What Is an Artist?

According to the Princeton online dictionary, an artist is "a person whose creative work shows sensitivity and imagination." Merriam-Webster offers a few definitions of the word, from "one skilled or versed in learned arts" to "one who is adept at something." Often, the word "artist" is reserved for a person who paints or creates some form of visual art. When coupled with a modifier, such as performing artist or recording artist, the definition is clearer. Common among all definitions is that an artist is a person who excels at what she does and evokes feelings and reactions in others.

Purists say that artists create art. The definitions of art can be as far-reaching as the descriptions of those who make it. Art can be painted, sculpted, danced, sung and written. The art of speaking or salesmanship is a recognized achievement. The art of making people feel comfortable can be a welcomed trait in hosts and counselors. While the use of the word "art" often is relegated to that which can be seen, the meaning behind the creativity and skill that goes into the endeavor can easily be translated into many areas.

Many artists are self-proclaimed while others are bestowed the title by followers and admirers. Sir Lawrence Olivier said, "If you're an artist, you've got to prove it." The finished work product or result is the proof of artistry. Wanting to compose a song does not make you a musical artist. Having the desire to put brush to canvas in no way allows you to proclaim yourself an artist. While there may be an artist inside waiting to get out, until the spark is actualized, no art has been created.

When taken out of the context of the visual arts, the designation of artist often refers to someone who has not only created something but has excelled at the activity. A con artist is one who is very good at making people do what he wants despite the action's illegal or illogical consequences. A culinary artist is a cook or chef who evokes emotional response with food and typically is recognized with awards and accolades.

Art is often in the eye of the beholder. Walk through any modern art museum and you'll likely hear a patron disparage a picture hanging on the wall with, "That's not art." The term "art" has evolved so that any individual can take claim to criticism and review and the right to proclaim who is an artist and who is not. Watching an arborist quickly climb a tree, an admirer may remark, "There's a real art to that, and that guy is an artist."

The question of what is an artist remains open for debate. Just as each person reserves the right to label something art or not, individuals believe they know art when they see it. Some cling to stereotypes of painters in smocks agonizing over every stroke, starving for attention and sometimes for food. Others see an artist whenever they encounter beauty or extraordinary craftsmanship. Check out any discussion current or past, including the Art News Blog (see Resources), and you'll find just as many reactions to the question as there are people who ponder the answers.