Meaning:
The quote "Art is pattern informed by sensibility" by Herbert Read, a poet and art critic, encapsulates a profound understanding of the nature and essence of art. Read's words highlight the deeply interconnected relationship between the structural elements of art and the emotional or sensory experiences that inform and shape them.
At its core, art is a manifestation of human creativity and expression. It encompasses a wide range of forms, including visual arts, literature, music, performance, and more. Within each of these forms, artists use various patterns, structures, and techniques to convey their ideas, emotions, and perceptions to their audience. These patterns serve as the framework through which artistic expression is organized and communicated.
The concept of pattern in art refers to the repetition, arrangement, and organization of visual or auditory elements. Patterns can be found in the rhythmic arrangement of lines and shapes in a painting, the recurring motifs in a musical composition, or the structural framework of a literary work. Patterns provide a sense of order, coherence, and harmony within the artwork, guiding the viewer or audience through the artist's intended experience.
However, Read's assertion that art is "informed by sensibility" introduces a crucial dimension to the understanding of art. Sensibility, in this context, refers to the artist's sensitivity, emotional responsiveness, and perceptiveness to the world around them. It is through the lens of sensibility that artists infuse their work with depth, meaning, and emotional resonance. The artist's sensibility influences the choice of patterns, the manipulation of form, and the overall aesthetic sensibility of the artwork.
When Read suggests that art is "informed by sensibility," he emphasizes the intimate connection between the artist's personal experiences, emotions, and perceptions, and the creation of art. Artists draw upon their sensibility to imbue their work with a unique, individualized expression that reflects their inner world and resonates with the sensibilities of the audience.
In essence, Read's quote underscores the idea that art is not solely a product of technical skill or formal structure; rather, it is a product of the artist's ability to translate their sensibility into pattern. The interplay between pattern and sensibility is what gives art its richness, complexity, and capacity to evoke profound emotional responses in those who engage with it.
Furthermore, Read's perspective invites us to consider the role of the audience or viewer in perceiving and interpreting art. The patterns within the artwork, shaped by the artist's sensibility, interact with the sensibilities of the audience, creating a dynamic exchange of emotions, ideas, and experiences. Thus, art becomes a medium through which human sensibilities are shared, communicated, and amplified.
In conclusion, Herbert Read's quote "Art is pattern informed by sensibility" encapsulates the intricate fusion of structure and emotion within the realm of art. By acknowledging the symbiotic relationship between pattern and sensibility, Read offers a profound insight into the nature of artistic creation and appreciation. This perspective invites us to engage with art not only as a visual or auditory experience but also as a profound dialogue between the artist's sensibility and the sensitivities of the audience.