aesthetics

["Bill Urmenyi" <bill@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Dear Bill Marsh
I had similar experiences.

A work of art is a communicating device, so if it requires explanation, it
has failed. However, both artist and viewer need to be using the same
language and if they are not, some explanation would be needed. Quite a lot
of the emperor's clothes going on. In any event making things complicated is
considered to be counterproductive.

Most artists do not like talking about their work but if you are in an art
school and asked to talk about your work, you should be able to do so for
several reasons. One of which is to establish whether you actually
understand your own work and why you are making it. This helps to
crystallise your thoughts to enable you to make better art. Norman, as is
often the case, has got to the heart of the matter with his questioning.
That is a fundamental question that needs to be asked and answered by the
artist. If you are in an art school situation you can reasonably be expected
to answer the question. Outside of the art school, is another matter.

Bill Urmenyi