What is art?

– March 3, 2009Posted in: Art Talk


Courtesy of Prescott-Photography.comSome say art is a color, a scent, a thought, or an expression.  Some would say life itself, is art if you look at it through the right perspective.  A great story has endless possibilities that sheds like light from the rising sun to embrace ones’ imagination.  To support this claim I bring forth the story of an individual who is fascinating to every aspect of art, including a life dedicated to community service.

Despite his world renowned success as a sculptor, I focus primarily on the life he chooses to live.  John M. Soderberg is the vehicle of choice to remind myself and any one listening that, you can single handedly- make a difference if you so choose.

John is a guiding light for the spiritually inclined considering most of his personal time has been given to charity through donated time.  Although John has an above average level of sincerityCourtesy of Prescott-Photography.comaccomplished within his time, as an artist he has pushed the envelope considerably on what one may call “well done” through the reflection of consideration.

Art is about example, sharing common ground with a great line in a poem, a perfect stroke with the brush  or even a great monumental contribution, it is in fact about the choice of living and that existence itself can define true art.

Those of us intrigued by art may find ourselves aware of John’s work as a sculptor’ and, may even be aware that obtaining his work on consignment may leave us on a waiting list for several years but, what few may know is what this man has done as a missionary in his spare time.

I am fortunate to say that I was able to spend time with John and tour his studio in Camp Verde, Arizona.  We took a ride into Sedona to visit a few galleries where some of his works were on display.  During conversation I learned that John’s father served as an undercover missionary in many countries, which had John on the move since childhood.

Courtesy of Prescott-Photography.comI suppose John continued in his father’s footsteps by becoming a volunteer service-worker and traveling the world, helping to recover the compassion once thought to be lost within society.

The roots to John’s perspective is quite possibly a three day convention that could be released as a class room seminar however, I will provide you with a link to hear John explain in his own words how art can and will alter the direction of creativity and ultimately align ones own ability to digest and absorb the hidden wonders of imagination.

Click here to watch the video

Click here to visit John’s website.