Art, it seems, is a dynamic thing. Some have clear definitions, others might contend they just know it when they see it. The bounds have certainly changed over the years and, no doubt, will continue to change as time presses on.
I've been fortunate to see important art at some of the best museums and institutes in the United States. Thanks to technology, books and education, many of us have at least been exposed to the great art of not only our home country, but of the world. There are certainly some standards and guidelines about what defines great art, but-and perhaps this is elementary-I think there is also a great part of the value of any given piece of art which is defined by its ability to provide enjoyment, to inspire passion, to help someone.
The Lexington Art League's Side By Side program is a great example of this. Working in coordination with Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation, artists are paired with children in rehabilitation for various issues in order to create art works. The interaction is also facilitated by therapists. The artists and children work together to produce art in various media that is displayed in a traveling exhibit upon completion.
After speaking with Kandace Tatum, the communications coordinator for the Lexington Art League, and an artist participant in the Side by Side program, it was clear that this art was not only something to be seen, but its creation was a functional therapeutic tactic. She shared the children had experienced marked improvements during the program.
The Latitude Artist Community is another place to find inspired works of art with a greater social conscience. Latitude, according to its mission, "serves all people with an emphasis on those thought to have a disability by creating a framework which encourages us to recognize our own life's narrative, and to then choose ways in which we may contribute to the well-being of our community." Latitude and its participants are committed to the arts scene in Lexington as well as to maintaining the vitality of downtown through community action.
I hope this issue is one that not only provides some new opportunities to appreciate art and aesthetics, but also one that encourages you to think about it in a new way.