I have had wonderful conversations with people ranging from Sunday afternoon painters to artists who exhibit in some of the finest galleries in the world.  We all agree that we understand the value and the meaning of art better through discussion.  Although my artwork has always been personal and self revelatory in nature I am of the mind that growth and a deeper awareness and appreciation can come from sharing thoughts and ideas.  Whether your interests lie in learning new techniques, experimenting with alternative or cross-over mediums, gaining critiques from fellow artists, or discussing personal frustrations I welcome your thoughts to Artistic Touch's Forum.  In an effort to inform, encourage and inspire fellow artists I will post articles, quotes or questions in order to initiate discussions concerning the arts.  If you would like to contribute or comment on any of the topics or statements posed please  respond to Athena@artistictouchgallery.com.  Your comment will be posted after it is approved. 

Creative Blocks--how do they happen; how can we reduce or eliminate the frustration?  Creative blocks have been legendary in the art community since art began.  Some artists speak of blocks that arise from fear of failure, success & criticism.  How do you deal with irrational intrusions and limitations on your artistic functioning?  Some artists claim their "blocked" feelings arise because of the absence of structure or direction.  Having too much freedom to choose a course of action can be just as anxiety provoking for others.  The artist may fear that by making a choice is in effect losing options which might be more valuable than the option chosen.  How do you willingly stay with and work your way through the anxiety and respond to the evolving situation of creating?

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Can art be tested or measured--effectively?  Scientific and educational research indicates that anything which exists can be measured.  It is said that anything which can be seen, felt, tasted, smelled, or heard may be objectively examined and assigned a systematic "value" on a standard scale of measurement.  Therefore, it is not surprising to learn that a number of sincere efforts have been made to devise ways of testing and measuring the quality of art.  Nor is it surprising to people who are aesthetically sensitive to learn that there is no discovery yet of a universally agreed upon measurement.  Do you think art can be measured--effectively?  Why?  Why not?  How could we do it?

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