What do
you think of your gallery exhibition openings? What is the gap between
how you view your art, versus how you explain your view of your art.
It’s difficult because, after all, you chose visual
art, a nonverbal, and now you have to explain it back into words. Some
are glibber than others, but the universe of words fails to explain the
universe of art.
Is the
potential buyer looking for sofa art or soul art. Each is legitimate,
and no one has to apologize. In reality, any piece of art will have to
fulfill its aesthetic meaning as well as a deeper
meaning. The needs of the artist and client must be filled. In the
catholic world of art, explaining this distinction will establish the
aim of THIS painting or sculpture.
Everyone
will be happier if they understand the dynamics of the gallery opening.
It’s an extrovert situation surrounded by walls of insight. In our
hectic world, art should be
a time for insight and reflection.
The
ultimate purpose of a gallery and an opening is for a patron to end up
with a piece of reflection (art) for a living room wall. It’s sofa
congruence for some and soul congruence for others.
Some want art that sooths. Others want psychic stimulation.
At first
encounter, a piece of art is at odds with our world of linear thinking.
Creative writing strives for immediate clarity in order to reach the
reader’s unconscious. Art isn’t in such a hurry.
It can stand initial ambiguity; great art reveals the collective
unconscious to the individual. It’s not logical or linear, therefore
doesn’t fit comfortable thinking.
It’s little wonder that the opening crowd doesn’t fully address the mysterious insights on the wall and goes for the known,
“Let’s have a have a party.”
To
counter all of the above, in the spirit of a “moment of silence,” I
propose an Insight Five.” Introduce it as a party game. In a playful
mood, request each person to quietly consider one piece
of art for five minutes. Look for what is familiar about the art as
well as any new insights gained.
After five minutes, they are free to exchange reflections if inclined, or just go back to the party.
Handled
well, “Insight Five” can add a new dimension to an opening. Far from
being a party pooper, a brief acknowledgement of the core reason, will
be a welcome moment of introspection.
It’s a light way to introduce something very deep.Written by Tom Hubbard
at www.galleryswarm.com
