My oldest son is living in Vancouver, BC while studying 3D animation and computer modeling. Bret is a talented artist with a degree in Fine Arts and Graphic Design. But like many young artists, Bret has a passion for Fine Art as well as technology.
This got me thinking about the subject of the possible irrelevance of Art in this computer driven day and age. On a number of occasions, I have heard people speak of this…are we as artists a dying breed? Will we as ‘Fine Artists’ go the way of the dinosaur?
Personally, I think NOT!
Artists truly are the movers and shakers of the world. The ages demonstrate that artists have been at the forefront of every epic era. Oscar Wilde’s famous quote, “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life”, illustrates this.
Art has been said to be ‘an expression of both hope and despair’, which embodies all facets of the human condition. The awe inspiring cathedrals of Europe rose from the ashes of plague, cruelty and despair. After which, the forward thinking artists of the Renaissance era emerged in times of religious persecution and political chaos…
I believe, the worse things get - the more indispensable Art becomes. As our American economy sags and democracy weakens amid the smothering of our beloved earth, Art will find fertile ground and bloom.
Art in all its forms, is the universal language. It is the great equalizer and thinking agent. Art reaches across borders and connects the world. Great Art stirs the imagination, causing us to pause, think and reflect. Art allows our minds to escape into childlike wonder. Paintings are windows to the imagination.
Did you know, the act of drawing and creating Art can help us relieve stress? Also, Art improves students in their personal, intellectual, and social development. It can be especially beneficial for children from economically disadvantaged conditions or those who struggle to succeed in school.
Art records the footprint of all peoples, cultures and the world around us:
- From prehistoric times, cave dwellers drew and carved on rock walls to record important history.
- Inspired by biblical times, artists recorded the life and death of Jesus.
- The Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Greek and Roman artists left us invaluable traces of their culture and our human heritage through their art
- Still life paintings often adorn the interior of ancient Egyptian tombs and Roman walls and record information about the vessels and delicacies that the upper class might have enjoyed.
- Lavish tapestries, book-covers in precious metal, ivory, jewels and mosaics help us understand the Dark Ages.
- The Renaissance era was lead by visionary artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Raphael and Michael Angelo.
- John James Audubon (April 26, 1785 – January 27, 1851) painted, catalogued, and described the many birds of North America. (I know he killed too many while he was at it though…)
- The Impressionists were considered the ‘radicals’ of their time and broke the rules of academic painting.
Sure, now we have the modern capabilities to record history with a camera. And yes, I loved the movie Avatar. In fact, it gave me a whole new appreciation for the artists in that industry. However, nothing will replace the feeling of being in the presence of great Art – whether you are at the Louvre Museum or staring at a beloved painting in your living-room. The silent story of the brushstrokes made by a master’s hand or a vessel formed by a primitive artisan will never be obsolete.
Upon graduation, my son is assured a job in the exciting field of 3D animation where he will be making computer games and creating feature films. I am excited for Bret’s bright future and his contribution to this newest expression of Art.
What do you think? I would love to hear your thoughts on this….~Lori
You might like to read:
Finding Great Art Instructions – 7 Tips to Help You
How to Choose the Right Paint Brush for the Art Technique
Tips for Painting Water and Reflections
The Best of 2010: Articles on Art, Marketing & Social Media
I found this essay interesting:
The Relevance of Art in Times of Crisis
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more than words
Nicely said – one of the things about digital arts is that they are not readily accessible without a ‘reader’ and need to be translated in order for humans to interact with them. If your hard copy art can survive the elements, as long as people have eyes and a sense of touch, your creation can speak to people throughout time no matter what the technology of the day is.
Hi Austin. How true that is. Thanks for reminding us of the very important difference between the two art forms. Most people are tactile and fine art is tangible. I really appreciate your great comment. It enriched the post.
Cheers-
Lori
I completely agree that art will endure, no matter what technological innovations we make! Like Austin said we as humans will always be enthralled with something more tactile! That’s waht human nature is! They having talking about end of art for almost a century now but we still thrive! The human race has gone through turmoil through the ages but our ablity to love and create art has stayed the same…..
Ishita
Well said, Ishita. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this post. Art really stirs the emotions. Thanks for sharing yours!
Lori
I find it sad ..when invited to people
houses
and they have low grade prints and faded photos
on there walls
I wish more people would realize how wonder it is
to have least one professional hand painted picture in there
home
Nick, I totally agree with you. A home without art is like a wall without windows!
Thank you for your thoughts-
Lori
This post reminds me of a conversation I had with a guy who, after I told him I was a watercolor painter, informed me that he was an artist too but he had never picked up a paintbrush or pencil. He mostly played around with Photoshop. While I don’t dismiss digital art, there is something to be said about the process of grasping the brush, applying those strokes, sketching those lines and conveying that sensual experience to your audience.
Every time someone writes me and tells me they feel invigorated by looking at the colors in my work, or how one of my pieces lifted their spirits, I’m reminded of the importance of art an am grateful that I am able to contribute something positive and creative in this world.