I think that there are two distinct types of art. The first type is art as skill. Like the works of old masters, this type of art can be seen as brilliant, technical virtuosity, people like to have it on their walls because it depicts a world that they can understand and because they can appreciate the skill involved in manipulating paint. The second type of art is art that is about ideas. The kind of art that is constantly asking questions; art as philosophy, if you will. That type of art is not trying to depict the world, it is trying to explore it. It is one of the highest expressions of the human condition, to look around at the Universe and ask why? So these artists are not trying to depict the world as it is, or show off their technical skills for a pat on the back. In fact, they run the risk of derision, misunderstanding and lifelong poverty, because they consider the process of thinking and exploration the most important thing they can explore with their art.Now, art evolves, as the human brain evolves. The old masters, who painted in what some modern people think is the 'right' way; ie, depicting the world realistically, were in fact doing the same thing as contemporary artists who paint 'blobs.' They were experimenting, exploring and thinking. The difference is that they lived in culturally different times, their patrons where Kings and Priests, the political situation was very different. So, maybe they had to paint conventional subjects, but the very greatest of them did this in brilliant, explorative, challenging ways. Go back and look at the old masters. Learn something. Then either start using your brain, or put down your brush and buy a camera.

Hi,....you ask a very good question which goes to the heart of Art Education. I'm a gallery owner, and have heard you question asked hundreds of times.

I believe there is a battle going on in the mind of the viewer when they look at art. The fight is between intellect & emotion. Depending of how you are trained, by everyone from Mom & family right on through your second grade teacher, spouse or government, you will bring all this baggage with you as you stand before a work of art.

Realism is very satisfying to persons who like to relate to art without fighting to understand, while those "blobs" of paint connect the viewer to an emotional connection.

When a person actively utilizes BOTH connections, they can enjoy many art forms. This is why Jackson Pollack's drip paintings have aroused so much argument through the years. Pollacks work was not haphazardly done. In fact, he destroyed much of his work because it didn't meet his desire to create an overall "harmonious confusion" of color and design. They are better appreciated if you simply let your emotions take over.

Thanks for your question,...it got me thinking this morning!

Roger   www.theframehopandgallery912.com