Great refections. I loved everything about this article. I remember standing in the Louvre, years ago, marveling at the folds of silk in a painting of a man. It took my breath away in the same way as the Rembrandt. Your words have a similar effect in the way they reveal hidden shadows.
I can't say I'm cultured enough to understand the significance of the art style. Or talk about how amazing art pieces are. So I'll have to pass on talking about that. I remember seeing a similar picture awhile back with a bunch of students staring at their screens in the presence of great art, and people were saying similar things, how today's generation can't appreciate art etc.
Though it turns out, the museum's notes or history of the pieces were on an app and the students had to look up certain information about the art.
But as you've pointed out, it's unfair to blame the younglings for the declining interest in arts because they, like myself can't or rather, don't understand it and without proper teachers to educate, teach or spark our interest, it's hard to properly appreciate a work of art.
Still, the world would be a better place if people stopped burying their faces in their screens and took in more of the world around them.
It's funny, your reflections reminded me of an experience I had back in Year 8, when our school received funding for becoming an 'academy.' What did they decide to do? Give every student an iPad. On paper, it seemed like an exciting opportunity, but in reality, it disconnected us from one another. I remember rainy days when, instead of playing or interacting, we’d sit on the benches, glued to our screens. I eventually joined in—mostly to avoid feeling left out—but the sense of community had vanished. It’s a perfect example of technology’s double-edged sword: it promises engagement but often undermines any chance of meaningful connection.
I also agree with your point about not blaming younger generations for the decline in interest in the arts. Without context, it’s hard to connect with a work of art. True appreciation often follows understanding, and without a passionate teacher to spark that connection, it’s no surprise students lose interest. For example, my brother, a wickedly talented illustrator, sparked my interest in old-school anime—an art form I might have overlooked otherwise. Similarly, had I not read Homer and Virgil, I might not have fully grasped the awe you felt toward the painting of Athena. Personally, I believe it's not a lack of interest but rather a shift in the types and formats of storytelling that resonate with people today. It's up to the storytellers to remind the world just how spectacular the arts can be.
P.S. If you haven’t read Aristotle’s Poetics, I highly recommend it. I read it a few months ago and found it fascinating. He explores why we’re drawn to the arts, touching on universality and how art stirs emotions deep within us. It was an eye-opening read and highly reminiscent of Ethan Hawke's message!
Great refections. I loved everything about this article. I remember standing in the Louvre, years ago, marveling at the folds of silk in a painting of a man. It took my breath away in the same way as the Rembrandt. Your words have a similar effect in the way they reveal hidden shadows.
The Louvre has so many treasures. Isn't that breathless feeling wonderful in the presence of great art? Thanks so much for the kind words, Tree!
I can't say I'm cultured enough to understand the significance of the art style. Or talk about how amazing art pieces are. So I'll have to pass on talking about that. I remember seeing a similar picture awhile back with a bunch of students staring at their screens in the presence of great art, and people were saying similar things, how today's generation can't appreciate art etc.
Though it turns out, the museum's notes or history of the pieces were on an app and the students had to look up certain information about the art.
But as you've pointed out, it's unfair to blame the younglings for the declining interest in arts because they, like myself can't or rather, don't understand it and without proper teachers to educate, teach or spark our interest, it's hard to properly appreciate a work of art.
Still, the world would be a better place if people stopped burying their faces in their screens and took in more of the world around them.
Great piece, Will! I love your points.
It's funny, your reflections reminded me of an experience I had back in Year 8, when our school received funding for becoming an 'academy.' What did they decide to do? Give every student an iPad. On paper, it seemed like an exciting opportunity, but in reality, it disconnected us from one another. I remember rainy days when, instead of playing or interacting, we’d sit on the benches, glued to our screens. I eventually joined in—mostly to avoid feeling left out—but the sense of community had vanished. It’s a perfect example of technology’s double-edged sword: it promises engagement but often undermines any chance of meaningful connection.
I also agree with your point about not blaming younger generations for the decline in interest in the arts. Without context, it’s hard to connect with a work of art. True appreciation often follows understanding, and without a passionate teacher to spark that connection, it’s no surprise students lose interest. For example, my brother, a wickedly talented illustrator, sparked my interest in old-school anime—an art form I might have overlooked otherwise. Similarly, had I not read Homer and Virgil, I might not have fully grasped the awe you felt toward the painting of Athena. Personally, I believe it's not a lack of interest but rather a shift in the types and formats of storytelling that resonate with people today. It's up to the storytellers to remind the world just how spectacular the arts can be.
P.S. If you haven’t read Aristotle’s Poetics, I highly recommend it. I read it a few months ago and found it fascinating. He explores why we’re drawn to the arts, touching on universality and how art stirs emotions deep within us. It was an eye-opening read and highly reminiscent of Ethan Hawke's message!