Art these days comes in many varieties. Personally I find all of them fascinating and greatly enjoy other peoples art. Even when you personally do not like the art you are viewing, that does not needlessly mean that you have no appreciation for the work that was involved.
As I am a contemporary artist, I only know too well how my emotions guide me on my various paintings. If perhaps, I had a hard day, it normally shows in my art. It can range from dramatic to tranquility.
Art is a very personal thing, what appeals to one person, others hate – the appeal is in the eye of the beholder. These days there so many things classified as art which makes it more satisfying. As an example take spray painting, some people do this but also use stencils. Myself I often really admire some of the spray gun graffiti scene. Very clever youngsters do some amazing creations. Although many people would view this as vandalism.
Another great example are the various artist plying their skills in the Montmatre district of Paris. To everyones amazement the pavement artist sketch out their paintings on the floor or the art students who set up their easels in the street trying to make a little extra money by drawing caricatures. No doubt then that we are talking about talent here.
More unusual perhaps are sand sculptures which feature in the Canary Islands and I am sure other places. They range from biblical scenes to dragons with real fire breathing out of there nostrils. Mosaics too are very interesting and colourful as these designs can be used on plant pots, walls, gardens etc. and in oh so many ways.
Children are encouraged to create art on a great many occasions. Simply take posters for example. Kids enjoy the challenge to make impressive posters ranging from subjects such as recycling to road safety. And if you are really prepared to let your mind wander a little – What could a really talented individual do with driftwood collected from a beach?
And here is a theme which you might even have on your desk at home. Paperweights, which can range from glass or simple pebbles which were collected, painted and then varnished. Not only is the paperweight very individual, but gathering the pebbles, feeling their textures in your hand, can also provide great fun.
Designing and making your own cards not only brings pleasure to many, but also brings individuality to the recipient. Papermache is another form of art I have never tried, but I really like the results that people manage to achieve. Decoupage in this day and age seems to be very popular, along with scrapbooking, felting, patch working and needlepoint.
I could go on to mention a great more forms of art, but surely there has to be something for everyone? And with the wonderful variety comes a great many workshops that are being run by local crafts stores or schools. The great joy art can bring to people can not be measured, be it by creating it or seeing it. And it also lets you make a whole bunch of new friends along the way. So what are you waiting for? Go on and get involved!…