Sometimes it takes time away from the usual to see the unusual. On a recent cruise (Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas), I was struck by the beauty of the ship. American architect Louis Sullivan (1856-1924) coined the phrase form follows function. This means that the purpose of a building (or object) should be the starting point for its design. While the Oasis of the Seas was built to carry over 6,400 passengers and 2,000 crew members, a lot of design elements were added to make cruising more elegant, beautiful, and efficient.
Natural Art
Art can be found in a multitude of places. Even the most mundane or natural items, when looked at differently, can express art. For example, clouds exhibit shapes that can be construed as a familiar figure. Trees bend toward the light at unusual angles. Rock formations erode into bridges, spires, or arches.
Art is Necessary
The purpose of works of art may be to communicate ideas, such as in politically, spiritually, or philosophically motivated art; to create a sense of beauty; to explore the nature of perception; for pleasure; or to generate strong emotions. (Wikipedia)
Art, in any form, can affect people’s emotions by enhancing their mood or influencing their thoughts.
While strolling through the ship, see how art enhances the trip through the seas.
A stroll through the shopping area on the ship.
Many sculptures all abound the ship.
Artisans
An Artisan is defined as a person skilled in an applied art; a craftsperson; a person or company that makes a high-quality, distinctive product in small quantities, usually by hand and using traditional methods.
There was a carnival boardwalk on Deck 5 that showed how an artisan carves a large block of wood into a carousel horse. Note the hands of the artisan with the chisel floating above the horse’s unfinished back. Truly a magnificent example of sculpture.
On a shore excursion to Falmouth, Jamaica, I purchased an artisan’s work that I will hang on my porch this summer to remind me of such a wonderful trip.
Tranquility
The spa’s waiting area is meant to be calming and peaceful. The carpet looks like sand. The art in the ceiling’s center, at first glance, looks like a map of the earth. The tree is illuminated like a tree of hope. The wood panels ground the room and the red inserts exhibit life. I felt relaxed even before my massage.
Even the hallway into the casino gets you into the mood for gambling. A red background with slices of glass pieces reminds one of poker chips. Red is an aggressive color, perfect to try your luck.
Take an Adventure
No matter if you travel or stay in your neighborhood, you can find art in the accessories that surround you. These items should bring you joy and thus are important to you. Choosing wall art is personal and should speak to you as to why that particular piece is warranted. If you love a piece of art, you will find a space for it.
Call Premiere Stagers & Realty at 608-345-9396 to help you find joy in the art around you.