Do Artists Have Better Mind’s Eyes Than the Rest of Us?

Introduction to the Artistic Mind’s Eye

Abstract artists like myself and textile designers once had the habit of analyzing patterns and colors separately. Over time, we have learned to see them together, often finding inspiration in this combined vision. This journey is not unique to me; it is a common experience among visual artists.

Would you believe that our innate abilities to visualize are honed to a degree that surpasses most people? Well, that’s exactly what some of the greatest artists have claimed. Michelangelo, for instance, once stated, 'Visualizing is the first and most important task of any artist; it is as important to them as the blueprint is to the builder, as memorization of the parts of the body is to the surgeon.' These statements highlight the critical role of visualization in the artistic process.

The Development of Visual Acuity in Artists

Many artists are naturally gifted with exceptional visual acuity, especially during their childhood. Certain individuals, like myself, had the capability to visualize at a young age. However, as we grow and live our lives, we tend to settle into a more comfortable and specified way of perceiving the world. We often default to predefined images, adjusting our vision to fit our preconceived notions, rather than constantly exploring new and different perspectives.

This is where children face a unique challenge. Between the ages of 8 and 12, many start to develop a different perception of the world that leads to frustration. They find it increasingly difficult to accurately render what they see internally. This is a common experience highlighted by Picasso, who famously stated, 'Our visual acuity develops much faster than our ability to draw what we see internally, which leads many children at 8-12 years old to become frustrated with a lack of ability to render realism.' Consequently, they may either become obsessed with achieving realism or completely lose interest in art.

Continuing to Develop Inner Vision

What truly makes artists, artists is their ability to continue nurturing and developing their inner vision. It is not about drawing realistically, but rather capturing what is seen within them. This skill is akin to the surgeon who memorizes the human body or the architect who designs blueprints; it is a deeply personal and essential component of the artistic process.

As an artist, I understand the challenge of this process. For me, every drawing is a meticulous journey that can span 180 to 240 hours. I begin with a rough idea, refine it into a two-dimensional composition, and use that to create guidelines on my paper. However, from that point on, my drawings are based on what I see and feel, not just what I am writing down. This process is not unique to me; writers, especially fiction writers, do the same thing. They capture both the visual and auditory aspects, while I focus on capturing what I feel and see within myself.

Conclusion

Artists indeed have a heightened sense of visual acuity and the ability to visualize. We are able to perceive the world in a way that many others cannot. This ability, which is often a natural gift, can be further developed through practice and dedication. Whether it is through drawing, writing, or any other form of artistic expression, the key is to continue honing your inner vision. And remember, the end goal is not to render an external world perfectly, but to accurately capture the internal world that is continually shaping your art.