Art is similar to the story of Alice in Wonderland. It can lead you down a plethora of rabbit holes. When I go to an art museum, I find myself getting lost in the artwork. While others may just take pictures, I stop and analyze, forming a mental, emotional, or physical connection to the artist’s piece.
Art challenges me to see others’ perspectives and really think creatively about a person’s artwork. It forces me to have an open mind because art is about interpretation. No two artists are alike. I am able to understand the meaning of the piece, while further adding my own thoughts and opinions. One piece of artwork that has had a strong impact on me is Titus Kaphar’s painting, “Another Fight for Remembrance.” This piece made me consider the silencing of the black community by society. Kaphar made me feel the lack of justice and closure for many black families who lost their loved ones.
In addition to making me think, art also provokes a variety of emotions in me. I am introverted and have difficulty conveying my feelings openly. Art allows me to reveal my feelings by using shapes, lines, and colors instead of words. Being able to tell a story with a pencil or paintbrush helps me connect with my inner self. When an artist is able to tap into the viewer’s emotions, a connection is made. A sense of understanding and relatability develops between the artist and the audience. Once I know the context of a piece of artwork, I will spend countless hours relating said story to my own life. Whenever I am unable to share my emotions openly, I let my sketchbook and pencil do the talking for me.
Furthermore, creating art is very therapeutic not only mentally but also physically. Using a blending stump to smudge the graphite of the pencil is an activity I can do for hours. I crave the way two colors seamlessly blend together or the smooth texture of the paper. I delight in the sound of the paint markers as I shake them. Every art medium has its own composition, but I can use them together to make breathtaking works of art. I love to practice layering different mediums such as markers, colored pencils, and pens. Each time I create art, I lose track of time as my drawing goes from an idea, to a sketch, and finally to a finished piece.
As a result, my appetite for art is insatiable. Fortunately, I am a member of Art 180, a community-based art organization. Being in the presence of local leaders in the art world allows me to learn new techniques to apply to my art. Taking inspiration from other young artists and building connections, I am learning how to turn art into a business and sell my work in an exhibition. I also have teachers who encourage me to go further and learn more about art. I will one my craft by involving myself with art communities, building upon my skills, and having a good work ethic.