Here’s a phrase I’ve never heard: “I don’t really listen to music because I don’t know much about it.” And why haven’t I? Probably because it’s common sense to know you don’t need to be a musician or have some deep understanding of the creative process to enjoy it. So, why should the visual arts be any different?
I’ve come to the conclusion art doesn’t have to be so academic. News flash – you don’t have to carry a degree in art history to enjoy and appreciate it. It’s totally fine to just like a piece because you like it. You don’t have to “interpret” art, or liken it to a certain style, time period, or long-gone artist. You don’t have to explain why you’re drawn to it. Trust me – I own a gallery – it’s ok.
When you hear a new song you like or are introduced to a new sound, I’d venture to say you don’t think to yourself, “Eek, I’ll sure feel stupid if someone asks me to analyze the melody or speak in-depth about how it was arranged.” If someone asks me why I love Pearl Jam, I’ll tell ‘em it’s because their music makes me happy. It evokes a certain emotional response in my being and can transport me back to some good times in my life. To me, artwork should be the same. “I love that painting because it brings me joy.” There’s your profound interpretation of a fine art piece.
Now, I’m not trying to dumb anything down or condemn art lovers who enjoy looking for the artist’s message, mood, or intention. Or chide the knowledge-seekers who want to learn more about how a piece came to be. I’m simply inviting those who feel intimated by art to let go of any reservations. At Gallery Forty-Two we pride ourselves in making art accessible, enabling our guests to better understand the work in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment.
There also seems to be a stereotype associated with galleries, art museums, and those who enjoy “fine art” – in atmosphere, attitude, as well as personal characterizations; largely negative from those not steeped in the art world. The word haughty comes to mind. I, for one, would like to break said stereotype. A new associate of mine said recently, “The artsy-fartsy days are over.” That’d be fine by me as a new gallery owner and art lover. Maybe our gallery is a little different? Yes, you’ll find some high-end pieces here and maybe some light jazz to set the mood. But, at times, you’ll also find us blasting Led Zeppelin and talking sports at the bar on the second floor.
Whether you fall in the category of art connoisseur or art novice, we’d welcome you to stop in and check out our mix of art, music, and good times.
About Gallery Forty-Two
Past and present meet to create an immersive and captivating experience in this stunning Indianapolis art gallery. Offering more than three thousand square-feet of gallery and event space, our new renovation honors both the legacy of historical architecture and the fine art traditions of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Gallery Forty-Two is committed to providing the discerning art collector an excellent source of artworks that combine the brilliance of inspiration with the spirit of antiquity.