Joanna James
Have you ever wondered what "art" really is? If you have, let's just say that there is nothing you can't imagine that isn't art! For centuries, art has taken many forms from painting on canvas to sculpting out of clay and plaster of Paris. Today art is not just in physical form but has also advanced to the digital environment in the 21st century. Here's why art is so important to human spirituality.
When it comes to expressing oneself, not everyone can get their deep feelings and emotions across in words. But when it comes to art, this is where your freedom lies. Be it a detailed painting of buildings or scenery or even an abstract splash of various colours on a canvas, it all means something to the artist. From the picture you paint to the colours you use; you are sure to convey your inner thoughts and feelings to a viewer who truly understands art.
When it comes to psychology, art is used as a tool for therapy. No one can stop you from expressing yourself with art, therefore, this is an important gateway to mental release. Plainly said, art is freedom!
Taking things from the viewer's perspective, let's imagine that you've visited Sri Lankan Art Gallery and are admiring masterpieces by Sri Lankan artists. there are bound to be several thoughts that cross your mind. What inspired the artist? What meaning does this expression on the portrait hold? What do all these bold-coloured abstract works of art signify? Such thoughts are sure to cross your mind. You may look closer at the piece and try harder to fathom the meaning of those strokes of paint on a canvas of the photographs in black and white. Art helps us see another person's point of view. It's about seeing the world through the eyes of the artists themselves.
For those who cannot afford the luxury of travelling the world, art could take you right where you want to be in an instant without you having to book a ticket or pack your bags. Taking 21st-century art into consideration, it is not just available to those who appreciate it in an art gallery, but we are constantly looking at art through our smartphones on social media. Remember that artistic snap posted by your favourite travel blogger? You saw the mist on the mountains, imagined the breezy rush of an ocean, felt the chill of the snow, and even stared into the eyes of a wild beast! You've seen it all just with art!
Pick up a pencil and paper, look at the object in front of you and begin sketching. A few strokes of lead on the paper and you feel like it isn't working out. You erase and try again...why? Simply because you are determined to conquer the 2D image of the object and you are guaranteed to do so before long. Doesn't finally getting the image just the way you wanted it, make you feel completely and utterly satisfied?
Whatever you sketch, paint, or even capture on camera can last longer than the lifespan of a human being. Before cameras came along, artists like Leonardo da Vinci were able to capture the very minute details of the human face in works of art like the Monalisa painting which is in perfect condition even to date! How amazing is that?
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
