Past generations employed greater standards of propriety in many ways than our modern American culture dictates. Art was expected to convey not only beauty and meaning, but also nobility, respectfulness, and often an air of something to be achieved. Peaceful contemplation was a frequent theme in portraits, and rolling landscapes filled quiet halls with calming images. Today, artists embrace life’s realities with perhaps more artistic license, bringing a grit and sometimes an unsettling nature to their pieces. These may not always please every art show attendee, but they are truly art, nonetheless.

Art is a creative reflection of life, simply stated, and thus its definition is ambiguous. Perhaps it should remain that way.