Beginnings always start with definitions so as to supply a baseline for investigation. It seems a logical, and objective, first step in any inquiry. And here is where it gets interesting – art is not easily defined in a few words or paragraphs. There are literally volumes of books and notable libraries that seek to give substance to this three-letter word. Dictionaries, nevertheless, provide an excellent overview that can be used as a guide for further research.
Dictionary.reference.com defines art as ” the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.” Britannica Online defines art as “A visual object or experience consciously created through an expression of skill or imagination. The term art encompasses diverse media such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, decorative arts, photography, and installation.“
These were the primary definitions. But there were concepts that sparked my curiosity: advertising art, industrial art, performing arts, art of philosophy, literature, music and theatre. And the most all-encompassing definition associated art to skill in conducting any human activity such as, mastering the art of conversation or baking the perfect cake.
The bottom line – there are infinite possibilities for ongoing dialogue. It’s a good place to set off on the journey.
Blue Bench – Grand Cayman
ChasingART 
The Blue Bench – the title reminds me of Rodrigue’s ‘Blue Dog’ series. (Louisiana)
Guy Harvey! What a great artist, and your post triggers a memory of his series of paintings that illustrate Hemingway’s ‘The Old Man and the Sea.’
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Thank you so much for introducing me to these artists. I went over to their websites and found the Louisiana “Blue Dog”. I also found the “Blue Dog” book on Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/683149.Blue_Dog. I appreciate Guy Harvey’s commitment to marine wildlife artist and conservationism. What I especially enjoy about being involved in the “blogosphere” is the level of knowledge exchange. We don’t have enough time to explore all that can be known. But with a little help from friends, we learn at what seems to be an exponential speed. Many thanks.
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si; it’s always great to get nudges from peoplewho basically know your interests. or would be interested… rodrigue was gifted, and his blue dog will forever bring smiles – even by just thinking about that whimsical creature!
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Wow, that blue is incredible. Such a coincidence to be catching up on this post today – you will see what I mean when you see the art image I have posted! How I love to be exploring all those infinite possibilities with you. Hugs! xxx
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Oh, Liz – this was my first post that I wrote on ChasingART back in 2012. When I was looking over previous posts, I somehow turned this one into a “draft” and then had to “publish” it, which allowed it to come up in the reader. Perhaps there is serendipity in everything we do. For as I reread my thoughts, I was reminded of my purpose over the years – to recognize, understand and appreciate all arts forms. In so doing, I add to my personal search for creativity. I am now going over to your art image!! Thank you for continuing this project.
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Serendipity indeed! Xxx
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