Arts Alive 10 Process and Purpose

"Arts Alive 10," Trafford Parsons dives deep into his creative process, features a fascinating conversation with Mike Brown, an artist renowned for painting football heroes. Together, they explore the balance between artistic process and the message behind the work.
This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in how artists translate inspiration into creation. The process of making art is both technical and philosophical, requiring a balance between method and message. While technique provides the foundation for creation, the message gives art its purpose. A strong work of art is one where both elements are in harmony, where the artist’s technical skill enhances the meaning they wish to convey. Whether it’s an abstract painting or a detailed portrait, the true power of art lies in its ability to connect with viewers on multiple levels, offering both aesthetic pleasure and intellectual or emotional depth.
The key to creating art that resonates lies in balancing message and method. Technique should enhance the message, allowing it to shine through without overpowering the viewer. Similarly, the message should not overshadow the craft. When both elements work in harmony, the result is a piece of art that is not only visually compelling but also intellectually and emotionally engaging.
The message in art is what gives it depth and significance. Whether it’s a political statement, an emotional experience, or a commentary on human nature, the message is what connects the artist to the viewer on a profound level. A powerful message can inspire, provoke, and evoke strong feelings. It can challenge perceptions or offer comfort. In many cases, the message is the artist’s way of communicating something about the world around them or their internal landscape.
Art without a clear message might still be beautiful, but it risks being forgettable. When artists focus solely on method without considering the meaning behind their work, the result can be visually appealing yet lack emotional resonance. On the other hand, if the message is overly dominant, the work can feel preachy or heavy-handed, losing its aesthetic appeal. This brings us to the delicate balance between message and method.
The artistic process typically begins with an idea or a spark of inspiration. This can come from a wide range of sources: personal experiences, emotions, political or social issues, or even the abstract beauty of shapes, colours, and textures. Artists often spend time reflecting on this initial inspiration, letting it evolve in their minds before taking the first step toward creation.
Once an idea has taken shape, the next phase involves selecting the right medium and technique. This is where method comes into play. Different mediums-whether it's painting, sculpture, digital art, or something else-offer unique possibilities for expression. The artist must decide which tools and techniques best communicate their vision. For example, oil paints may allow for rich, layered textures, while digital media can offer precision and versatility. Some artists prefer spontaneous, intuitive processes, like abstract expressionists who let the brushstrokes lead the way. Others take a more calculated approach, planning every detail before executing the work.
No matter the method, the technical aspect of creating art requires discipline and practice. Artists spend years honing their skills, learning the nuances of their chosen medium, and experimenting with different approaches. Mastery of technique is crucial, but it’s not enough on its own. Technique without meaning can result in work that feels empty or superficial. This is where the message comes in.
The process of making art is as varied as the artists themselves, yet it often revolves around a few key principles: inspiration, technique, and expression. At its core, creating art is a personal journey where ideas are brought to life through a combination of skill and intuition. But beyond technique, the message behind a piece of art-the meaning it communicates-can elevate it from mere decoration to something deeply impactful. Achieving the right balance between message and method is essential for producing work that resonates with viewers.

[@barriejdavies]

Love it! Keep mischief up! :)

[@AuroraNatalia-xd8yr]

Good trafl😂😊❤