If you are interested in art but do not know how to appreciate it fully, this is a completely normal situation. In fact, art is layered. It changes every time you look at it, or when your personal situation has changed, or when you have new knowledge about the artwork. Heck, even standing in a different place in the room or sitting in a different theater seat will change your perspective on the work. Whether you’re new to the art world or a professional artist, here are five things to consider when you look at art.
1. Take Your Time
Art is meant to be experienced and explored. Take your time to observe the piece, and don't rush through it.
Taking your time to observe an artwork is important because art is meant to be experienced and explored. Rushing through an artwork or zoning out during a performance may cause you to miss details and nuances that contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the piece. By taking your time, you can fully appreciate the artwork and develop a deeper understanding and connection with it.
2. Observe the details
Artworks are often complex and have details that can be easily missed at first glance. Look closely at the piece and observe its details.
When observing an artwork, look closely at the creation. This can include observing the brushstrokes, color choices, composition, and any text or symbolism that may be present. By paying attention to these details, you can gain a better understanding of the artist's intention and message.
Artworks can contain a range of symbols and motifs that can represent various themes and messages. Common symbols include flowers, animals, religious motifs, and geometric shapes. However, the meaning of a symbol can vary depending on the context and the artist's intention. It is important to consider the artwork as a whole and to research the artist's background and influences to fully understand the meaning behind the symbols present in the work.
3. Understand the context
Understanding the historical, cultural, and social context of the artwork can help you appreciate it better. Also, research the artist, the time period, and the style to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork.
For example, Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel in the early 16th century during the Renaissance period. The Renaissance was a time of great cultural and artistic growth in Europe, marked by a renewed interest in classical art, literature, and philosophy. Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to paint the ceiling of the chapel, which took him four years to complete. The Sistine Chapel ceiling is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Western art, and its creation during the Renaissance period is a testament to the flourishing of artistic and intellectual pursuits during that time.
In contrast, Warhol's soup cans were created in the early 1960s during a time when consumerism was on the rise in the United States. The country was experiencing a post-war economic boom, and mass-produced goods, including canned soup, were becoming increasingly popular. Warhol's soup cans were a reflection of this cultural shift and were meant to challenge the traditional notion of what art could be. By elevating a mundane object to the status of art, Warhol was questioning the value and meaning of contemporary art and the role of the artist in society.
So while both the Sistine Chapel and Warhol’s soup cans are well-known works, we see in two very different styles a reflection of society, history, and politics at those places in those times. Perhaps having this background makes you see these pieces differently.
4. Use your senses
Art is a sensory experience, so use all your senses to appreciate it. Look at the colors, textures, and shapes. Be aware of the sounds in the room and feel the atmosphere.
Listening to the sounds around you can help you to immerse yourself in the artwork and the space around it. The sounds in the room can also influence your emotional response to the artwork. For example, a quiet and peaceful atmosphere may enhance the calming effect of a painting, while a loud and chaotic environment may detract from the focus on the piece. By paying attention to the sounds in the room, you can gain a deeper understanding and connection with the artwork.
Scent and touch can also affect your understanding of art. For example, some artworks may have a certain scent or fragrance that can enhance the sensory experience. Similarly, some art installations may be meant to be touched or interacted with, allowing visitors to experience the artwork in a more tactile way. By using your sense of smell and touch, you can gain a more immersive and multi-dimensional understanding of the artwork. However, it is important to follow any rules or guidelines set by the museum or gallery when it comes to handling or interacting with the artwork.
5. Trust your instincts
Art is subjective, and everyone has their own interpretation and feelings towards it. Trust your instincts and emotions towards the artwork, and don't worry too much about what others may think.
Believing in your first instincts can be valuable when it comes to art because art is subjective and personal. Everyone has their own interpretation and feelings towards a piece of art, and your instincts can help guide you towards what resonates with you. By trusting your emotions towards the artwork, you can develop a more personal and meaningful connection with it. However, it's also important to keep an open mind and consider other perspectives and interpretations of the artwork.
If you don't know what you feel about a piece of art, that's okay too. Sometimes it takes time to develop a connection with a work of art. Try revisiting the piece at a later time or discussing it with others to gain new insights and perspectives. Remember, there's no right or wrong way to feel about art, so trust your instincts and allow yourself to have your own unique experience with each artwork.
Bottom Line
It's important to remember that understanding and appreciating art is a process that evolves over time. Art is layered and complex, and there may be details or nuances that you miss the first time you view a piece. Additionally, your personal situation, knowledge, and experiences can all influence your interpretation and understanding of art. By keeping an open mind and allowing yourself to revisit and reflect on artwork, you can continue to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art. Allow yourself the space to observe, and really, just enjoy the experience.