Art is a powerful tool that can be used to express a wide variety of emotions. It can also be a great way to connect with others and find comfort in times of stress and sadness. It can be an exciting way to learn about history, culture, and traditions, and can help you remember those things that are important to you.
It can be difficult to know where to start when looking at art, especially if you are new to it or have a limited understanding of it. But there are some simple things you can do to increase your enjoyment and appreciation of the artworks you see.
1. Look closely at the art and try to get a feel for it, even if you don’t have any background information. This can be done by staring at the work in a quiet place or by looking it over with a friend who is not familiar with it.
2. Pay attention to how the artist used colour, shape, texture and other aspects of the work to create an impact. This could include using a combination of contrasting colours, smudges, brushstrokes and other elements to draw the eye.
3. Study the composition, including how the artist arranged the elements. This can help you understand why the piece is so beautiful or why it looks the way it does.
4. Think about what the artist was trying to achieve, and why they chose that particular style of painting or sculpture. This could be because they were trying to communicate a message, to make something pretty, or to represent something.
5. Take the time to look at the different angles and perspectives of the work. This can be very rewarding and is a fantastic way to really see the artwork in all its glory.
6. Look for hidden things in the artwork that you wouldn’t normally notice at first glance. This can include texture, colour, shapes, patterns, symbols and story.
7. If you have the time, it is a great idea to visit a museum or gallery and see some art. Then, you can take the time to examine each piece carefully and think about what you’ve seen.
8. Look at the work with a fresh perspective and try not to judge it too quickly. This will allow you to see what it means for you and how it fits into your life.
9. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand what you’re looking at. This will allow you to gain more insight into the piece and give you an opportunity to share your views with other people who are unfamiliar with it.
10. Embrace the emotional aspect of art
It is often easy to be critical of art when you aren’t familiar with it. But it is important to realise that this can be a healthy part of the experience, because it helps us learn more about our world and ourselves.