What is art all about?

This is one of those questions many people hope is multiple choice. And, I think it's fair to say that as a generic question it probably should be because there can be many answers. The more important question though is, what is art about . . . to you or to me? That's not a question I can answer for you or you for me. Some people will say it's about beauty. Others will say it's about how it makes you feel. Still, others will offer that virtually anything done well is art.

Does nature speak to you?

It's been said that all it takes for something to be art is that it be called art by its creator. Thomas MacKeevely, the late professor of art history at Rice University suggested, "If it's called art, it is art." "In striving to create meaningful, expressive art," suggests photographic artist Tom Dwyer, "the art has to, first, be created intentionally to communicate to whomever its intended consumer is envisioned to be. If it's artful enough it will cause that consumer to pause, to take notice, to consider in some fashion what the art is about. More importantly, what it means to that consumer of art." 

The real question," says Dwyer, "is not ‘What is art?’ but what is the created piece (a mosaic, a

What might a tree on "Artist's Rock"
in the Catskill Mountains communicate to you?

painting, a musical score, a photograph, etc.) "about"?Does it communicate a message, any message, feeling, or emotion? After all,” he adds, “ a bright red, setting sun will likely elicit a different emotional response in lovers than it will for a young soldier on the field of battle. As a single long-stem rose laid gently on a casket carries a vastly different "feel" than the same rose might accompanying a birthday greeting. So to, each created piece of art may communicate a different message, to different people, at different times.”

Can photography be artful?

That begs another. Can a single photograph have meaning for you? Answer that question for yourself during the opening evening for this show, Sept. 25 from 5 to 8 pm. The show will feature "Limited Edition" prints of Dwyer's photography with each piece created to communicate its unique story. Dwyer is anxious to see and hear what his work communicates to you. "Limited Edition," framed as well as unframed prints will be available for purchase. 

The show will run through the month of October, at Gallery 54, 54 E. Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY.

Note: All Covid-19 regulations and precautions will be strictly observed for all show guests and artists.