned a lot more. I find that I'm also re-exploring my memories in a different context - which is oh-so-interesting...
Laure - yes, a challenge I'm enjoying! I'll make a point to try to write about any insights I stumble across. ;) Sometimes I can't believe how creating art adds so much to my experiences in very multi-dimensional ways. Must be the right brain at work! You and your fellow-travelers have the same process happening...when I see some of the journal pages from during and then after, I gain a bit more just from viewing the same places through different eyes!
ReplyDeleteHello Jeanette, and thank you! Though I must say that you are the master of working through so many different mediums. I still remember you botanical terms in fabric and fiber - very cool and inspiring!
ReplyDelete