Art is the Why
Tell me if I’m wrong, but it seems to me like the creative community is drastically undervalued for what they provide.
While science and hard skills are how we live, art gives us the why.
To Create is Human
As a creative, I have a drive to create. It is important to, and perhaps even necessary for my well-being as a person.
So much of the time, we are just going about our days doing what we are supposed to do. But what do you do when you are confronted with a blank canvas? An empty page? A lump of clay? A spool of thread?
It dares us to take up the challenge to make something new out of the resources that we have that wasn’t there before.
Once you have finished the creative work, do you not feel more alive than before? Perhaps more at peace? More satisfied with yourself? I know I do.
Exploring the Inner World
In a world that has lost its direction and meaning, I find that art helps me retrace my steps. Through writing, poetry and story, I explore the inner worlds which are largely inaccessible in everyday life.
Art helps us tap into the deep unasked and unanswered questions in life. It gives us a way to explore possibilities and helps us find answers and come to terms with the difficulties we grapple with.
Art As A Means of Self Discovery
Through art, I discover what I value. I can think through what choices I would make if I was that character in that particular situation. I can consider how I am similar to or different than a character. I can find heroes to emulate or villains who serve as a warning.
Or I can reflect on why I chose that ceramic mug over the glass vase. Do I choose the classic film that evokes a sense of nostalgia or do I watch the latest CGI movie? Comedy, romance, horror or drama? Do I like the architecturally stunning photography of a cityscape or the comfort of a soft hand-woven rug? How much am I willing to spend on something handmade instead of mass produced?
Finding Meaning in Life Through Artistic Mediums
Art, both the making and the appreciating, is a means to joy and expression. Arts heals as you process through what has happened to you and how you will choose to respond in the future. Art captures the diversity and messiness of life. Through art, you make meaning of life and find beauty in the brokenness.
Between the Artist and You
Creation is an act of courage, of self-revelation. That is why I feel as though showing someone my stories is letting them see a part of me that is precious and pure.
There is an intimacy between artist and viewer that transcends language. There is an understanding being created as meaning is made in the mind of the viewer, even if the artist never receives tangible evidence of this.
Ask yourself: what do I believe is the relationship between artist, artwork and viewer?
Dear Readers
So I implore you, reader, do not undervalue art. Especially with the advent of generative AI making images within seconds without cost. Do not allow this mindset of cheapening art.
Even if you are not someone who will spend gobs of money on a commissioned piece, I ask you to consider supporting even one artist — especially one you know in your local community — in some way, whether small or grand, you deem acceptable.
To the Lovely Artists
Do not forget that there are those who love and support you for what you do, and more importantly, for who you are. A creative. An artistic soul.
Remember that someone out there in the cold, lonely world cares about what you’ve made and sees it as something precious and beautiful.
Remember that although you have feelings of inadequacy, jealousy even, there is something wonderful and brave in the act of creating, of making and re-making as you practice each day to improve your craft.
Because if you do not give up, you will reap the reward of persistence. Just look back and see how far you’ve already come.
Thank you for reading.
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