|
Mike,
I must confess that when I was your daughters age and even though I knew I was going to be an artist I may have spent most of my time in books also. It's a three hour train ride from my home to New York city and I have many areas that I look forward to seeing/studying but must confess that I mostly read.
Robert Henri noted the experience that he has when viewing a painting and explains that he feels as though he is meeting the artist. I immediately understood his comment and realize that the trained artist can make a connection to the painting and the artist that the lay person might never understand. It' a wonderful connection and I often want to say out loud "I know/understand what you were doing. Thanks".
My question though is how much Art Education/Appreciation and or hands on training is needed for the average person to share and appreciate the artist effort. Above and beyond the response to my ability to capture the spirit and likeness of my subjects, the painting usually generates discussion regarding composition, technique, colors and the like. In other words, it seems to me that the general public may not be as ignorant as we think.
Most of my artist friends thrive on conversation though not as good at listening.
|