The Art of Slow Looking: The Hidden Beauty of Abstract Art

Today, I want to chat about something that’s totally changed the way I create and appreciate abstract art: slow looking.

Now, you might be wondering, “What in the world is slow looking?” Well, let me tell you a little story…

My Slow Looking Awakening

Many years back, I was at an art gallery, feeling pretty lost among all the abstract paintings. I mean, I create abstract art myself, but sometimes even I struggle to connect with other artists’ work.

Then, I overheard somebody talking about “slow looking” and how it could transform the way we experience art. Intrigued, I decided to give it a shot.

I picked a painting that caught my eye and spent a good 15 minutes just looking. And let me tell you, it was like putting on a pair of glasses I didn’t know I needed.

Suddenly, I was noticing details, emotions, and stories I’d completely missed at first glance. That’s when I realised: slow looking isn’t just for art critics – it’s a game-changer for all of us who want to truly appreciate abstract art.

What’s the Deal with Slow Looking?

So, what exactly is slow looking?

Simply put, it’s a way of mindful observation that encourages us to spend more time with a piece of art.

Instead of the usual quick glance (studies show most people look at the artwork for just 17 seconds!), slow looking asks us to slow down, take our time and really engage with what we’re seeing.

Think of it as a leisurely exploration of a painting. You’re not rushing through a museum trying to see everything. Instead, you’re taking a deep dive into one piece, letting it speak to you.

It’s all about intentional looking and thoughtful engagement with the artwork.

Why Slow Looking and Abstract Art are a Perfect Match

Now, you might be thinking, “That’s all well and good, but why is slow looking especially important for abstract art?”

Great question. Here’s the deal:

1. Abstract art can be confusing at first glance. Slow looking gives you time to move past that initial “Huh?” moment.
2. There’s often more to abstract art than meets the eye. Patient observation helps you uncover hidden patterns, textures and emotions.
3. Abstract art invites personal interpretation. Slow looking allows you to develop your own unique connection with the piece.

How Slow Looking Changed My Art Game?

Let me share a little secret: slow looking didn’t just change how I view art – it transformed how I create it.

When I started practising slow looking regularly, I found myself paying more attention to the subtleties in my own work. I began experimenting with layering colours in new ways and playing with textures I’d never considered before.

One time, I was working on a piece I thought was finished. But after some deliberate viewing, I realised it needed something more.

I ended up adding a series of barely visible lines that tied the whole composition together. Without slow looking, I might have missed that crucial detail.

Slow Art Day: When Museums Embrace the Power of Looking

Now, you might think slow looking is just something for us artsy folks, but guess what? Even museums are getting in on the action. Enter Slow Art Day, an annual global event that’s changing the way we experience art in public spaces.

Slow Art Day was started back in 2009 by Phil Terry and it’s been growing ever since. The concept is simple: on one day each year (usually in April), museums and galleries around the world invite visitors to spend quality time with a handful of artworks.

We’re talking 5 to 10 minutes per piece – a far cry from the usual rush through exhibitions!

Why is this such a big deal for museums? Well, let me break it down for you:

1. Deeper Engagement: By encouraging visitors to slow down, museums are helping people form stronger connections with art. It’s like turning every visitor into a mini-art critic.
2. Accessibility: Slow Art Day shows that you don’t need an art degree to appreciate complex works. It’s all about your personal experience and what you see.
3. Repeat Visitors: When people have meaningful experiences in museums, they’re more likely to come back. It’s a win-win.
4. Community Building: Many Slow Art Day events include group discussions after the viewing. It’s a great way for art lovers to connect and share perspectives.
5. Changing Perceptions: For some folks, museums can feel intimidating or boring. Slow Art Day helps change that by making art viewing more approachable and enjoyable.

I remember my first Slow Art Day experience at a local museum. They had us look at an abstract piece for 10 minutes – at first, I thought it would feel like an eternity. But you know what? Those 10 minutes flew by and I saw things in that painting I never would have noticed otherwise.

If you haven’t participated in a Slow Art Day event yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s usually held in April, so keep an eye out for events at your local museums and galleries.

Who knows? You might just fall in love with a piece of abstract art you would’ve walked right past before.

And even if you can’t make it to an official event, why not create your own slow art day at home? Pick a few pieces you love (or are puzzled by), set aside some time and dive into the world of slow looking.

Trust me, your perspective on art – and maybe even the world – might just shift a little.

Ready to Give Slow Looking a Try?

Alright, I’ve convinced you to give slow looking a shot, right?

Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

1. Choose an abstract piece that catches your eye. I’ve included some of my abstract paintings in this blog. Have a look and take your time.
2. Set aside at least 10-15 minutes. Trust me, time flies when you’re in the zone.
3. Start with the basics: What colours do you see? Are there any shapes or forms that stand out?
4. Look closer: Can you spot any interesting shapes or brushstrokes?
5. Step back: How does the composition feel as a whole?
6. Reflect: What emotions or thoughts come up as you look at the piece?

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do this. The key is to take your time and stay open to whatever you might discover.

From Confusion to Connection: My Slow Looking Journey

I’ll be honest – when I first started practising slow looking, I felt a bit silly. I mean, who spends 15 minutes staring at a bunch of colours and shapes? But then something magical happened.

