The Whole Ball of Wax

Jerry Saltz begins his article by discussing how art is more than just something aesthetically pleasing to look at. While some may view art as just a hobby or an activity to pass the time, Saltz argues that art can be used as tool to convey a message or represent an important issue in society. He claims, "art is an energy source that helps make change possible." We are surrounded by different types of art in our every day life. The architecture of a building, the cover of a magazine, and a painting on a wall are all forms of art that can inspire one's imagination. It can pursued people to have a certain view point and change their mind on what they thought was previously true. Each individual's experience of the same piece of art can differ drastically. Saltz believes that "art is a bridge to a new vision and the vision itself, a medium or matrix through which one sees the world, and that grants that pleasure is an important form of knowledge." One person may simply see a painting of a flower for what it is, paint on a canvas. Someone else may be deeply moved by that same flower painting because of their own personal past experiences.
I agree with this view of art being an ever changing tool in ones life. I've used it as a creative out lit to express myself as well as just a break from my hectic life. Saltz quotes Oscar Wilde, "The moment you think you understand a work of art it's dead for you." I think it's very important to keep an open mind in all aspects of life. Once you stop questioning and wondering about a topic you stop learning and growing. Simply accepting what someone else tells you deprives you of having your own thoughts and experiences.