Reader Response to Insane Artist Myth

A response  from Jimmie Robinson to  The Insane Artist Myth -

Of course the question on the face is simplistic, however, that could be said of any person who excels in their industry with some high degree of passion.

The question(s) that should be sought are the possible connections that the myth feeds to an already highly individualized mind as often seen in the artist community. Who, by several accounts, both meet the myth and shun it. Just as their are those passionate about their art and those who simply make commercial art. In short, this is a question of the individuals *identity* as an artist, which can be quite powerful and influential in their lives.

Learning a craft versus being born with a talent is in fact, a physical and neurological difference. This could impart how one aligns with a concept that the world is different naturally — despite what society informs — could be seen as the key between the range of those who call themselves “artists” and those who simply learn a skill or could lead their lives in any direction without a thought.

Not to say the question should be confined to the idiot savant, which marks the extreme condition of seeing the world differently, but a closer look that smaller and deft versions of that condition could exist and be molded by great artists. Likewise, the romantic myth of the loner artist is continued and fed. It’s not up to the artist to sustain the myth, but for society to embrace it. And likewise, as in a dance, it continues as it is needed by society and the culture that created it.

To debunk either side of the discussion dismantles the concept which lives on its own terms. Like a human romantic relationship, it’s not the man, or the woman, but also the relationship that exists in the center and around all three. Likewise, the myth of the artist, much as in the church, evolves and coexists with each person who has a relationship with their art. Picasso, in your opinion, may have been “nuts” but even that is subjective to definition and lord knows what he may have been prescribed as a mental patient, haha!

We can only guess what meds would have done to his art.

Likewise, I can only speculate on all these theories since I only live inside my own head and I’m not privy to the inner workings of others. Still, I can’t see it as a singular or simple question, either.
Humans are just way too complicated.

Tweet This Post