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Art: The Emotional Impact it Can Have on Us

Mallory Cowden

Often, art can speak louder than words when one wants to portray their emotions. Art has the ability to bring out our emotions, transport us to worlds in our dreams, and make us feel deeply connected to a moment, place, or a stranger’s experience. Visual expressions can be strongest at galleries and museums as one is consuming so many pieces that show a spectrum of emotions: from joy and nostalgia to sorrow and contemplation.



sculpture of two 3D printed hearts with string attaching them together.

Some may view art purely as a pretty painting or sculpture, but at its core, art is a form of communication for artists. All artists work differently when creating a work of art. Some artists have a specific feeling in mind while others let the process of creating drive the final creation. Art is so subjective as everyone can view the same artwork differently due to personal experiences and outlooks.


For example, an abstract painting that is full of bright colors could evoke joy for one visitor, while another might view the chaotic bright brushstrokes as a reflection of anxiety. Similarly, a melancholy portrait of a figure might bring a feeling of sadness or could spark a sense of curiosity about the subject’s life.



Gallery Setting and how one Connects with the Art


Stepping into a new gallery exhibition can be exciting for any art enthusiast. However, one brings their own expectations, experiences, and feelings which makes one’s visit unique to them. One may be drawn to the works that they can relate to on an emotional level as they can find solace. Others may get uncomfortable if art challenges them to confront new ideas or pushes their viewpoint.


Paintings and sculptures can bring out so many emotions, however interactive and immersive installations can further enhance one’s emotional engagement. For example, a room filled with shifting lights that are being reflected off mirrors creates a sense of chaos that could make the viewer uneasy. Meanwhile, an exhibition that invites participation fosters connection and empathy.


Although artists might want their work(s) to evoke certain emotions, it is never a guarantee it will come across that way-each viewer’s response remains deeply personal. This is what makes art so special: it meets us where we are in life, reflecting our emotions to us in unexpected ways.


Next time when you visit a gallery or museum, take a moment to truly feel your emotions and not just observe the art. How do you feel when looking at certain works? Why does it move you? Again, art is a mirror to our personal inner world, and the emotions it evokes can be just as valuable as the artwork itself.

 
 

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At Sims Contemporary we want to nurture and help emerging artists grow. We will have a new online exhibition quarterly that you will not want to miss! It is also a great opportunity as once a year we will select a few artists from the online exhibitions to be shown in our physical gallery in Chelsea, NY.
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