The Role of Emotions In Art

"A work of art that didn't begin in emotion is not art." Paul Cezanne

I get regular emails from Art Quotes. Sometimes the quotes are way way out there, other times something really makes me think deeply. Like this one from the famous artist, Paul Cezanne.

Can any piece of work really be created in an emotional void? Because we are human, we are filled with emotions all the time. Sometimes we overflow with joy...like when we are captured by a stunning sunset that lays across the sky like a comforting blanket. Through the powerful emotion we feel at that moment, we grab our camera and attempt to hold hostage that scene so we can visit it again and again. It's those images that we long for when our emotions are low and cold.

When the weight of the world is heavy on our shoulders and heartache pulsates through every cell of our body, we can create meaningful drawings or paintings - if we take the time to sit down and allow our emotions to flow through us and onto paper or canvas. It's a healthy release. Artistic expression through grief, depression, confusion or simply just feeling blue has the potential for powerful influence. When I feel low, I write poems. Dark poems that express the depth of emotion flowing from the caverns of my soul. Some people may read them with a closed heart and think, "man, this chick is wack." Others, more vulnerable and honest with the state of there condition (to use Pastor Brian's awesome sermon!) could read them and say, "oh yeah...I'm there now" or "I was there two years ago. I know exactly what you mean." A connection has been made.

So, I agree with Paul Cezanne. There is art and there is heart art, the masterpieces that sit in the shadows where only a few eyes can see. They sit there because it's work that was created in the most vulnerable places of our heart and we don't want to offer it to others out of fear of what they may think of us. But when you prayerfully create art that comes from your heart then carefully share it with others, you may be surprised how healing it can be. Yes, you still may have the people who think you are one fry short of a happy meal, but that is the risk we take. But I bet you'd have more people influenced positivly by your work than those who can't see it for it is ~ the Creator's beautiful creation - creating his/her own masterpiece.

Trust God with your emotions. Capture them in the creative way you are drawn to (no pun intended.)

grace & peace on the journey ~ deAnn

(okay, I'm putting myself out there - to determine if you think I'm wack or not...you can read my poems and other short written pieces here: Thoughtful Wonderings. Be gentle... :0)