It’s a reflective time of year, and reflection, thoughtfully engaged, nearly always leads to gratitude. I’m grateful for a gazillion things right now, but foremost is Earth, this beautiful astronomical body that we call home. -Mary Purpura, Struggling Goddess*
I am fortunate that part of my living is made via being a gardener. This gives me an outlet for creative energy, nuts and bolts environmental action, and uninterrupted moments of reflective time (that’s what weeding is all about!)
Lately I have been thinking about art, art making, and Why We Do It. Art matters on many, many levels. Here is a short list of what that means to me:
1.Art matters because it gives a voice to the artist. Sometimes there are things that can’t be expressed with words. The words elude us, or seem insufficient, or are taboo. Making art allows an artist to speak where otherwise they may be silent.
2. Art matters because someone might be listening. They are able to respond and say yes, or even no, to what the artist is saying. It doesn’t matter; the point is that the artist has not spoken in a void; the art has resonated with another human being and a connection has been made.
3. Art matters because we need beauty. To be deprived of beauty would make our souls starve. Some artists, myself included, feel compelled to just put in words or in ink or paint or wood or metal something beautiful. We enjoy the process and being inspired by the beauty experienced in our natural world. We love it when, again, another person responds in kind.
In short, Art is a communal event. It is never about creating for oneself and only for oneself. It is an act that becomes part of the Greater Good. It does not exist in a moment in time, but rather continues to connect people, ideas, and moments of gratitude for as long as the art exists. It does not have to be in a gallery or a public square to do this—ALL art is ultimately communal.
Mary Purpura, who composed the opening quote, is also an artist, although she probably does call herself that (a subject for another day, “who is an artist?”) She creates spaces and opportunities for others to heal. I cannot think of a more meaningful reason than that as to Why We Do It: for others.
In October 2020, Washington County Open Studios will be presenting their 11th Annual tour, gathering people, sparking conversations, healing and sharing the joy of beauty. And now you know why.
*to read more of Mary’s inspiring writing, visit her at https://www.strugglinggoddess.com/#/blogs/ and subscribe to her blog. You will be glad you did!
You must be logged in to post a comment.