The exhibition of art
(or sharing of ANY expression)
is purely for the gratification of ego.
Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Believing my self
as creator or curator,
I audaciously believe that
I bring something useful to others.
In this way,
my life seems to have meaning,
which makes my ego feel good.
Not that my ego needs to feel good.
Often my work is rejected or criticized
so that my ego can feel bad.
Of course, those who love me
(or hate me) are all projections of me.
My exhibitionism
gives me a permission slip
to imagine others
who seem to view my work,
and respond.
Such as you.
You, of course,
see this from an entirely
different perspective.
Though I appear to you
as a random post on social media,
It is YOU who manifests this post
as a way to give information to your self.
I exist mainly in your imagination.
I am YOUR art.
Thank you for manifesting me.
Trail Wood
10/31
Art: The Ego’s Canvas
The act of showcasing art, be it visual, auditory, or of any sensory form, can indeed be perceived as a platform for the ego’s expression. For many, the very act of creation stems from a place of self-exploration, a desire to externalize internal dialogues, experiences, and emotions.
The Dual Role of the Creator
In recognizing oneself as both the creator and curator, we venture into the territory of audacity, where we perceive that our expressions bring forth utility or evoke emotions in others. This act provides our existence with a semblance of purpose and a feeling of significance, thereby appeasing the ego.
Ego’s Swings
The ego, much like a pendulum, swings between states of affirmation and states of negation. The applause and appreciation, the critique and rejection – both serve as nourishment, albeit of different kinds. They define, refine, and sometimes even undermine the essence of our being.
Reflections and Projections
The faces we see, the voices we hear, the love and the aversion we feel – are they not but projections of our own psyche? In this mirage of reality, what differentiates the self from the other?
The Interplay of Perspectives
While we perceive the external world as a myriad of sensory stimuli, it’s intriguing to consider the possibility that perhaps everything external is a manifestation of our internal realm. That every interaction, every entity, every piece of art is a reflection of our own consciousness.
The Art of Existence
If art is an extension of the artist, then in this vast cosmic theater, aren’t we all both the artist and the art? Exhibiting, observing, critiquing, and appreciating – all at once.
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
The act of creating and showcasing art can be seen as an expression of the ego. While the ego seeks affirmation through appreciation, it also derives growth from critique. In this interconnected realm, what we perceive externally could very well be a reflection of our internal state, making each one of us both the artist and the art in the grand theater of existence.
Glossarium
- Ego: The self, especially as distinct from the world and other selves.
- Audacity: The willingness to take bold risks.
- Projection: The attribution of one’s own ideas, feelings, or attitudes to other people or to objects.
“Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth.”
– Pablo Picasso
In the gallery of existence, we stand,
Both the brush and canvas in hand.
Ego whispers tales of grandeur and plight,
In this dance of shadows and light.
How does this canvas of thoughts resonate with the vast expanse of our collective consciousness? Where shall we paint our next stroke?
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