Influence and Influenced
AQUA
We influence our environment as our environment influences us. We are not in total control over our circumstances but neither totally controlled by our circumstances. This is something I aim to project in my artwork. You may notice in my work the composition of a calm figure with a peaceful demeanor surrounded by a very dynamic and often chaotic environment. We can’t control what happens around us but we can choose to assume self-control and self-regulation to influence our environment. This is one of the principles of Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Triadic Reciprocal Determinism (TRD). It might sound a little complicated but it is not.
For several years now I’ve been immersed in trying to understand how people learn. I know it is not as cool as being an artist but learning and teaching are areas in which I’m very passionate about, and it is also part of my research. According to SCT and TRD our perception of who we are and what we can do is determined by the interaction of 3 factors: environment, behavior, and cognitive factors. I will explain in greater detail how these factors interact and how they affect our perception of ourselves and our capabilities. These factors also affect how we interact in social settings (Stay tuned for that post)… I bet you didn’t know that! Well, yes, I am a scholar too.
Today is a good day to consider how the environment is influencing us. Are we letting our circumstances take total control of who we are? Have we consider our role to influence our environment? We are not in control of our circumstances, I understand that. Nevertheless, we cannot be controlled by our circumstances. In the middle of the craziness surrounding us we can still be in peace and making a difference not only in our lives but the lives of others.
The more I learn about learning, the more I am convinced that learning is a transformative experience in which knowledge is shared and each personal experience is intertwined as part of a larger story. I am an educator, instructional designer, and fine artist. I teach with a holistic view of the world but focusing on the specific needs of the learner and their experience. I aim to guide learners to connect and use knowledge in practical ways. Experience motivates theory, and theory substantiates practice as experience supports theory. In my practice, I provide learners with opportunities for sharing knowledge and experience, exploration, experimentation, and discovery, in both individual and collaborative levels.
Seeing how knowledge becomes alive is of great motivation and validation for the effort. It is also a learning experience for myself. “Individuals are not just the result of their environment or life circumstances, but rather individuals consciously contribute to their environment or life circumstances to change their environments and themselves.” It is a rewarding experience to see and being part of the transformation, more so when I see my students serving others for the same purpose.
How to Explain Your Art
Find yourself in time
Newsflash!!! “There is nothing new under the sun“. This is at times an ego check to artists. You are only as unique as the variation and “spirit” you provide to your art. I suggest you look into an art history book and find yourself in time. All we do have an origin and an influence somewhere in the past. Get to know the arts that influence your art, and where your inspiration draws from. Don’t be intimidated by comparisons from artists from the past. That should be a compliment.
Assess your logic
No matter how “random” you think your art is, there must be a logic behind it. This logic can be found in the use of color, the strokes, rhythm, as it can be conceptual and philosophical. You can find this logic in every movement of art including modern art. Find your logic. When you do and explain it to people they will feel more involved with your work than you could imagine.
Assess your emotions
Maybe the explanation to your logic is found in what you feel when you are working. Art is a sensorial experience after all. Some people like to listen to a specific kind of music to get in a specific kind of mood. Anger, happiness, relaxation, tension, hope, sadness, loss, loneliness… there are many emotions that transpire in our work that if we can’t identify them someone would.
Now you can tell your story and provide the viewers with the “spirit” of the work and engage them even more. The more you immerse yourself in understanding your craft, the better you get at it, the more inspiration you find, the more engagement from your viewers you reach. Learn about other styles too, specially those that came before and after the one that identify yours. The more you know, the more your confidence as an artist will grow too. Educate yourself to explain your art.