The Thing About Art Is That It’s Subjective

From the Editor The Thing About Art Is That It’s Subjective

Art requires you to do A REALLY HARD THING—TO TRUST YOURSELF—BECAUSE THERE IS NO RIGHT OR wrong. This separates it from design because its goal is not to communicate an exact message or fulfill a specific purpose. If done well, it will evoke a viewer’s emotion. Love, or even hate, are both acceptable feelings and reactions. In fact, the biggest insult to an artist is for the viewer to have no reaction at all.

But not all art is meant to change and evolve our culture. Not all art is meant to end up in museums and many artists don’t even seek that sort of validation. Some art is just simple self expression.

We’ve all heard Picasso’s quote about how we are all born artists and the problem is trying to remain one once we grow up. We have to remind ourselves that creation is one of the biggest self accomplishments. When we create we feel ownership and pride. There is no need to fear ridicule if the goal is to satisfy only ourself, our inner child, our inner artist.

Don’t get lost in the complications of, “Finding your artistic voice.” Just create constantly and do only what you love. Don’t seek approval from anyone but yourself, and then your voice will show through. Remember: There is no right or wrong.

So trust yourself. Shoot more and shoot often. Create a body of work that makes you happy, that makes you proud. Show it to the world or put it away and start again. With art, you are never finished.

Mario Estrada Editorial Director & Photographer