First of all, I apologize for not having the image not being a good representation of what I am typing about. I am currently out of town and most of my images are on HD’s at home.

The other day I had talked about some things that I “get” in reference to how we photographers should study other art forms to improve our photography. For example, a knowledge of design would immensely help our images. I tried to relate how athletes cross-train to improve their game and how artists can do the same. I try to expose myself to other forms of art to get inspiration and a better understand how to express my own voice.

HOWEVER… there are some art forms or genre’s that I just “don’t get”. I like to think that I have an  open mind to different things but some things just do not tickle my fancy. Perhaps, I am not as sophisticated an art consumer as I wished to be.  Anyways, here are a few things that I “don’t get”.

• Opera

First of all, I guess it would help that I spoke Italian or whatever language Opera singer’s sing in. That would definitely help me. I understand Opera’s move people emotionally with a story of tragedy. I “get that” but not in the way the message is sent. I would rather see a movie that tells the same story than a soprano belting out super high pitched notes in which I don’t understand. Don’t get me wrong, I totally appreciate the singer’s ability but there is a point where sometimes it just hurts my ears. I find baritone much easier on my ear drums.

• Abstract Expressionism

I don’t get this at all. Jackson Pollack literally throws paint on a canvas. The result looks like a paint mess to me. I just don’t see anything for my brain to connect with. To me, it’s just a mess of paint -plain and simple. I have seen better pictures painted my elephants in Thailand. Perhaps, if Jackson had painted a little more “literal”, I may get it. However, he didn’t so I don’t get it. Unless, it’s just decoration. Maybe the colours go well with the couch? Regardless, I don’t “get” what Jackson was expressing.

• Modern Dance

I think ballet  could be included in this “performance art”.  I am very amazed by the dancer’s athletic abilities and their body control but… I don’t get what they are trying to say. Maybe they are not trying to say anything? Maybe they are showcasing their body strength, flexibility, and control. Maybe, I need a more literal interpretation. I don’t know. What I do know is that I appreciate the creativity of the modern dancers. Modern dance was developed by breaking traditional dance rules. That part is what I have a huge appreciation for. As for viewing… it doesn’t usually keep me engaged.

Conclusion

By all means, I do not intend to dis-respect the artist and fans of these art forms. It’s just that sometimes, I just don’t get it. What I am trying to say is that just because I “don’t get” a form of expression doesn’t mean that I don’t appreciate the skill, talent, or creativity that was put into the art form. Maybe I need to be more educated. Maybe I am just not culturally sophisticated enough to “get” some of these things and I need to go to finishing school.

Maybe, it’s just a matter of taste. Many people love eating salmon but I only like it as sushi. How did I know that I don’t like cooked salmon? I’ve tried it many times. That’s how I figure out what I like… and what I don’t like.

Anyways, I’ll be seeing some of you at ART in Port Townsend. I am sure we will be discussing many things such as this.