Unit 5: The Artist vs. The Audience

When it comes down to the comprehension of a piece of art, there is usually confusion about if the artist accurately expresses their ideas or if the audience perceived the message accurately. Is the comprehension of artwork dependent upon the creator or the critic? I believe that both parties are responsible for determining the meaning or message of a work of art. When an artist creates an art piece, it is up to them to give the audience visual cues that could be used to interpret the meaning behind the art piece. When an audience views an art piece, it is up to them to dissect and critically analyze every portion of the painting in an attempt to decipher the hidden message. It all comes down to how the artist and the audience view the artwork. The fact that every person has a different perspective when viewing art, complicates the communicative factors between the artist and the audience. Can the artist’s message ever be delivered without being distorted? Can the audience ever interpret what the artist is attempting to say? Should the artist use simplicity in order to ensure that the audience perceives the correct message? Despite how difficult it may be for the artist to communicate with their audience, I believe that the mystery of finding the artist’s message is an ideal way for the audience to analyze and learn the artist’s techniques.