Original Abstract Art 

by Sheryl Keen

Much of art has to do with emotions. Emotions come from the soul. It follows that art can touch the viewer’s soul and puts on display the artist’s own soul. The artwork itself will also have its own soul which is a direct result of what the artist has done and the meaning the viewer places on the work.Putting the soul in an artwork does not happen by chance, it involves being brave in talking about personal experiences, who you are as a human being, and conveying your innermost thoughts. One of the things that is top of mind for me is growth. I am always looking for ways in which to convey this subject in my art. The method of delivery is as important as what I want to say. 



I am talking about growth because I believe I have a growth mindset and I can see myself growing not necessarily in leaps and bounds but incrementally like a plant, hence the leaf, tree, and branches motifs in my work. This is a theme that everyone can relate to in some way. But how do I show you my soul and touch yours at the same time? I try to be as intimate as possible. Growth is a broad theme and can feel generic. I place myself squarely in my artwork so that you can feel me.



“Because Growth is Bushy” is me being honest about how hard the growth process is. Progress, change and renewal does not happen just because I want them to. The work must be done. In a similar way, when we are growing a plant, it must be watered, given the right soil and the necessary amount of sunshine to grow. Growth takes time. I believe honesty in the work is a soul touching experience. The artist and the art lovers inner landscape connect when there is vulnerability. The artist humanity is on display and the viewer brings his own humanity to the experience. 



Sometimes the viewer’s understanding is a little different from my intentions but when you touch someone’s soul there is no limit on the insight that can be garnered from the interaction. If the artwork has its own soul, I have done my job and now the viewer can feel and interpret the work however they choose. When I am honest in my work it helps me to find the answers that I am searching for and can have the same effect on the art lover. In this way, we can start conversations and see our shared humanity in each other.



For my art to mean anything to me or to someone else, I have to be courageous in my work. For me, art is already a soul-searching act. What I find on this expedition is what I should convey to you. Grow or stagnate the choice is ours. “Tree Hugger”, another of my pieces, about growth is about leaning in to the growth and embracing it even though it’s difficult. This revealing of self is how I show my soul through art and touch others. When we can see each others soul; it’s hard not to be touched.