I was at an exhibition, looking at this huge abstract canvas. At first, it just seemed like a mess of red and blue swirls. But as I kept looking, really looking, I started to feel a sense of movement, like waves crashing against a shore. Suddenly, the painting wasn’t just colours anymore – it was alive with emotion and energy.

That’s the beauty of slow looking and abstract art. It’s not about “getting it” right away. It’s about giving yourself the time and space to connect with the artwork on a deeper level.

Bringing Slow Looking into Your World

The cool thing about slow looking is that you can practise it anywhere. Sure, it’s great in museums and galleries, but why not try it with the abstract art prints hanging in your living room? Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even slowly look at the abstract patterns in nature or city scenes.

I spend a lot of time just looking at my abstract paintings during the time I make them and also after.

It’s amazing how many different stories each painting would tell me each time I look at it. It’s also so therapeutic just to sit and look at the paintings with a cup of coffee and my favourite music playing.

This personal ritual of mine really embodies the essence of slow looking – it’s not just about observation, but about creating a whole experience that engages your senses and allows for deep reflection.

Diving Deeper: The Many Facets of Abstract Art

You know, slow looking is just one piece of the abstract art puzzle. Over the years, I’ve become fascinated by how abstract art impacts our lives in so many ways. That’s why I’ve written over 100 blog posts on my website, exploring abstract art beyond its aesthetic beauty.

These posts dive into the bigger effects of abstract art, both from the creator’s perspective and the viewer’s. If you’re curious to learn more, here are some topics I’ve covered:

– Painting Your Feelings: How abstract art can be a powerful tool for emotional expression.

– Storytelling Through Abstract Painting: Believe it or not, even non-representational art can tell compelling stories!

– Abstract Art is More than Decoration: Exploring the deeper significance of abstract pieces in our lives.

– Abstract Art in Interior Design: How abstract works can transform living spaces.

– The Influence of Abstract Art on Culture: The surprising ways abstract art shapes our world.

– Creating Art is a Journey of Self-discovery: My personal experiences with growth through art.

– Abstract Art Therapy: The healing power of creating and viewing abstract art.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Each of these topics offers a unique lens through which we can appreciate and understand abstract art. When combined with the practice of slow looking, they can open up a whole new world of artistic appreciation.

Have a look at these posts and explore the ones that resonate with you.

Who knows? You might discover a whole new dimension to your art experience.

The Slow Revolution: Why Slowing Down is Catching On

You know, slow looking isn’t just an isolated trend in the art world.

It’s actually part of a much bigger movement that’s all about pumping the brakes on our fast-paced lives.

Let’s take a quick (or should I say slow) tour through some other “slow” movements and see how they all connect.

Slow Food: Savouring Every Bite

Just like slow looking asks us to spend more time with art, the slow food movement encourages us to be more mindful about what we eat.

It’s about choosing local, sustainable ingredients and really appreciating the flavours and textures of our meals. Sound familiar? It’s the culinary equivalent of noticing the subtle brushstrokes in an abstract painting.

Slow Living: Finding Balance in a Busy World

Slow living is all about prioritising what truly matters and finding a more balanced, fulfilling way of life.

It’s about quality over quantity, just like how slow looking values depth of experience over the number of artworks viewed.

Slow Education: Learning at Your Own Pace

In education, there’s a growing recognition that not everyone learns at the same speed.

Slow education emphasises deep understanding over rote memorisation. It’s like spending 15 minutes with one painting instead of rushing through a whole gallery.

The Benefits of Slowing Down

So why is everyone jumping on the slow bandwagon? Here are a few reasons:

1. Reduced Stress: When we slow down, we give ourselves time to breathe and process our experiences, whether that’s appreciating art or enjoying a home-cooked meal.
2. Increased Mindfulness: Slowing down helps us stay present in the moment, leading to richer experiences and memories.
3. Improved Quality: Whether it’s art, food or education, taking our time often leads to better outcomes and deeper appreciation.
4. Enhanced Creativity: When we’re not rushing, our minds have space to wander and make new connections. That’s great news for us artists.
5. Better Relationships: Slowing down allows us to be more present with others, leading to stronger connections.

In my own life, embracing slow looking has had a ripple effect.

I find myself savouring my morning coffee more, taking leisurely walks to notice the shapes and colours in nature and even approaching my art-making with more patience and curiosity.

So the next time you’re tempted to rush through your day, remember the slow looking approach.

Whether you’re creating art, enjoying a meal or just going about your daily life, try slowing down. You might be surprised at what you discover when you take the time to really look, listen and feel.

Wrapping It Up: The Power of Slow Looking

So, here’s the bottom line: slow looking isn’t just about spending more time with art.

It’s about developing a deeper appreciation for the world around us. It’s about slowing down in a world that’s always rushing. And when it comes to abstract art, it’s about discovering beauty and meaning in the unexpected.

Slow looking can be an amazing experience. Try it. Take some time this week to really look at an abstract piece.

And I’d love to hear about your experience. Drop a comment below.

Who knows? You might just discover a whole new way of seeing the world.

Happy slow looking, everyone.