International Artists Day

International Artist’s Day: Making the Invisible Visible

Have you ever stood in front of a piece of art, wondering what the artist was trying to say? Feeling a sense of awe and confusion at the same time? You’re not alone.
Art has that magical power to captivate us, sometimes leaving us a tad bewildered. It’s a universal language that doesn’t always come with a translation guide and will be interpreted in different ways by different people despite its original intended message. But that’s the beauty of it.
Today, on International Artists Day, we’re here to unlock the mystery, celebrate the artists who create the art that enriches our lives.
So, grab your beret and finest bohemian attire, appreciating art is good for your soul!

A Palette of Purpose

International Artist’s Day is not just another date on the calendar with pretty pictures or catchy tunes.
This day is all about acknowledging the countless contributions that artists make to society and to celebrate their work. It’s a day to show our appreciation for the beauty and wonder that art brings into our lives.
Art isn’t just for museums; it’s in your life. Spot the masterpieces!

What Qualifies As An Artist?

So, who’s this mysterious figure we call an artist?
That’s a definition so slippery, it’s like trying to explain why cats always seem to land on their feet, except when they don’t.
When you think of artists, don’t just picture painters with their palettes or sculptors molding masterpieces. The artistic realm extends far beyond that! Let’s not forget actors, dancers, photographers, writers, musicians, poets, and even digital wizards who conjure mesmerizing realms on our screens.

The word “artist” comes from the Medieval Latin word “artista,” which in turn  finds its roots in the Latin word “ars,” which means “skill” or “craft.”
Originally, the word “artist” was used to refer to anyone who was skilled in a particular trade, but over time it came to be used specifically to refer to those who possess a remarkable ability to turn mere ideas into tangible, wondrous creations, using a variety of medium, including painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, and film.

The Artful Mystery

Trying to pinpoint when the first piece of art was created is a topic where even the scholars disagree, and that’s perfectly fine. The essence of art is not etched in stone, but in the feelings it evokes.
It’s a taste that’s deeply personal and varies from one moment to the next like a kaleidoscope of individual experiences that change with every blink of an eye.
The purpose of art is not to have all the answers but to stir something within you, to spark conversation, to make you wonder, and to appreciate the diversity of perspectives it offers.

Reasons To Appreciate Artworks And Artists

• Art Tells Stories:
  Artists are storytellers in their own right. Through their creations, they spin tales of love, heartache, adventure, and triumph. These stories can transport us to different times and places, offering a welcome escape from the ordinary.
• Art Speaks to Emotions:
  Art has the power to move us, to make us laugh, cry, ponder, and feel deeply. It can help us to understand our own feelings and the feelings of others.
• Universal Language:
  Art transcends language barriers. It’s like a secret code that people from different corners of the world can decipher. You might not speak the same words, but you speak the same art.
• Art Challenges Us:
  Art has an uncanny ability to push the boundaries of our imagination. It challenges us to see the world from different perspectives and to think critically about our values and beliefs.
• Stirring Debate:
  Art invites conversation. Whether you’re discussing its meaning or debating its worth, it’s a catalyst for lively dialogues.
• Inspiration Incarnate:
  Art can be a source of inspiration and motivation. It can help us to see what is possible and to believe in our own abilities.
• A Glimpse into the Sublime:
  Sometimes, art takes us beyond the ordinary, into the realms of the extraordinary, reminding us of the beauty in the world.

Memes: Art in the Age of Pixels, or Just Internet Fodder?

Memes are almost like the cultural currency of the internet. But are they art or just frivolous digital tidbits? 

Arguments In Favor Of Memes Being Art:

• Expressive Language:
  Memes are an excellent medium to perform the art of humor and satire. They have their own visual language, communicating complex ideas in a few well-placed images and words.
• Wit-Craft:
  Crafting a meme is like composing a visual haiku. It requires a keen understanding of cultural references, wordplay, visual design and a dash of genius. Memes are mini works of art, just in a digital, comical form.
• Shared Experience:
  Memes create a shared experience that transcends borders. They’re like inside jokes with the entire internet, making you feel like part of a massive, quirky club.
• Cultural Commentary:
  Just like traditional art, memes are a reflection of our times. Memes often poke fun at societal norms and trends. They’re like the cheeky observers of our culture, commenting on societal issues with humor and irony, much like political cartoons.
• Emotional Impact:
  A well-crafted meme can tug at your heartstrings or make you burst into laughter, just like a good piece of art.
• Evolutionary Art:
  Memes are ever-changing and evolving, adapting to the current cultural climate.

