AAA: Ask an Artist

Imagine this: You’re at an art opening, sipping a glass of wine and admiring the various paintings. The artist is introduced to you, and you offer a genuine compliment on their work. A few pleasantries later and the air grows thick with silence. How do you bridge that gap? How do you show genuine interest in the artist's work? We’ve compiled a guide to asking artists thoughtful questions about their artwork. 

To encourage more engaging and productive conversations between collectors and artists, Peggy has recently launched the commenting feature on the app. You can now comment on every artwork on Peggy (the artist will get a notification!). Head to the app to leave a compliment, or use this guide to brainstorm some questions to ask your favourite Peggy artist! 

Take a step back

Before you jump into asking questions, take a minute to try and understand what you're looking at. Understanding art can be as simple as noticing what you see. What are the most prominent colours used? What material is used? Does it remind you of historical artwork? The first step in engaging with an artist about their work is to invest time in understanding it. Glance at the artwork, delve into its intricacies, and let it speak to you. Consider its form, colour, theme, and emotions it evokes.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." Instead, frame open-ended questions. For instance, instead of asking, “Is this painting inspired by nature?” you might ask, “What inspired you to choose these vibrant colours and textures?”

Respect Their Process

Even if you don't understand or like a piece, keep judgment out of your comments and questions. Every artist's process is personal. Instead of assuming or judging, express genuine curiosity. Instead of saying, “I bet this took you just an hour,” (rude!) consider asking, “How long did it take you to complete this piece, and what challenges did you face?” (curious!). 

Inquire About Techniques

Showing interest in an artist’s technique can be incredibly validating for them. Try questions like, “What materials did you use to achieve this effect?” or “How did you decide on this particular style for this piece?”

Connect On An Emotional Level

Art is, at its core, an expression of emotion. Connecting on an emotional level allows the artist to share their narrative. Questions like “What emotions were you trying to convey here?” or “How do you hope viewers feel when looking at this?” can foster more profound understanding.

The Art of Listening

Remember, once you've asked your question, it’s essential to listen. Take in the artist's words, appreciate their perspective, and respond with empathy. It’s this back-and-forth exchange that enriches the conversation.

Thoughtful questions bridge the gap between appreciation and understanding. They reflect genuine interest, respect the artist's craft, and often lead to enlightening conversations. Next time you’re at an art event—or browsing Peggy—arm yourself with these tips and delve deeper into the art world.

Here are a few general questions you can ask to get you started with engaging in the world of art: 

• What are the themes you're exploring in this piece?
• How has your personal journey or experiences influenced this work?
• What artists or movements have had the most impact on your approach to art?
• Are there any new techniques you're experimenting with in your current works?
• What’s next for you—are you working on any other series you’re excited about?