Art and values

I think art is about values. It's kind of bizarre how sounds and images can make spiritual and ethical statements, but, somehow, they do. If art fails to do this, it comes off as nothing more than sounds and images.

I guess I'm in-line with 19th century Romanticism in viewing art as a spiritual calling. I think anyone can be an artist potentially, but art involves a lot of soul searching that most people are too impatient for. It isn't lucrative or glamorous. Often--but not necessarily--it involves espousing unpopular values.

It is the artist's calling, I think, to create art that offers an alternative world view based on better values and higher ideals than those of the surrounding society. At the same time, it's important that this not be done in the spirit of elitism, but in the spirit of making the world a better, happier place.

I think that's why I feel so at odds with my religion. It doesn't encourage me to ask questions or construct my own values system. It can be punishing, making one feel like they're getting off track and waisting time when they think independently. Part of this comes from the fear of damnation. The other part of it comes from the pragmatic, pioneer spirit of the Church. The Church was built by no-nonsense, hard-boiled American poineers. Emotions and art...that's just for softies.