Navé’s working definition of art is that it creating an artifact.
The dictionary says that an artifact is “an object made by a human being, typically an item of cultural or historical interest.”
In our conversations on the subject,
Navé and I have come to the conclusion that art as artifact also carries with it the attributes of reflection, meaning and the power to transform.
It does seem that for art to be art it must impact the person making it, the individual viewing it as well as hold meaning for the larger culture.
1. Art is a reflection, a mirror if you will, of the culture from which it emerges. A reflection as seen and filtered by the artist and the viewer alike.
2. Art is infused with meaning for the artist creating it, for the individual viewing it, and for the culture as a whole.
3. Art has the power to transform the artist, the viewer and the larger community.
Although this definition undoubtedly describes great masterpieces, it does seem a heavy burden for any artist, writer or performer especially when they’re just starting out.
Surely we all aspire to be great at what we do whether we’re painters, writers, performers, scientists or entrepreneurs, but that aspiration to be great also creates profound blocks in people who might otherwise would be quite prolific.
In the Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron writes about the artist needing to focus on quantity, the actual act of showing up to create, while letting go of the idea of quality. Steven Pressfield doesn’t even talk about quality. He talks about showing up every single day without fail and writing.
Is it possible that the only way to create great art is to let go of the idea of being great? That greatness can only emerge from the act of showing up?
P.S. Questions worth contemplating…
How do we live with the paradox of needing to let go of greatness in order to create great art?
What does this do to our definition of art?
Is it really the final product that matters? Or is it the creative process?
When we only focus on the process what happens to the viewer?
If it’s really about showing up, how can you show up more powerfully on a day to day basis?
Please feel free to share below!
Photo Credit: Robert Linder
