Art and Invention

Art is about invention.

Okay, it’s not entirely about invention. Art is also about entertainment and beauty and controversy and yes, even sex. But invention is definitely a major component.

I keep hearing self-described “regular people” claim that art is not relevant. But who couldn’t use a little inventiveness in their lives? We all need innovative solutions to everyday challenges. (Maybe your life is perfect, but mine isn’t. I need all the help I can get.)

Admittedly, invention isn’t the exclusive domain of artists. I know people who invent every day. Single parents come to mind. But even these creative thinkers could use art’s lessons to become better problem-solvers.

Here’s an advertising pitch for art:

Art gives you a sense of satisfaction just for trying. Sometimes you get it right and sometimes you don’t. But in the meantime, you get to live a fuller, more satisfying life. You get to be the creator in some deep, fulfilling way, by solving a problem with your own personal solution.

As humans and as artists, we have to make mistakes, take risks, produce a surplus to get what we need. As any scientist will tell you, there’s no way to tell which research will be fruitful without doing the work. My wish is that we could all have a bit more of that space where ideas and inventions flourish.

Here’s the plan.

Go, look at art. Take your time: art's contribution to invention is a subtle lesson. You have to spend time with art to appreciate the instruction. A brief glance will rarely do the trick. And rememberthat performers and writers are artists, too.

Take art home with you if you possibly can. (Hint: the “Small Expressions” exhibit at Brandy’s Restaurant is billed as “Small, fun and affordable.”) Then treat yourself to a new box of crayons, scoop up your favorite five-year-old and go color. If anyone really knows about invention, it’s a kindergartner.

This writing appeared in Flagstaff Live! on January 21, 1999.