Let's Talk

Recently I had a conversation about, well, conversation. We discussed how often  when listening to another speak, our mind is already busily thinking of a reply, so eager to respond. How often do we actually really listen, listen deeply with our full focus, to what is being said to us? How often do we take the time to pause and consider our response, to consider the words we choose. Or perhaps there is no real need to reply after all.

Painting is simply a form of communication between the artist and the person viewing the work. The painting is the conversation. First the artist "speaks", creating the artwork. The artist may not even be present when someone stands in front of their painting to "listen". Does the piece capture and hold their attention? Does it touch them, speak to them? Does it cause them to think? The pause is natural as the artist is not present to respond. At that point, the painting stands on its own. In any case, the viewer has the gift of time to stand at leisure, with no pressure to answer anyone. There is the time to focus fully, to really see, to hopefully understand or find meaning in this silent conversation.

Being able to hear someone's comments or reaction to your artwork is so meaningful as it provides that other half of the conversation. I always wonder, "Did they understand what I was trying to say? Did the painting speak clearly for me?  Did they feel moved by some emotional reaction to what they saw?" Hopefully the answer is yes and that's a great conversation.

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