Good-Enough
Artists strive for perfection. Their effort is to be clean, clear, coherent and communicative within given boundaries. This allows the artwork to be understood and to be of aesthetic value. The aesthetics of perfection in art makes the difference between professionalism with intent to amateurism.
Striving for perfection can very often can appear technical and/or obsessive. That being said, we must accept the “Good-Enough” approach without compromise that can lead or give that amateur feeling.
“Friendship”, of the 7 Blessings series, watercolor and ink on paper, a-5,@Barbara Adler Art 2022
(Private Collection, Printable option only)
What is the “Good-Enough” approach? Based on the early infancy educational theory of British psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott (1896–1971) that the ordinary, devoted mother who provides an adequate or good enough environment for the growth of the infant to express its true self. In other words, the “not-so-perfect–mother” allows for the infant to develop his/her own individuality.
Things happen and grow when there are no strobe lights focusing on them, allowing space for experiment and failure. Experimenting is crucial for any creative or artistic process. The dialogue that evolves from this basic experimenting is the base of all art. The experiment can be technical; types of drawing, types of paint, types of materials or it can be intellectual or spiritual, trying to find the best visual means in line, form and color to express a thought or a feeling.
The artist, as the mother, must allow for imperfections, as the artwork itself becomes of life, open for continuous dialogue. Eventually, the artwork will define meaning, whether it is of the original intent of the artist or how the artwork is grasped by its audience.
“Periodic Sea” – Acrylic on Oval Stretched Canvas, 40/30cm @Barbara Adler Art 2022
Everybody needs art, especially in these crazy times. There is Art for everyone’s state of mind, desires and tastes. Take a break, reflect and delve into some of my art, to my stories.
Flatter me! All the works on this blog are Printable and for sale. They are Barbara Adler originals. I love talking about my art, so feel free to DM to converse and purchase, making it yours.
See more of my art, perhaps find a suitable workshop and read more of my blogs on my website: BAArtworks.com
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