The Art of Ed response- Is Art WIthout Meaning Decoration?

     This reading posed some questions that are rather interesting.  The discussion of the meaning behind art and whether or not it is necessary is something I've never thought about.  When you're in class, it's obvious whose art has more meaning between the pretty landscape and the dark, symbolic, mixed media piece that is super original.  This whole argument can be negotiable to go either way.  Art does have facets that require learning skills and and applying them in new ways.  I think it is important to come up with really creative out of the box ideas, but sometimes working on a piece that almost replicates a photograph whether you're using paints, pastels, or another medium can show your mastery of the materials and ability to imitate images in life.  As for defining meaning, anything can have meaning yet it depends on the mood exerted from the piece.  A gloomy piece with a small bit of color can symbolize despair with hope on the horizon.  Sometimes you have to just go with the first idea that interests and excites you the most so that you will be eager to work on it or even expand on the meaning behind the idea.  Art can also represent where you are in life, and that provides sort of a hidden meaning as well.  I don't think assignments hinder meaning.  Having a completely open topic can make it incredibly hard to come up with an idea that you can picture as a completed project and a success.  While some may argue that that leads to more brainstorming, a better plan, and the fact that failure produces growth,  it is more productive to have a narrowed down topic that still allows plenty of room for creativity. 

Is there meaning?  But it helps practice with lines, shapes, value, and color-fundamental elements of art...but you could come up with meaning like you don't know whats lurking underneath you or expect the unexpected or it may look like smooth sailing but rough waves are coming...