Art Planet International

Defining what makes something ‘art’ is one of the philosophical pursuits. Reaching consensus on what makes something ‘art’ and not just a failed attempt to create something worthy of being called ‘art’ seems elusive between equally discerning people but of different points of view. One thing is certain and agreed upon, is that art must be something that somehow is attempting to communicate something. Even if that message is just an emotion, or an interpretation of an experience, or some other hidden, or not so hidden message.
It should be noted that our idea of art and artists is a relatively modern notion. Many objects from long ago, such as Greek painted vases, medieval illuminated manuscripts, or even portraits, were objects which were valued, admired and loved, but perhaps because of their utilitarian usage, would not be considered ‘art’ the way we think of art today.
In modern times something considered a ‘work of art’ almost never has a value as a useful object. Even today we make the distinction between someone who is an ‘illustrator’ and another person who is a ‘painter.’ Even if the illustrations are clearly beautiful and evocative of emotions, just because the drawing or painting is used to accompany a story, for instance someone like Norman Rockwell, his work would not necessarily be given the honor of being called ‘real art.’

The world of art is huge, encompassing everything from masterpiece oil paintings, to traditional folk crafts, music, theater, avant-garde performance art, and an amazing amount more. It is our desire to bring the world of art to your front door, helping you enjoy and appreciate the depth and breadth of the human creative impulse.