by Cheryl McCardle
I am an artist, but it took many years and words of encouragement for me to be able to say that about myself. My love of art all started when I took a painting class, and discovered that somehow I was able to produce something that resembled art. Believe me, at first the resemblance to art was not easy to see. Like many people, I did not think I knew anything about art.
I thought art was this thing surrounded by an aura of mystery, and only those who were gifted and lived in that other realm could understand its meaning. I bought into what I call the Art Myth. There are probably many artists who would prefer to keep it a secret, but it takes no special talent to appreciate art. The Art Myth is the belief that only those who have this deep understanding of art can truly be art lovers.
What I have discovered since I became a real artist is that art really is in the eye of the beholder. We all know what we like when we see it. For some, art is the beauty in a piece of needlework or a handmade quilt. For someone else it may be a handmade instrument or an intricately carved piece of wood. Art is about finding beauty or feeling an emotion about something you see.
Everyone has events in their memory that produce a strong emotional response. If you grew up on a farm, then you may feel something wonderful when you view a rural landscape. The city dweller may love the look of concrete and city streets. We all come from different backgrounds and like different things.
So, remember the next time you have an opportunity to view art - you are already fully qualified to appreciate it. You have your own experiences and preferences that influence how you see things. It is all right to dislike a piece of art if it does not appeal to you, but here are some clues on how to do it honestly and tactfully:
My eighth grade teacher told me. If you do not know what it is, simply say "Tell me about it," and the artist will be thrilled that you asked.
You do not need to apologize for not understanding art.
There are probably many other people who do not understand it either, including the artist.
Remember what your mother said. "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."
Cheryl McCardle is the director of healing arts at The Creativity Center, Inc, Clayton's newest art space. For more information on producing art of your own, go to www.centerofcreativity.com.
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