Organic art involves working with the materials of living organisms to create beautiful works of art. The materials can include fur, feathers, body parts, plants, and even food. These materials have been used to create art for millennia. Most pigments in ancient paintings came from mineral or plant matter. For example, the Aztec Empire and the Pacific American Indian cultures used feathers and featherwork to create intricate works of art. These techniques blur the line between art and artifact. Today, many modern artists are attempting to expand on the traditional definitions of art.
Whether it is a wooden sculpture or an assemblage of natural materials, organic art reflects nature. Some artists who are known for their organic style include Christopher Martin and Shar Coulson. Their work is inspired by the shapes, colors, and textures of nature. Some artists even make their pieces with organic shapes to enhance the beauty of a natural scene.
Organic shapes are irregular, curved, and imperfect. These shapes lend an unpredictability to the finished work. This makes the art more realistic and natural. These shapes are often used in landscape, still life, and portraits. Samuel John Peploe, for example, painted flowers and apples with organic shapes.
Organic shapes also have the ability to contrast with each other. For instance, vibrant red can contrast with dull green, or a rough texture next to a smooth one. Organic shapes also have the ability to create unique forms. Unlike geometric shapes, organic shapes are not easily described. In fact, descriptions of organic art depend on impressions and comparisons based on individual experience.
To be truly organic, an image must be created without the interference of the creator. The artist must simply apply his or her problem-solving skills, and stop only when it feels that the adjustment has worked. The process must be a free-flowing process. Aside from this, organic art requires the artist to put themselves out of the way and let the process work.
The Organic Artist is a wonderful book that explores the intersection of nature and art. It provides a wealth of inspiration and teaches the artist how to use natural materials to create beautiful works. It teaches the process of creation and introduces concepts such as awareness and perception to the artist. This book is a must-have for the beginner and advanced artist alike.
Bonsai is an example of an organic art form. A bonsai artist sculpts a tree into an intricate form. The resulting work of art is then interpreted by a human being using an organic mind. A bonsai artist explains how to style trees and blend Western and Eastern aesthetics. The artist even shares information on the history of each tree.