Art As A Form Of Self-Expression

Topic 2: Identity is a central concern of contemporary life. Critically examine and discuss how design or art has been used to explore, discuss and express identity.

The relations between art and life is explored throughout Martin McDonagh’s play, The Pillowman and Muriel Spark’s Loitering With Intent. They explore these relations through discussing the stylistic features of their characters and how these characters are perceived in real life. Both authors explore how the preconceived ideas of what a character should be is dismantled and the line which distinguishes between art and life is becoming less clear. Another way in which these authors explore the link between art and life is through the act of storytelling. This suggests that life is a form of art. Both texts deal with the argument of whether it is life that influences art or art that influences life. Some literary critics such as Henry James

Most artists express themselves through their work: their choices of creative projects, their development of projects, and the individual inner artist as an underlying basis for their work. All artists create with pure devotion to esthetically pleasing an audience, a client, a customer or ultimately aesthetic pleasure for a viewer or listener.

Art has evolved and regenerated itself many times during our human existence. These differences are defined through changes in styles under various theories. During the nineteenth and early twentieth century, a style known as Expressionism became popular. During this movement the artists were trying to use their artwork as a tool of expression toward life. It was mainly dominant in the nonrepresentational arts, such as abstract visual arts and music. It also was probably one of the most difficult movements to understand because the whole point of the piece lay within the artist. Not only was it a movement, it defined the act of art as a whole. From the beginning of time, each work of art, excluding replicas, show a way of expressing

Let us sketch out the scope of this argument against Ion, as mentioned above, Socrates employs the image of the Heraclean stone in his discourse of refutation to mirror the magnitude power of the muses on mankind. This reference is aroused by Ion's inadequacy to talk about the subjects endorsed in Homer, in archilochus hesiod's account. This reads erroneously for if had true knowledge of the subjects in homer's account he would be able to discuss this in the other poets for they are the same after all. This leads to Socrates to conclude that there is something rather phantasmorgorical occurring here, namely a divine interference is taking possession of his mind and thus intends to belabour this activity with reference to the heraclean stone. This image serves a perfect representation for the gods, portraying similarly an attractive force set abound to not only attract iron

While visiting the Capitol Square, I felt like I had stepped back into an ancient

Looking back on my first art response paper I was excited and nervous to be introduced to a new community. Before this semester, I never had the opportunity to be submerged in a community as diverse as Eagle Heights. After my first meeting with my community partner Jeff, I knew that I would be interacting with children from around the nation and world. However, I underestimated how challenged I would be by this factor. Throughout the eight art classes I held and the various volunteering I did throughout the semester, I was faced with overcoming language and cultural barriers. Though challenging at times, I am thankful that I was able to face these obstacles. I believe I was right to be nervous at the beginning of the semester. But, I was also correct in being excited for what the semester had to offer. Though my goals changed as the semester went on, I learned a great amount from my experience.

This portrayal of emotions, of the inferior part of the soul, in Plato’s beliefs, “awakens and nourishes and strengthens the feelings and impairs the reason.” (41) Plato considers this indulgence irrational and useless. The superior and rational person (the ideal statesman) would pride himself on the opposite qualities and in times of sorrow or passion would suppress urges to openly sorrow or indulge in pleasures. Summing up Plato’s philosophy, the imitative artist is a long way from the truth and can write or paint any and all things because he does not know about the subjects he creates; he denies the rational principle of the soul and overly indulges in emotion resulting in the neglect of justice and virtue, (45) and has not found a proper purpose in the ideal state.

Art is a reflection of emotions and ourselves, like looking into a mirror and seeing your reflection,

What question or problem was the author trying to figure out? resolve? prove? or argue?

Not much has been written about the use of expressive arts in existential practice. “Pat Allen, one of the founders of the open studio approach to art therapy… decided to experiment with having people make art alongside each other and be of service to each other during the process, hence the Open Studio Approach” (Story, 2007). This approach is based upon three elements; intention, attention and witness (Story, 2007).

Self-portraits have been used by artists for centuries to explore aspects of the self. They are the subjects they know best and artists have reflected this through their treatment of media, subject matter and techniques. Two artists who explore aspects of their personality and life experiences in their self-portraits are Frida Kahlo and Ben Quilty. Many of their artistic techniques can be derived from the same origins. Whilst there are similarities in self-portraits by any artist usually, you will find differences the norm. After all, this is what makes art and art form.

Art is personal; an expression of inner thoughts and desires, affecting the way I not only see the world but myself. In order for a person to grow they must know who they are, their aspirations, the true nature of their thoughts, and their actuality of their persona; the physicality of art has given me this knowledge. With practicing in the arts I am able to grow as a person and I am able to see that growth within me.  For with the expression of creativity, comes an outlet, an outlet of the unconscious, forming and showing the reality of the mind. This outlet releases internal emotions and helps me to find tranquility within myself. This state of mind is a supplement for my own personal problems.  Also, I am able to create new ideas, ones that help me see the world in a new light. I am able to form a relaxing and mesmerizing state of mind, one that leaves me fascinated with the world around me, along with a deep love for simplicity.  Visual arts have truly given me an insight on my own mind and happiness in my life. This is why I full-heartedly believe and practice in the arts, to find peace of mind, not in the world, but in myself.

Art education is often underestimated by many who believe that school was created to teach only analytical concepts such as mathematics and literature. However, research has shown that art courses are important, even necessary for students in elementary, middle, and high schools. These art classes may include not only visual arts but performing arts such as dance, theatre and choir. Barbara Streisand said, “Art does not exist only to entertain, but also to challenge one to think, to provoke, even to disturb, in a constant search for the truth,” (Quotations). Streisand points out that there are multiple benefits to art whether it be painted by a brush or sung from the heart. Art has the ability to allow people to see situations from

The history of art dates back to ancient times. Artwork can be, and was, found around the world. What makes art interesting is that it can be created in any way, shape or form with any materials. It seems that the artwork can also tell us a lot about the artist. Art seems to be simply, a direct, visual reflection of the artist’s life. Therefore, one can assume that an artist’s life experiences and beliefs directly influence their art. If we look at examples from different periods of art we will be able to see the connection between the artist and the art.