There are so many books I have loved but Art Objects by Jeanette Winterson was really special. I happened upon this quote by her this evening and it was exactly what I needed to hear.
It has been years since I read Art Objects and now I feel a strong need to dive in to it once more and remember I am on path and to trust where I am headed. I need to allow my art flow to come back to me however that looks. I am excited to feel the power in her narratives once again. Summer is here and books and summer go hand in hand in my little world. Shady places with a blanket and book are all that are required to escape.
Just after art school I read Art Objects. It is a collection of essays and a really engaging read so don't be turned off by the "essays" label. And you just need to be a student of life, like we all should be, to be captivated by her thoughts...no schmancy enrolments required. The Jeanette Winterson page sums it up best in this Q&A:
As a student, would these essays be useful to me?
Yes. Better than that, they would be interesting. Dry as Dust I don’t do.
What’s the purpose behind them?
I was answering questions for myself, but more, I wanted to communicate the passionate excitement I have for art of all kinds. I really believe in the redemptive, persuasive, healing power of art. We all need it. Most of us don’t get close to it – either because we think art’s not for us, or because the media circus is off-putting. I wanted to cut though the doubts and the objections.
Isn’t it a bit arrogant to tell us what art is?
This book is about personal convictions – nothing arrogant about that, and it’s a tool kit. It offers a way of thinking about books, pictures, music, both of the past and of the present. Anyway, words like arrogant and elitist are used too often alongside art, and they are used to keep you away from what matters. What matters is a direct connection.
This book helps you log on Art Objects – not a load of antiques then?
No, it’s a verb not a noun. Art objects to the lie against life that it is pointless and mean. The message coloured through time is not lack but abundance, Not silence but many voices. Art, all art is the communication cord that cannot be snapped by indifference or disaster. Against the daily death it does not die.
At home, I have been purging my books and having an especially hard time parting with some. I am going to make an effort to add the titles I have been most moved by to my Reading Love Pinterest board so I can have them close without the clutter. As always I would also be thrilled to hear your most beloved authors and books.
happy reading friends,
oxo
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