Art is Life’s Mirror

If you ever find yourself feeling as though your interest in a hobby or craft is a waste of time, consider that some of the most accomplished people in the world have been “dabblers.” President George W. Bush and Winston Churchill (no relation) are examples of two world leaders who also made time to create.

Paintings, sculpture, drawings and photography are all visual records of a life and a moment in time. Our earliest understanding of ancient people came from their creative markings and their buildings and artifacts. Art reaffirms us as people, with feelings and connections that are universal. Not to be trite, but “a picture paints a thousand words,” resonates on so many levels because it is about the power of art as a communications tool but more purely as a means of personal expression.

While marketing is about message above all else, we rely on the power of the visual to connect with our audiences. We try to find ways to bridge complex topics by using metaphor - none more powerful than visual ones. Graphic design, video, film are all art forms that we depend on for our information and our entertainment. People are so exhausted by the deluge of modern day facts and statistics that we employ art and design as a way to cut through the noise and engage with potential customers.

As an aside, a recent painting by Winston Churchill was recently auctioned for $11.5 million. It had been a gift to President Franklin D. Roosevelt from the Prime Minister, and later made its way to other auspicious households. It is a fascinating side story to 20th century history, "Tower of Koutoubia Mosque," was painted by Winston Churchill and is a sunset scene in Marrakech, Morroco. If you’re interested in reading more about Sir Winston, check out the highly regarded biography Churchill: Walking with Destiny by Andrew Roberts.