This past weekend, I had the joy of visiting the New Britain Museum of American Art with my daughter, Lily. We met up with a small group of teaching artists to explore the 30 Americans exhibit, and it was an incredible experience. What I loved most was sharing it with Lily, and the conversations we had that stemmed from the art - history, race, equality, representation, and of course, decisions artists make and why they choose different subjects, stories and visuals.
We saw a quote on our way out that said:
“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable." (Cesar A. Cruz)
We had a chat about that on the way home, and how art has the power to shift and expand our perspectives. It's an opportunity to experience different worlds, ideas, and experiences through the vision of the artist.
I highly recommend visiting and seeing the exhibit in person, if you're local. It is on display at NBMAA through October 30th, 2022. CT residents 18 and under plus one accompanying adult can get in free through September 5, thanks to the Connecticut Summer at the Museum Initiative 2022. Here's a link to see a list of participating museums!
Going to museums used to intimidate the heck out of me. As an art and theater student in college, I felt like an imposter most of the time, thinking there was a certain way to look at art and talk about art - and I didn't speak the language. I just knew I loved art!
You don't need an extensive vocabulary or degree in art history to wander and enjoy a museum or gallery.
Stop and gaze. See what you connect with and take some time to think about why. Take notes of titles and artists you want to remember, or things that you notice.
Does it disturb you? Does it comfort you?
I'd love to hear about a piece of art that you've seen in person that had an impact on you. Hit reply and tell me about it!
Always,
Shannon Sorensen
Shannon is a Connecticut-based contemporary fine art painter, sharing her art, wisdom and day to day experience in hopes that you feel inspired and empowered to explore your creativity and do more of what you enjoy.
