Artists are often driven by a desire to uncover hidden potential of the human mind and to use that potential to manifest new forms of self expression. We seek to transcend the limitations of ordinary consciousness and tap into the vast, untapped potential of the unconscious. But what is ordinary consciousness and why is it so important to push its boundaries?
Ordinary consciousness refers to the state of being aware of our surroundings and our own thoughts and feelings. It is the part of our mind that is responsible for our everyday perceptions, thoughts, and actions. While ordinary consciousness serves an important purpose, it can also be limiting as it is often shaped by our habitual patterns of thinking and behaving.
The role of art in expanding consciousness
This is where art comes in. Art can serve as a tool for self-exploration and self-discovery, helping us to go beyond the boundaries of ordinary consciousness and access deeper levels of awareness. By using various techniques, we can quiet the mind and create space for new insights and perspectives to emerge.
Techniques for pushing the boundaries of ordinary consciousness through art
One technique for pushing the boundaries of ordinary consciousness through visual art is to experiment with different mediums and techniques. This can involve trying out new materials, such as unusual paint pigments or unconventional tools, or exploring different techniques, like using found objects in collage or incorporating mixed media into a piece. Experimenting with new methods of creating art can help to break down creative blocks and open up new avenues for exploration.
Another technique is to work with the unconscious mind. This can be done through the use of symbols, archetypes, and the exploration of personal mythology. These elements can tap into deeper levels of the psyche. Accessing the unconscious mind can be done in a variety of ways. Two of my favorite techniques are lucid dreaming, which involves becoming aware that you are dreaming while still in the dream state, and hypnagogia, which refers to the state of consciousness between wakefulness and sleep.
Incorporating elements of mathematics, geometry, and physics into visual art can also be an effective way to push the boundaries of ordinary consciousness. These elements can create a sense of order and structure, while also allowing for the possibility of infinite exploration and discovery.
Working with the concept of non-objective art is also a powerful technique, by focusing on the formal elements of the art such as color, shape, line, texture, and composition. This can help to create a sense of abstraction and open up new possibilities for self-expression.
Meditation, tai chi, qi-gong, and other mind-body practices can also be incorporated into the creative process to help quiet the mind and tap into deeper levels of consciousness. This can lead to new insights and a greater understanding of the creative process.
In my creative process, I often use a combination of these techniques to push the boundaries of ordinary consciousness and create unique and meaningful works of art.
The benefits of expanding consciousness through art
Pushing the boundaries of ordinary consciousness through art can lead to a range of benefits, both for the artist and for the viewer. Some of the benefits of expanding consciousness through art include:
- Increased creativity and self-expression: By accessing deeper levels of consciousness, we can tap into a greater range of creative ideas and find new ways of expressing ourselves.
- Greater understanding of the self and the world: Exploring the unconscious mind can help us gain a deeper understanding of our own thoughts, feelings, and motivations, as well as the underlying patterns and structures of the world around us.
- Enhanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities: Accessing the unconscious mind can provide a wealth of new insights and perspectives that can help us approach problems in creative and innovative ways.
- Personal growth and transformation: The process of self-exploration through art can help us gain a greater understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, leading to personal growth and transformation.
- Improved mental and emotional well-being: Exploring the unconscious mind can help us better understand and cope with our emotions, leading to improved mental and emotional well-being.
- A sense of connection and meaning: The process of creating art can help us feel more connected to ourselves, others, and the world around us, and can provide a sense of meaning and purpose.
Examples of artists who have used their art to explore deeper levels of consciousness
Some examples of artists who have used their art to explore deeper levels of consciousness include the Surrealist artists, such as Salvador Dali and Max Ernst, who were inspired by the power of the unconscious mind and used dreamlike imagery and irrational elements in their art. The Surrealists believed that accessing the unconscious mind could unlock the creative potential of the artist and bring about a deeper understanding of the world.
Another example is the Abstract Expressionist artists, such as Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning, who used their art to explore the inner psyche and emotions. These artists used gestural brushstrokes and drips to create expressive and intuitive works that reflected their inner states of being.
There are also many contemporary artists who use art as a means of self-discovery and transformation. One such artist is Yayoi Kusama, known for her immersive installations and paintings featuring repetitive patterns and dot motifs. Kusama’s work often reflects her own struggles with mental illness and her desire to escape from the limitations of ordinary consciousness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, art has the power to push the boundaries of ordinary consciousness and access deeper levels of awareness. With a bit of effort, we can tap into the vast potential of the unconscious mind and bring about personal growth and transformation. So, the next time you create art, consider exploring techniques that can help you go beyond the limits of ordinary consciousness and access new levels of inspiration and creativity. The possibilities are endless, and the journey of self-discovery and self-expression through art is one that can bring about endless growth and fulfillment.