Proof of life?
This morning I heard an NPR news blurb about AI use in email and interviews with tech workers from the TechCrunch Disrupt conference in San Francisco. AI is writing emails and auto-responses in fractions of a second and actual human people are beginning to make efforts, like intentional misspellings, creative license with self selected grammar rules (like all lower case i’s when referring to themselves), or use of old school keyboard emojis to “prove” their human-ness in their behind-a-screen written communication. I don’t even know quite how to respond to this. It seems absurd. But it’s a real conversation.
YET, ALSO this morning I saw an Instagram post describing results of a scientific study in the UK about how viewing original art has a positive impact on three different body systems. Real life viewing, in person, of original art; real impact on our biology.
Artist Jon Morse in his studio (photo by Chistopher Sebastian)
This made me think about my conversation with artist Jon Morse, whose work I recently helped bring to Spokane for an extended showing at Uptic Architecture & Design Studios. In talking with Jon about details in his paintings and his process, he shared that he is intentional in leaving trace elements of his sketch lines visible underneath the paint, in certain light and angles. Take a step closer to the canvases, subtle brush strokes whisper evidence of something real, our eyes and brain at once sensing the three dimensionality and texture without having to touch it. Proof of life, of the human hand and soul. While these graphic visuals have undeniably precise lines and distinct shapes they also contain meticulously crafted paint drips; individual decision and organic motion captured.
Back to that UK study - Jon’s work and practice have evolved to represent the mediation and balance that he seeks in his own life and his art reflects this back to us; our human eyes, brains, breath and ultimately, bodies. I highly encourage you to find a way in your day to pop an original art chill-pill, a fantastic medicine for the soul in the world of uncertain intelligence.
Actual people, enjoying art & music at the opening reception for Jon’s show at Uptic Studios.