Opinion: Technical Skill in Art Does Not Guarantee Beauty or Emotional Impact

The article argues that technical proficiency in art, particularly realism, has diminished in awe since the invention of the camera, which made realistic representation easily accessible. It suggests that contemporary artists often focus on showcasing technical skills, but this approach can fall flat, lacking emotional resonance. The piece notes that realistic art today may be created by hand, machine, or mixed media, blurring distinctions in technique. It questions the importance of technical correctness in modern times, viewing it as a regression rather than progress. Imperfections in hand-made art, such as slips of the hand, are highlighted as sources of beauty and mystery, echoing Leonard Cohen's idea that 'the light is in the cracks.' The author draws a parallel to music, where technically poor musicians can compose beautiful pieces, while highly skilled ones may produce work that merely showcases knowledge. Viewers are advised not to let technical virtuosity overshadow their enjoyment of visual art, especially painting. Comparisons are made between artists like Carravago and Gustav Klimt, suggesting technical mastery does not necessarily equate to greater beauty or emotional impact. The hope is expressed for a shift away from admiration of hyper-realistic art, such as detailed hair painting, toward appreciation of art that evokes emotional, sensual, or imaginative responses, regardless of technical accuracy.