I’d known about Justin Paton’s award winning book ‘How to Look at a Painting’ since it was first published in 2005 but I’d always resisted the idea of ‘being told’ so had not read it until recently. Instead of being condescending or instructional, I found his writing soothing, a lullaby to my restless painterly mind. He has somehow balmed my thrashing artistic resistance by gently cooing words of encouragement, not only to me but to also any potential viewer of my work. More than anything an artist wants people to look at their work and feel as if somehow they have had something, anything, stirred within them. By looking at their painting you have seen the artist. It’s a grand but quiet gesture of acceptance and, dare I say, at times even an act of love. Paton’s book kindly and generously shows us how even the most exclusive art is inviting you to participate in its existence.

“Are fans of painting elitist? Sure we are, but no more than the sports fans who have a top night every time the All Blacks win. And with art, as with sport, the elite is wide open and self-selected. If you like to look at paintings, you’re in.”
Justin Paton, How To Look At a Painting (pg. 47)

Because, without you, what is the purpose of art? One could argue the catharsis of the artist is of some importance but with the addition of the viewer to the conversation there’s a wonderful closing of the loop. Paradoxically, it’s only the beginning of the life of the painting which will change over time depending on cultural shifts and context. Truly a life of its own! But with one constant- the need for you, the viewer.

Please leave a comment, I’d love to hear your thoughts.