The purpose of art

The purpose of art is not to produce a product. The purpose of art is to produce thinking. The secret is not the mechanics or technical skill that create art – but the process of introspection and different levels of contemplation that generate it. Once you learn to embrace this process, your creative potential is limitless.

Art is a human act. Art is Risky. Generous. Courageous. Provocative. You can be perfect, or you can make art. You can keep track of what you will get in return for your effort, or you can make art. You can enjoy the status quo, or you can make art.

I create Art for stress relief and anxiety. It helps because I am occupied doing something rather than have to think about the inner demons that want to control me. Making art – whether it’s painting, writing, composing music, taking photographs, or whatever – is an expansive act. It doesn’t allow us to hide away or shrink.

Making art demands our full attention. It’s like a mindful meditation in that respect. It requires us to turn up and be fully present.

You can’t make art when your mind is on something else – so making art is a wonderful way to remove yourself from the troubles of the world for a while. They will still be there, waiting for you, when you take a break from making art.

Tempura Painting by Anjelikka