Dr. Vijay Garg
Every time we think about art and its artists, countless images begin to appear in our minds. We start to see the various forms of art—painting, singing, writing, dancing, drama—as unique, excellent, and distinctive. Every work that comes alive through an artist’s hard work and dedication reflects the real world on a canvas or on a stage. When an artist is aware of his moral responsibilities, he becomes capable of bringing about a positive revolution in society through the powerful expression of his senses—without any weapons.
Sometimes he fills the entire canvas with the colours of justice, becoming the voice of the exploited; at other times, his loud cry shakes society awake. It is the spirit of the artist that inspires him to selflessly fill the world with beautiful colours, binding everyone together in harmony and watching them laugh as one. He continues to write in the hope that one day his hopeful words will rise from the pages and merge into society before his own eyes.
An artist who is full of sensitivity is always ready—like a soldier—to keep alive the bright colours of humanity. That is why an artist does not belong to any region or class; he belongs to everyone and treats every person as his own. Even the average person finds relief from life’s complexities in the artist’s world of emotions. This world appears a little better, healthier, and safer.
It often seems that if a person could pause in his ordinary life just long enough to think deeply before every step or decision, then the world of an ordinary human could begin to resemble a meaningful work of art. But the tragic realities of communalism, anger, corruption, and exploitation trouble the artist and his world.
When we try to understand the difference between an ordinary person and an artist, we find that every creation requires immense dedication, study, and hard work—an attempt to rethink life itself. But can this also be considered a version of everyday human experience? If a person deeply immerses himself in every decision, works for the welfare of all, creates harmony, stands for what is right, and dares to call out what is wrong—could he too be called an artist?
Every person feels attracted to the world of art at some point, but a common question arises: how can the life of an average person, who struggles to meet basic needs, become the subject of art? If the necessities of life were supported by skill, turned into a profession, or strengthened through exceptional talent or other sources of income, then perhaps this could be imagined.
Yet, contrary to this belief, art often emerges even in lives full of difficulties—where a little inner moisture still remains, continuously nourishing one’s goodness. It is impossible to carve any meaningful art without empathy, which is why every creation carries within it the journey of the artist’s experiences. The deeper an artist goes into life, the more refined his work becomes.
It is possible that art does not improve the economic condition of every person, but it is certain that artistic thinking helps us survive all circumstances. Art originates in the mind long before it takes form on canvas, stage, or paper. Artistic thinking makes us stronger, fairer, and healthier. It has a powerful impact on almost every aspect of our lives.
Through artistic thinking, we distance ourselves from distractions and return to our true nature. We begin to understand things deeply, using our senses in the right way. Art frees us from many emotional burdens. It allows us to love openly, cry openly, express ourselves fearlessly, and embrace those real feelings that we often hide.
The most beautiful and precious gift that art gives us is a shared space—an opportunity to sit together, look in the same direction, feel together, learn together, enjoy together, and express gratitude. Even in a world that shines only on the surface, art creates a small, secure corner for our senses.
(Note: Dr. Vijay Garg, Retired Principal, Malout, Punjab)
