Thursday, May 1, 2008

kelsey garegnani -the practice of the wild#2

on the path, off the trail
In This section Snyder describes the occidental approach to art.  The emphasis in their art is on the skill and practice.  Creativity, something we often associate with art, is not expected but comes abbot very rarely and later on n he study.  It is not taught but an innate skill that presents itself.  Students are taught an apprenticeship and taught to repeat the same style over and over.  When a student breaks out of the mold in a burst of creativity it is a surprise to both student and master.  This idea is very different from the idea of art in the US.  Creativity is an expected quality of art.  Those who do not fit this are considered unoriginal and copiers.  This idea can be easily applied to how our view of nature is tinted by our societal norms.  Instead of appreciating the detail and quality of nature, we are so wrapped up in seeking new and creative things we overlook it.  Or, sometimes we just don't take the time to listen and look long enough to see the detailed quality instead of glancing for a shock or new idea.  It is the art, though, that has more detail and hidden qualities that is on a whole worth more.  The piece that takes time and interest to view and appreciate has more to offer and more depth.  Nature in the same way has more to offer us in its detail and quality yet we overlook it because it does not fulfill or modern instant gratification expectancy.  

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