Why Memes Aren’t Quite Artforms:

• Ephemeral Nature:
  Memes are fleeting, here today and gone tomorrow. They’re created, shared, and quickly replaced by the next viral sensation.
• Minimalist Aesthetic:
  While some memes are artful, many are simplistic in design and purpose.
• Mass Production:
  Memes are churned out by the thousands daily which can dilute the idea of art, which is often associated with more unique and carefully crafted creations.
• Originality Questions:
  Memes often remix existing content, raising questions about originality compared to traditional art.
• Intention vs. Accidental: Memes can become memes accidentally, without the artist’s intention. Art is typically a deliberate creation.
• Low Entry Barrier:
  Anyone can make a meme, which is both a blessing and a curse.
• Variability:
  Memes can range from high-quality satire to lowbrow humor. It’s like comparing a gourmet meal to a late-night snack; they both serve their purpose, but one’s a bit fancier.
• Constant Evolution: Memes are constantly evolving, and yesterday’s viral sensation is today’s forgotten artifact. Much like trying to keep up with fast-fashion.

Fun fact about all the above arguments, whether it be pro or con, is that all of these same arguments can be used for any piece of officially recognized artwork.
If you enjoy the aesthetic of a meme and it makes you feel emotions and/or makes you think. Then that meme gives you a genuine art experience.
Maybe art is not what you see, but what you make others see!

The Origin of International Artist’s Day

International Artist’s Day was created by Canadian artist Chris MacClure in 2004 to raise awareness of the contributions that artists make to society and to celebrate their work.
As October 25th is Pablo Picasso’s birthday, he decided to celebrate International Artist’s Day on that day.

Today, International Artists Day is recognized and celebrated worldwide as a day to celebrate all artists and to recognize the importance of art in our lives and to appreciate the creativity and talent of artists everywhere.

Celebrating International Artists Day

• Visit an Art Gallery:
   Visit an art gallery or museum. Attend a concert or dance performance. See a play or musical. Get cultured by strolling through an art gallery, admiring the strokes of genius or the good vibes of a song.
• Support Local Artists: Purchase Art:
  Purchase a piece of art from a local artist, and not only will you own a unique creation, but you’ll also support the creative souls in your community.
• Host a Mini Art Show:
  Display your favorite artworks, even if they’re just doodles on your fridge. Invite friends and discuss the deeper meaning of that abstract squiggle.
• Share Art with a Friend:
  Invite a friend over and have an impromptu art night. Analyze, create, and laugh together.
• Movie Night:
  See a movie in a theater and experience the audiovisual narrative. Make it a cinematic feast, complete with popcorn and dimmed lights.
• Try Artistic Fusion:
  Mix two seemingly unrelated art forms, like painting while listening to classic rock or dancing to electro-swing. It’s a surefire way to spark creativity.
• Recreate Memes:
  Turn your favorite memes into physical art. Imagine creating a three-dimensional sculpture of the “Cheezburger Cat” behind the “Change my mind” table.
• Share Your Artistic Discoveries:
  Share your favorite artworks that deeply resonate with you on social media using the hashtag #InternationalArtistsDay. Tag your fellow art enthusiasts and celebrate together.

Dive into the Canvas

In a world bursting with art, remember that you too are an artist. Artists Day is your canvas, and you’re the brush painting your experiences on the canvas of existence.
So if someone asks why you’re painting a miniature impression of the town red (literally), just tell them that Wild Calendar gave you the artistic license to do so and invite them to join in the fun. Art knows no boundaries, and neither should your celebration of it!
And don’t forget to take some time to appreciate the art that surrounds you. Get out there and celebrate the artists in your community who inspire us to see the world in new ways and to be more creative ourselves.
Happy International Artist’s Day!