The Interpretation of Art: Understanding vs. Personal Interpretation

Art as a medium of expression carries a unique essence that can be both universal and deeply personal. The way an artist communicates their message can be either clearly defined or open to individual interpretation. This article delves into the dichotomy between artists who convey a clear message and those who invite viewers to delve into their own creative interpretation.

My Personal Experience with Art Interpretation

Many years ago, during a solo exhibition in Ufa, I had a profound experience that highlighted the difference between an artist's intended message and the diverse ways viewers interpret art. The piece in question was a small surrealistic painting, created through a process of meditation and intuition. This painting emanated a mystical, mysterious, and anxious atmosphere, reflecting its surreal nature.

During the exhibition, I interacted with many students who came to explore my artwork. One young student, intrigued by my small painting, asked about its meaning and content. She paused in front of it, seemingly captivated by the red transformed old woman depicted. Instead of waiting for an immediate response, she began to interpret the painting herself, suggesting that the image symbolized the other world. Her interpretation was vast and detailed, adding layers and meanings that were beyond my original conception. This moment was transformative, illustrating the magic of personal interpretation and the creative perception it can inspire.

Types of Artistic Communication

Art can be categorized into two primary types based on the artist's approach to communication:

Clear Message Art: This type of artwork leaves little room for viewer interpretation. The artist intends to deliver a specific message or idea that is understandable and definitive. An example would be 2x2 puzzles, where the solution is clear and unambiguous. Open Interpretation Art: In contrast, artists who create open-ended artworks encourage viewers to engage in their own interpretation. This approach allows for a rich and diverse array of meanings, reflecting the personal experiences and perspectives of each viewer. For instance, the same piece of art can be seen differently by various individuals, leading to multiple interpretations and solutions.

This second type of art invites viewers into the artist's creative space, offering them the opportunity to complete the narrative or content. This interaction between artist and viewer can be highly enriching, as it fosters a deeper connection with the art.

The Ideal Approach: A Blend of Both

I find the ideal approach to be a balance between the two types of communication. While the artist should express their ideas and emotions clearly, there should also be room for viewers to explore and interpret the work. This combination encourages a multi-faceted engagement with the art, enriching the overall experience for both the artist and the audience.

For example, my painting not only communicated my intended message but also prompted the viewer to imagine and create their own meanings. This mutual exploration of the artwork is what I consider truly magical and creatively fulfilling.

In conclusion, the way we interpret art can reveal a lot about our personal perspectives and experiences. Whether art is intended to be clearly understood or open to interpretation, both methods contribute to the rich and diverse world of artistic expression.

Creator of Changes 2014

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the exhibiting artist or the venue(s) in which this artwork was displayed.