Thursday, April 16, 2009

What is Art?

What is art? What is an artist? How do we determine the difference between an artist and a craftsman, or is there a difference? I've always believed that an inspired creation made with skill that causes another person to be moved was art.
Thomas McEvilley, an art historian, writes that "you can't say something's art or not art anymore. That's all finished."
I was reading The Animal Art of Bob Kuhn and he wrote: "I take a very broad view of the term 'art'. I think you can wield a paintbrush for a lifetime without producing an artful thing. On the other hand, you can build a wall or sing a song or decorate a room or take a photograph, any of these things and more, and if you function in a highly personal way which strikes a chord in others and reveals truth in a new way, you will be producing art."
Are the quilts of Ruth Powers or Mardal and Hougs not art? (http://ruthpowersartquilts.com/gallery.php) Are the rugs of Deanne Fitzpatrick or Rae Harrell not art?  (http://www.raeharrell.com/portfolio/hooked-rugs/hooked-rugs.html)
I believe that our art is how we choose to express ourselves and it causes us to be more thoughtful. It reflects what influences us as individuals and how we portray that influence to others.
What do you think?

2 comments:

Judy C said...

I have been connected with the art world through associations and unfortunately what your friend said is true. But it is the other artists who look down on crafters, not the buying public. At least until you get into the 4 and 5 figure sales. After all, there will always be someone who looks down their nose at others. Must we really pay attention. If someone buys your art is is probably because they like it, not because they have a snobby attitude.

Karen said...

That's interesting, Judy. The ones who should be most supportive, other artists, are the most critical.