When it comes to appreciating art, being visually struck by a piece is hardly the entire experience. There’s a lot more that does not meet the eye; and that’s rooted in our understanding of the skill, mastery, and precision that was poured into the creation of the artwork.
Take sports, for example. I happen to be terrible at basketball. I’ve played a few times, only to realize I can’t dribble or shoot even decently. But, because of that, I am far more aware of the true skill it takes to play well and make a three pointer. I appreciate the game of NBA players fall more.
Art is not too different. Once you’ve taken a class or two, or even attempted to recreate a seemingly straightforward drawing by one of the masters, you realize you lack the skill to do so. That, in turn, makes you appreciate their work all the more. You no longer gaze at it and think, “I could have done this.” Because you couldn’t have.
Appreciation comes with understanding, not just of the artist’s working process but of your own inadequacies.
So, the next time you look at art, be it something as flawless as Parmigianino’s drawings or as seemingly easy as Mondrian’s canvases, why not stop for a moment to reflect? Why not consider the actual effort that went into perfecting the draughtsmanship and technical skills that made the execution of these artworks possible? It is easy to say, and think to yourself that you could have produced the same piece of art on your own. But, could you really?
Understanding the skill–and talent–behind artworks will make you look at them in brand new light.
Irrationally yours,
Dan Ariely
