An Artist’s Rational as to Why One Paints
by George Keltika
My cousin Stevie and I got paint-by-numbers kits when I was six. I still remember the oily linseed smell and a canvas board depicting a horse. My cousin laboured to stay within the lines while I took artistic liberties abandoning the solid patches with blended shapes. My apparent lack of protocol drew protests from Stevie but in the end, my finished piece got more compliments.
Grade three was two of the best years of my life. I was taught by nuns in a Catholic school. My teacher must have strategized that given my poor achievement but advanced art skills, she should cultivate my capacity in art. It seems that the good Sister had the right idea and I’ve since made a life and academic career around the visual arts.
The romantic ideal of a painter earning a lavish living off their art is…a romantic idea. Yet, here we all are, compelled to paint for the sake of painting. For the sake of creating something unique. What compels one to create - to make art? I personally have lots of finished art pieces lining my basement storage space. Unsold paintings galore. Financial gain through the creation of paintings has never worked for me. We all have own motivations and reasons for creating art. From the symphonies echoing through grand concert halls to the strokes of a brush on a blank canvas, art permeates our human existence, offering a kaleidoscope of expressions. The reasons behind artistic creation are as diverse as the artworks themselves.
At its core, art serves as a conduit for human emotion and expression. Through music, visual arts, literature, and other art forms, individuals can communicate their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences to others. For many artists, the act of creation is a means of catharsis, providing solace and healing in times of distress or turmoil. Art organizations like SOYRA are ubiquitous in Canada and serve as not only a means by which artists can show their work but also as a gathering place and social hub for like minded individuals.
Beyond personal expression, our art also serves as a reflection of society and culture. Many of our artists draw from images of the Canadian north, Group of Seven or even their own back yard. We draw inspiration from our surroundings, whether it be the beauty of nature via en plein air or the complexities of human relationships, or the pressing issues of the day. Conversations at our recent Aurora Art show sparked commentary dealing with social, political, and environmental issues. It’s good that our art evokes such dialogue. Can our landscapes provoke environmental change? Social change?
In conclusion, the motivations behind artistic creation are multifaceted and deeply personal. From the desire for self-expression to the pursuit of excellence and the quest for connection, art enriches our lives in countless ways, transcending boundaries and sparking inspiration across generations. Whether as creators or spectators, we are all part of the ever-evolving tapestry of human creativity.
Why do we make art? I’m personally compelled and can’t help myself.
George Keltika
Artist and SOYRA Member
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