What Makes Good Art? 7 Secrets Behind Good Art
What makes good art? Here are the 7 secrets behind it.
Have you ever found yourself strolling through an art gallery only to find yourself standing before a piece that captivates you? It’s a moment we’ve all experienced, that inexplicable connection with a work of art transcending time and culture’s boundaries.
But have you ever wondered why? What about certain pieces, like the enigmatic Mona Lisa, elevates them to such revered status in the world of art?
I know I have. As someone who has shared their art online, I’ve wondered why some of my work seems to reach the masses while others fall into obscurity. Ultimately, what makes art good is subjective, but some common elements can help distinguish good art from mediocre or bad art.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the heart of what makes good art – good. We’ll explore the seven secrets that make art truly exceptional and timeless. By the end, you’ll never have to wonder what makes good art again (and maybe the next time you decide to make art, you’ll have a few extra tricks up your sleeve!)
The 7 Secrets Behind Good Art (with Examples)
Rather than simply telling you what makes good art, I have provided examples showcasing each.
Here are the 7 secrets behind what makes good art good:
- Imitation
- Emotion
- Originality
- Message
- Technicality
- Effort
- Mastery of the Elements & Principles
1. Imitation
Imitation in art is a tribute to the past masters, fostering an environment of learning and growth for contemporary artists. It provides a stepping stone for developing one’s own unique style, as artists draw inspiration from the works that have come before them.
People are often drawn to highly realistic textures, light, shadows, human proportions, and perspective, creating an illusion that you can reach and touch them. Think of Edward Degas, a French Impressionist artist who painted ballerinas with such precision and grace that you can almost feel the satin of their tutus and hear the soft melodies of their ballet shoes.
Through imitation, artists gain a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of creating art, sharpening their skills and expanding their repertoire. It’s an excellent way to draw people in and create a sense of familiarity and connection.
2. Emotion
Emotion plays a vital role in determining what makes art good. It evokes a visceral reaction within the viewer, stirring up a wide range of emotions such as joy, sadness, anger, and happiness. By incorporating emotion into their artwork, artists create a deeper connection with their audience, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.
Mark Rothko is famous for this, using bold and vibrant colors to evoke intense emotions in his abstract paintings. His large-scale canvases, filled with pulsating hues, can move viewers and elicit profound emotional responses.
Art has a powerful ability to evoke emotion, tapping into our subconscious and triggering memories and experiences. When art elicits an emotional response, it becomes more relatable and meaningful to the viewer. It quickens our pulse and immerses us in the artist’s perspective.
Emotion in art distinguishes great art from the rest, as it can evoke powerful responses and leave a lasting impact on the viewer.
3. Originality
Originality is another key factor in determining what makes good art. Good art showcases a unique and fresh perspective that differentiates it from others.
When art is original, it allows creativity and innovation to flourish, pushing the boundaries of what is considered traditional or expected. In a saturated market, original art stands out and catches the viewer’s attention. It sparks conversations and challenges the status quo, inviting deeper exploration and interpretation.
The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is an example of original art. It’s the earliest known Italian painting that strongly emphasizes the sitter in a half-length portrait, which was uncommon during that time. Da Vinci’s use of sfumato, a technique that creates soft transitions between colors and tones, adds depth and realism to the painting. The Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile further adds to its originality, captivating viewers for centuries.
However, despite being highly valued in art, innovation isn’t always necessary for art to be considered good. Classic art can still be powerful and impactful without being innovative. The context and intention behind the art can outweigh the need for constant innovation.
4. Message
Good art also goes beyond aesthetics and communicates a message or theme effectively. It has the power to raise awareness about social and political issues, serving as a platform for important conversations.
Through visual imagery and symbolism, art can tell stories and depict specific narratives that resonate with viewers. It has the ability to provoke thought and encourage dialogue, challenging our perspectives and opening our minds to new ideas.
Contemporary artists use their work to make powerful statements and commentary on the world around us. For example, Pablo Picasso’s Guernica, created in 1937, is an artistic condemnation of fascism. Over the years, it has sparked considerable debate and controversy due to its forceful and critical message. Over the years, artists have petitioned to take it down, while a tapestry version was covered up at the United Nations.
Whether it’s through abstract art or the use of vibrant colors, art has the capacity to quicken our pulse and leave a lasting impact. Art experts and critics analyze the message behind the artwork, adding depth to our understanding of the piece.
Exploring the history of art and the context in which art is created helps us gain a greater appreciation for the artist’s intentions and the meaning behind their work.
