Painter and poet, MORGAN NWANGUMA, is projecting a rare but not really novel art frontier ' the hidden psycological properties of art forms and colours.But he is taking the study farther into the realm of healing, as well as group and social therapy. Here is one of his several essays on the topic: ART, as most of us know, is creativity and beauty. But beyond that is what we probably all do not know or may not acknowledge: It is also all about man in his every day quest for survival. Debatable, may be. But ''just look around you, the whole man-made world is art.' This is a universal truism. For instance, the buildings all around us ' architecture of course being a fine art; the motor cars and the likes; textiles and fashion garbs, etc. Take a look at the landscapes and skylines created by man. They are all works born out of creative thoughts and imagination. The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary of Current English defines art as 'the creation or expression of what is beautiful, especially in visual form.'To understanding art in its entirety, one must fully appreciate its usefulness and applicability in the act and process of attaining wellness. But, first, what is the function of art' Art being as old as man, has always been functional, be it for the purposes of religious, social or domestic use among other ends. But embedded in all of these, is its untapped great and hidden power to heal. Viewed from the perspectives of colour application and colour psychology this begins to make sense. Colour, be it in painting, design or sculpture, etc. is used to enhance or beautify a work of art apart from being a medium of expression.Brief analysis of painting and colour can offer better grasp of this artistic essence. Before any colour is applied or used at all, the artist as well as most 'conscious' persons would, understand the fact that there exists warm and cool colours, as well as neutral colours. There are also combinations that will turn out to be hot or cold, violent, rioting, noisy, and even harmonious. Colour usage also can result in balance, heaviness or lightness of weight, as well as the depiction of temperament and character, among other moods. Sometimes we react to colours or certain pieces of art works without knowing it. We know quite alright that we are feeling something but not knowing what, or why. We can actually feel heat or cold physically, or even a change of mood within, due to colours we see around us. Most people would for instance reject the idea of having their rooms painted red or black. If anybody does otherwise, you would want his head examined, I suppose. One would want to ask why this is so' Why do most men refuse bright red outfits, for instance, unless of course they are engaged in professional entertainment or showbiz' In fact a baby was known to have cried out hysterically when placed in a room painted with strong red hues. These are just diagnostic bits and analyses that could be used in the approach to touchy situations affecting the human mind. Leonardo da Vinci once said that 'the eye is the window of the soul'. He was explaining the basics involved in artistic expression. Thus one would advance also that since a window is an open channel, it follows therefore that the mind could also be positively or negatively affected by what is thrown into that window through artistic expressions or visual consumption as it were.The great psychoanalysts, and surrealists spearheaded by Salvador Dali et al, have been known to carry their experiments far enough as to compulsively work on the mind of people. But these have not necessarily been by any conscious efforts or arrangements. Sometimes it entails the adaptation of the researches carried out by the fauvists who emphasise just the juxtaposition of colours, with less regard for composition. Dali and his colleagues would rather employ forms and objects of visible reality in a smooth rendition, to relay to the viewer a Freudian dream picture. Consider also the researches into the possibility of psychosomatic structural changes in animals and human beings, with a view to 'altering' their behavioural pattern. Here, one can look at the works of Viktor Vasarely for example. Sometimes the works of the artists themselves probably affect them too.The Renaissance's great masters also did utilise this wonderful attribute of art, rather unconsciously, and in collaboration with their patrons who were mostly the church. The church could have been aware of what they were doing. Examples of these are evident in the grandiose religious paintings and sculptures of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and others whose works depict the life of saints, Christianity's teachings and doctrines, church injunctions and visions. The solemnity and grandeur of these works alone, against the backdrop of classical hymns and Christian anthems, one reasons, were enough to deliver the goods.And today, it is known that in a few advanced climes some hospitals have been equipped with pictures that will enable patients recover quickly. In children's wards for example, serene pictures depicting atmospheres of play and cheer are being used just by hanging them on the walls for the patients to see all the time. This approach is equally necessary in the adult wards. Sometimes it should be paintings showing holiday atmosphere; serene and lonely hideouts and resorts, etc. One emphasises paintings, and not just photographs, because the appeal of a painted picture is always different. It is more romantic, quaint and looking ' 'created'. It could still be a quality print, i.e. the reproduction of an original painting.While discussing this aspect of art, once with a medical doctor friend, he was amazed at its startling possibilities. Hospitals and clinics should start applying this. The use and application of this form of therapy would therefore actually transcend from the mundane to the subliminal essence, by psychologists, physicians, psychiatrists and even spiritualists alike. It is indeed a whole new world.And what do we discover' It proves that no art is without impact; and no honest art is useless or without function. Therefore all art should not necessarily be polit art or some expressionistic symbols with belligerent overtones. Art should not always have to scream at you, or shout blood and depression. Some of what some unlearned critics and uninformed patrons, and even artists, see as pedestrian, ordinary, and lacking in function and purpose, are really treasure houses of elixir, and soothing balms for the soul. I seriously think this form of art usage should now be seen, not as an alternative, which will be most nave. Rather, as a complement to orthodox medical science, and consciously applied, by enlightened or trained experts, in helping patients.Certainly, a very pungent and provocative message in a piece of art aimed at social commentary will not be healthy viewing for an executive just coming home after a hectic day at work, and in the traffic. Such a person should rather relax in front of a serene and tranquil picture. It definitely will help relax the nerves as well as the blood pressure. Some of these kinds of pictures will include ' nature, country landscapes, seascapes, rhythmic abstractions or what one might call 'painted music', and related concepts. On the other hand however, the very vocal and sobering pictures can be applied to impact positively on the mind and even body of that other person who is virtually on the edge and about to 'tip over' due to persecution, affliction or even depression. This will be to enable the person stop to think and reflect. Even in certain climes a unique form or approach to art therapy has been developed in the way of therapeutic use of art making. Within this school of thought a professional relationship with art by people who experience illness, trauma, or challenges in living and those who seek personal development is emphasised. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others to cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences; enhance cognitive abilities; and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art.So we discover, like we have usually seen in and around some of our homes that the bedroom and living room for instance must have their kinds of art. The open spaces and parks have theirs as well. The therapeutic effect of art is so evident by the time you come to consider the reasons and purpose for the application of child art concepts on the walls and classrooms of nursery schools, and places of worship. Thus sobering pictures of saints, the crucifixion and visions, etc, are in themselves instruments for enhancing health by spiritual insight. All of these undoubtedly can be consciously applied to achieve an effectual soul and body harmony once the mind has been adequately penetrated. Out of our sub-conscious we have applied art therapy in so many aspects of our lives, may be by just following certain laid down rules and regulations. But let us now consciously heal ourselves with art by applying the right ones at the right time and place as we rightly discover, recognise and appreciate this hidden noble and divine functions and quality of art.' Nwanguma wrote throughChiaroscuroartworld.blogspot.com
Click here to read full news..
