Art For The Sake Of Art

Art For The Sake Of Art ­ You Don’t Have To Show It

Most art should not be made for the purpose of showing it to anyone. Theoretically, the real purists make art only for the sake of making better art. In that sense, the artist should show only his or her last creation. All the works up to that point should be created for the sake of the final piece. Of course, this theory is extreme, and usually employed only by the most true purists. These artists are many times poorer financially, yet rich spiritually.

On the other end of the spectrum is the artist who makes art for the monetary value it carries. This usually entails mass-producing a particular style, and then creating a marketing scheme to unload the works in volume. These artists can be financially successful, but the purity of their message can get lost in the process.

The concept of making art for the purpose of exhibiting, eliminate many potential artisans. Showing one¹s efforts to others is very intimidating, especially to the beginning artist. This world is full of artistically talented individuals who will never partake in the act of drawing, painting, or sculpting simply because they were too frightened to even try. My biggest question to them is “what are you fearful about?” There are no rules that state that you must show your art to others. In fact, you have all the permission you desire, to throw away every single piece you make for the rest of your life. The only eyes that have to be laid on your art, are your own. With that knowledge, you now can take a few years and get on the road to becoming artistic. Without fear or intimidation, you are now free to draw, paint or sculpt in any manner you wish. You can fail to your heart¹s content as you probe, experiment and explore the process of learning art.

Actually, the act of exhibiting and/or showing your art, especially in the early stages of your development detours the learning and growth process. Becoming proficient at art involves years and years of exploring, drawing, experimenting and creating. I have heard on several occasions that “most of our greatest artists were not considered great until after fifty years of age.” Creating art at a sophisticated level takes a tremendous amount of time and discipline to explore the artistic process and develop personal style.

Some of our greatest learning comes from a mind clear of pressures to succeed. Without these burdens you can freely explore the depths of your true self and spirit. You can learn at a pace that lines up with your own requisites. You can take part in art for the most profound reason of all, to make better art tomorrow than you made yesterday.

Art Sherwyn