While technical training in art can be invaluable, there is mounting evidence that suggests focusing on creativity and self-expression can lead to more innovative and impactful art.
For artist Matthew Gwyer, art is all about reaching people through visuals. Gwyer, who is steadily building a name for himself as an artist, has been featured in international news publications, sharing tips and tricks about how to become a better artist.
The young artist has showcased his work in shows and exhibits across the U.S., and has sold out on his website numerous times. His first oil painting series sold out quickly, which gave the budding artist an extra push to keep pursuing art.
Gwyer maintains that art is a valuable means of communication and self-expression, and it serves the public in ways most people don’t take the time to comprehend. Whether it’s music or visual art, the truth is that art makes us feel emotions deeply. It makes us ponder our feelings and share them with others.
His advice to emerging artists? “Don’t be afraid to express yourself.”
Research has shown that many successful artists have eschewed traditional artistic techniques in favor of creating art that speaks to them and their audiences. This is often the strategy that leads to groundbreaking and influential work.
Nicola Slawson published a feature in The Guardian and in it, she said: “The arts help meet challenges in health and social care associated with aging, loneliness, long-term conditions and mental health.”
To elaborate on Slawson’s point, she went on to note that weekly art workshops hosted by Arts and Minds, a leading mental health charity, has been running weekly art workshops for people experiencing depression in Cambridge for the past several years.
The findings have been eye-opening. An evaluation later revealed a 71 percent reduction in feelings of anxiety and a 73 percent fall in depression. Furthermore, 76 percent of the participants said their wellbeing increased, and 69 percent felt more socially included.
The truth is that while art speaks to everyone individually, it also brings people together in one physical environment. It sparks conversation and debate, but ultimately, it brings people together and unites them over a shared interest.
That’s why Matthew Gwyer is adamant that artists should use their craft to express themselves rather than to simply showcase their artistic prowess.
While Gwyer creates pieces that are evocative to look at, he’s determined to reach people and make them feel emotions with his artwork.
He says it’s important to think outside the box and contribute something new to the artistic space. That’s what’s most fulfilling as an artist – knowing that you’re contributing and bringing novelty to your craft.
Rather than being creative for creativity’s sake, Gwyer recommends being creative with intent.
The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once said that “A picture is a model of reality.” That’s why Gwyer says it’s important to show your reality, your true artistic expression within your work.
That’s your service to the world, that’s your service to your craft.
Visit Matthew Gwyer’s official website to get access to his latest features, upcoming painting series, and to purchase his artwork.
