Art and Emotion: Why Artists Are Sensitive and Why That’s a Good Thing
Have you ever wondered if artists get emotional about their own work? If they do, why? And how can they possibly remain so sensitive about what they create? This article delves into the emotional aspect of artistic creation and explores why sensitivity is not a weakness, but a strength for artists.
Understanding the Emotional Connection
Artists, by nature, are deeply invested in their work. This investment often translates into an emotional connection with what they create. It's not about losing control or laughing uncontrollably, but rather an internal dialogue between the artist and the piece, much like a viewer would. Artists use their own reactions to determine if the work is effective in achieving the intended impact. This skill, honed through drawing from life, involves stepping back periodically to view the work as a new, unbiased audience would. It's more of a visceral, self-critical process than a hard, scientific one.
Objective Viewing in Art
Objective viewing is a crucial skill that artists must develop. It involves stepping away from the work to reassess the accuracy and effectiveness of the piece. Every few minutes, the artist must ask themselves, 'Is this coming close to the actual object?' If not, they must identify which visual art fundamental they have violated. Without this skill, the artist is merely guessing, which can lead to days of uncertainty and frustration.
This process of objective viewing is essential for artists to create work that is true to their vision and to the object they are depicting. It requires a balance between personal emotion and objective assessment. The artist must achieve a state where they are both deeply connected to their work and able to see it from a detached, critical perspective. This balance is what enables artists to create compelling and authentic art.
Addressing Sensitivity in Art
Now, to the question of why artists should try to stop being so sensitive. This is a contentious topic. Sensitivity is a core aspect of being an artist, and removing it would strip creators of their ability to connect with their work on a profound emotional level. It's akin to asking a car mechanic to never get oil stuck on their clothing; it's impractical and counterproductive.
Artists thrive on their sensitivity. It's the emotional fuel that drives their creativity and inspires their work. Sensitivity allows artists to bring authenticity and depth to their creations. It is what sets the finest arts apart from the merely technical. Removing sensitivity from the artistic process would be like removing the soul from the body, leaving only a shell without life or spirit.
Embracing Emotion as a Creative Tool
Instead of suppressing sensitivity, artists should embrace it as a creative tool. Emotions provide a rich palette for artists to express their thoughts and feelings. They allow artists to connect with their audience on a deeper level, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. Emotional sensitivity can be both an affliction and a blessing; the key is learning how to channel it into productive and creative channels.
Conclusion
Artists often get emotional about their own work. This emotional connection is not only natural but is a vital part of the creative process. Sensitivity allows artists to create work that resonates with the audience, adding emotional depth and authenticity to their creations. While objective viewing is crucial for technical accuracy, it is the artist's sensitivity that brings the soul and heart into the work.