Defining Art

I've always wanted to be able to call myself an artist. To be able to paint or sculpt and show off my creations to the world. But, what exactly is art? Today's rappers are called "artists" and I don't see them decorating any Cathedral ceilings.

I consider myself to be a fairly creative person. I write. I act. But that's not really considered artistic by anyone outside of the artsy world. Art has been defined, though I'm not sure by who, as something concrete. Something physical, that can be touched as well as seen, whether that be a sculpture or a photograph.

But why does there have to be a limitation on art? Isn't it just a creation borne of someone's thoughts, their visions? I write. I create characters and come up with scenarios to put them in to make up a story that, hopefully, is at least entertaining. Why is that not art? It's at least somewhat artistic.

It's not immediate; I think that's the problem. A book takes too long to absorb. But, with a sculpture or a picture, it's right there for you to take in on the spot. In today's culture, that's what everyone wants. Nothing seems to be worth the time, unless there's not much time involved. It's really sad that society has moved into such a fast-paced environment that stopping to enjoy something isn't an option.

So, to wrap up the rambling that this post has become, I think the idea of "art" needs to be reestablished as something to enjoy. Not something to give our lives meaning. Sure, the paintings of Van Gogh and Michaelangelo had something to say about God or the human condition, but people took the time to appreciate them.

So, regardless of your definition of art, take the time to fully enjoy it.