On a recent visit to the Cleveland Museum of Art, we embarked on a docent tour. The Tuesday morning visit to the Cleveland Museum of Art had been planned. Like our past visit, we would see some of the general museum along with the special exhibit. On our way there, we realized we did not have our parking tickets. Upon booking the parking ticket, there is an option to book other events. A docent tour was to begin shortly after our arrival. I asked, “should we do the guided tour?” A “yes” was exclaimed by the 8 year old in the backseat. And that is how we found ourselves on the docent tour that morning.
Cleveland Museum of Art. Photo by: Lance Anderson
It was not apparent what type of art would be of focus on the tour but I always learn something new from a docent. Our docent, Paul, began with a great introduction to art. "What is art?”. He shared, art is something made by a human being. Art is not just beautiful things. There is beauty in nature but art is defined as being made by another being.
The curator’s job is to offer perspective of an art piece. This can be incredibly helpful to understanding art further. But Paul implores us to begin with our own curiosity before turning towards the curator's perspective. This is the practice of mindfulness - our own curiosity, reflections and tuning into our senses.
How to practice mindfulness through art?
Photo Credit: Birmingham Museums Trust
See the art. Begin by looking at the art, every detail. Take time to examine every aspect of it.
Reflect. What do you see?
Reflect. How does it make you feel?
Reflect. What else do you notice?
Reflect. Are there symbols, colors that are evident?
When someone asks us these questions, they are also asking us to practice present moment awareness. They are asking us to focus on this moment right now on the art.
These questions also motivate one to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is becoming aware of what is around us (the art) and what is inside us (our reflections and feelings) while practicing kindness and non-judgement (this art is good or bad). Before we decide if you like it or not, can you practice non-judgement. Taking time to see, feel, accept what is without judgement.
It is after we take time to make our own reflections and still wonder about the meaning, background or other take on a piece, then turn to the curator’s notes.
The next time you see art (in a museum or a mural on the street), consider what your approach will be. Will you take time to pause, to reflect to see, feel and be present? Perhaps you have been practicing art through mindfulness already. Enjoy the practice!