The Language of Art
Art is a language that speaks to everyone. Regardless of race, nationality, or language fluency, art speaks to the viewer. The message spoken by a work of art has the power to impact the feelings of the viewers.
I remember a famous quote that said, “People may forget that what you said, but they never forget how you made them feel. Sometimes artwork projects feelings of tranquility and peace. Other works of art are saturated with sadness and despair. Some paintings have a whimsical flavor to them that leaves a smile on the face of the viewer.
Similarly as in the previously mentioned quote, you won’t remember all the content of a piece of artwork. You will however remember how a particular painting or drawing made you feel. Great works of art have the power to cause the viewer to “feel” the message embedded in the work.
Memories of Artwork Throughout the Years
I have several distinct memories of various works of art I’ve seen throughout the years. Some are from very well known artists. I don’t necessarily remember every detail of each piece of art. But, I do remember how I felt when I first saw some of them.
Let me give you few examples. I remember the first time I saw “The Persistence of Memory” by Salvador Dali. You may have seen a picture of this painting before. The painting shows a barren landscape that has clocks that seem to be melting over trees. It’s an iconic work from Dali that has a resounding message of despair. It’s hard to look at that painting without feeling a sense of sadness Dali must have felt.
Another artist whose work I remember is Norman Rockwell. I remember as a kid growing up seeing the various works of Rockwell. His paintings and artwork have a powerful ability to tell a story. His work emotionally places the viewer into the scene being portrayed.
Artwork Speaks a Language Everyone Can Understand
The great truth about art is it’s for everyone. It has the ability to transcend all nationalities and languages The old saying “A picture says a thousand words” holds true when it comes to artwork. A masterpiece from a great artist can speak a message in a picturesque way that no amount of words can.
The message of artwork is left up to the artist. That’s what makes the world of art fascinating. Each artist can relay their own view of life through their work. Someone once said, “We don’t see the world as it is, we see the world as we are.” These words are profound. Every brushstroke on the canvas bares the soul of the artist.
The Message Behind My Art
I’m not sure what emotions or feelings my art may bring to those who view it. I would like to think something I paint would bring out the best of what I have to offer. If my artwork can make one person smile, I will count that as success. The artwork I produce will be part of my legacy.
Artwork speaks a message. Keep listening to great art with your eyes and strive to understand the message behind it.
Thanks for reading!
Mark Lile – Artist of Foothills Acrylics