Art Isn't Always Pretty

The more time you spend looking at art, the more you will see. It really is as simple as it sounds. Looking at art is no different than listening to music or reading a book, or even going to a movie - the more you partake in any of these activities, the more you will "pick up". Sometimes, what you "pick up", isn't always pretty. When looking at art, accept the fact your gut feelings can tell you a lot about what you are looking at. If a painting, drawing or sculpture makes you feel angry, frightened or sad, try to figure out why. Generally, when a work of art makes us feel uncomfortable, we don't always work through those feelings. However, it's important to note that in most cases, the artist wanted us to feel that way. Like it or not, confrontation is not an unusual occurrence in art and it is not something to be afraid of. Allow yourself the option to say, "I really don't like this work." It's ok. Just because a painting shows up in every art history book doesn't mean you have to adore it...