Art Appreciation: How Does Art Speak to You?

My husband is an artist so I have a very special appreciation for art. When he takes the time out to sketch, he drifts off into his own little world. His mind is so creative and I could only wish to have even a percentage of his talent. I truly love and appreciate him so much. He inspired me to write this article to inspire people to start thinking about art.

Have you ever taken time out to really appreciate great art? Even though many of us are busy we should still take the time out of our hectic schedules to really appreciate art. Art in any form whether it is a painting, sculpture or drawing can hit a nerve within us if it is the right piece. Every piece of art speaks to someone out there, some people more than others. A painting of a woman breastfeeding her newborn baby boy- celebrates the joy of motherhood. This painting might speak to many mothers because they are reminded of some of the most precious moments in their lives. There is something special about a mother and a child gazing at each other as if they were the only two people who existed. The bond they share is unbreakable. Or perhaps a water color drawing of a robust elk standing on a mountain top overlooking a valley can awaken your love for the great outdoors. If we really stop to look at this drawing we might be able to actually smell the scent of fresh pine in the air.

Our favorite piece of art was created by Bev Dolittle. She captures and describes the intent and beauty of the true spirit of nature and its beautiful creatures. She depicts the true American way of life. One of the best pieces of art is the Shoshone crossing. It is a black and white picture of Shoshone warriors and hunters crossing a high mountain river deep in the American Rockies. She truly represents the spirit of the wild and captures it visually. She illustrates her imagination upon pen and paper canvas and paintings. If one is to capture wilderness beauty in such a graphic way as her, one will understand the love and respect of the great wilderness that we have in our own back yards.

What is your favorite piece of art? I would love to hear your comments about which pieces of art speak to you?