5. Technicality
Technicality plays a crucial role in determining what makes good art. Demonstrating skill and mastery of the chosen medium is a hallmark of good art.
A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat is an excellent example of this, showcasing Seurat’s meticulous pointillism technique. The painting, completed in 1884, consists of thousands of individual dots meticulously placed side by side to form a larger image. This level of precision and attention to detail demonstrates Seurat’s mastery of his craft, elevating the artwork and making it stand out.
Attention to detail and precision in execution create a sense of professionalism that elevates the artwork. The technical aspects allow the artist’s vision to be fully realized, ensuring the intended message is effectively conveyed.
Mastering the technicality of their craft allows artists to create contemporary art that excites art enthusiasts, critics, and casual observers.
6. Effort
Effort also plays a crucial role in determining the quality of art. Good art often requires high skill and technique, showcasing the artist’s dedication and mastery of their craft. You can’t be lazy and expect to create something truly remarkable. Artists who try to refine their skills and challenge themselves continually produce art that stands out from the rest.
Take Vincent van Gogh, for example. He tirelessly painted and experimented with his techniques despite struggling with mental health issues. His famous painting, The Starry Night, is a prime example of his dedication and effort. The bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors reflect his unique artistic style, capturing the essence of the night sky in a way that resonates with viewers.
When artists invest their time and energy to perfect their craft, the final result shows. The audience can feel and appreciate the amount of effort an artist puts into their work. Through this dedication, art transcends its physical form and reflects the artist’s passion and commitment.
7. Mastery of the Elements & Principles
To create good art, it is essential to master the elements and principles of design. This involves understanding and effectively using the elements of art, such as:
- Line
- Shape
- Color
- Texture
- Space
Then we have the principles of art, which include:
- Balance
- Contrast
- Rhythm
- Emphasis
- Unity
Keith Haring is one of my favorite artists who has mastered the elements and principles of design in his artwork. His bold lines and vibrant colors create a sense of energy and movement, capturing the essence of his subjects. Haring’s ability to balance different elements within his compositions allows the viewer to easily navigate through his artwork, creating a harmonious visual experience.
With these elements and principles mastered, artists can create visually captivating compositions. However, this won’t be enough; artists must use techniques and skills to convey their intended message or emotion. Incorporating personal style and creativity helps make the artwork unique, while attention to detail and precision in execution showcase the artist’s dedication.
Final Thoughts
Art is a form of expression that has the power to evoke emotion, convey a message, and showcase technical mastery. Good art is often a combination of imitation, originality, and effort. It captures the essence of the artist’s emotions and experiences while resonating with the viewer on a deeper level.
Mastery of the elements and principles of art is essential in creating impactful and visually pleasing pieces. Whether it’s through innovative techniques or traditional methods, artists have the ability to create something truly remarkable.
The next time you appreciate a piece of art (or create one), take a moment to consider the secrets behind it and the skill and creativity that went into its creation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is art, and what makes good art?
Art is a creative expression that communicates ideas and emotions. Good art evokes strong emotional responses and can be defined in various ways. Factors like composition, color, technique, and storytelling contribute to art quality. Ultimately, what makes good art is subjective and depends on personal taste.
What are the 7 characteristics of art?
The 7 characteristics of art include:
- Form: The physical appearance and structure of the artwork.
- Line: Creates a sense of movement, direction, and emphasis.
- Shape: The physical form or outline of an object in the artwork.
- Color: Adds visual interest and conveys emotions or moods.
- Texture: Provides a tactile quality and adds depth to the artwork.
- Space: The area or distance between, around, above, below, or within objects in the artwork.
- Value: The lightness or darkness of tones in the artwork.
You’ll want to incorporate the 7 characteristics of art to create a well-rounded and visually captivating piece.
What makes good art and a great artist?
Good art and a great artist are subjective terms that vary based on personal taste and cultural context. Great artists often have a unique style and perspective, while good art can evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and withstand the test of time.
What makes a good art and a bad art?
The quality of art is subjective and varies from person to person. Good art can evoke emotions, convey a message, or be visually appealing. On the other hand, bad art may lack skill or creativity or fail to connect with the viewer. Ultimately, it all boils down to individual taste and personal preference.
What makes art interesting?
Art becomes interesting when it offers a unique perspective, evokes emotions, or tells a compelling story. Additionally, the use of color, texture, and composition can enhance the intrigue of a piece. It’s important to remember that what makes art interesting is subjective and varies from person to person.
