RE: What is Art and Who Defines It?
Another stellar, thought-provoking post. I've definitely struggled with certain types of art - mainly, non-form art like abstract and color studies. It's almost as if I had an art prejudice as if I had to understand it or it wasn't art... I've learned since then! Now, I take time to appreciate non-form art through the perspective of what it compels me to think, feel, and experience in the moment.
To answer your questions:
My 'definition' of art has changed as I've matured. At first, art was talent. Then, art was production. Now, art is expression. Truly, anything can be art in my eyes, and if I see it as art, so it is. If another person does not see what I do as art, that is their perspective and it is theirs to own! Maybe this vagueness dilutes the meaning of art or the achievement of acclaimed artists, but since my opinion is so personal and fairly irrelevant to the industry as a whole, I should think it's okay. 😁
Art is the universal language. While we don't always understand each other's intentions, dreams, emotions, and expectations, the clearest way I see those ambiguities can be communicated is through art.
This is a tough question - as I see greatness in technique, in uniqueness/creativity (pushing boundaries or going somewhere few have before), and in affect (or effect?). How does the art affect me or you or an entire group of people? Many do not see Banksy's work as art because is it graffiti, a defamation of public property that Banksy has no right to defame. Yet, their artwork impacted a vast group of people with its critical themes, its brash display, and its sense of mystery. In my eyes, all of those and so much more equate to talent.
Oh, and by the way,
You've been featured in our latest curation: Ladies of Steemit, Volume 7 | Artist Selection
Keep up the great work! 💓
First of all, thank you for the feature you amazing woman you! <3
Secondly--I love these answers and I’m so glad the post got you thinking. I’ll admit I posed the question to myself last night and then stayed up until 3am writing because I was having so much fun thinking about it.
I think, like you, my definition of “art” has changed--or maybe I’ve just unlearned some of the prejudices I attached to art because of how things are messaged or valued in the world (i.e. as a child I would think that real art was what was found at the Met Museum, not necessarily in a community setting). Now, my definition is much broader--and richer! I see art as a conduit for social change, and see the ability of a piece to reach its audience authentically as a critical component of “greatness” (per your point in #3).
I also cannot agree enough with your statement that art is the universal language. Yes. When something creates a common, shared experience or reaction amongst an audience it automatically incites a feeling of kinship and connection. Art is a wonderful bridge to bring people together!
I could literally go on and on. :) But I won’t...just appreciate you and the comment.