Abstract Art

Sometimes people look at abstraction or expressionism and don’t really understand it. This is usually followed by commentary such as, “My two year old could that.” Artists then get all huffy and puffy about Art theory and calls of BS on both sides ensue. Here’s the deal people- yes, theory is involved and, yes, a two year old could indeed execute abstract art. In fact, I’d argue that a toddler may have an inherent ability (bordering on genius) to do abstract art. The problem lies in the fact that they are not usually able to properly articulate their thoughts at that age so we can’t necessarily ascertain their skill and thinking involved in a given rendition. Plus, as they get older, education and life experiences will shape and reshape their thought processes and emotions. So parent with the talented toddler- yes, your kid is probably an Art Star in the making but your influence (whether to give them a life devoid of Art, the exact opposite or anything in between) will probably ruin it. Let your kid be a kid. Artists: let’s get over ourselves. Not everyone’s going to enjoy what we make or say. We’re not all making public Art either. I just hope and trust the friends I’ve made have good insight and advice when I ask their opinion. We all can’t make Abstract Art or care for it, but I do think we should try to take some time to appreciate it. Less Art criticism, more Art activism.