The spectacle of Christmas is upon us and there are many ways to make art a part of your celebrations. There are a variety of holiday musical experiences accessible to all. There are reenactments of the “greatest story ever told” that are accessible to all. And of course, thousands of lighting designers emerge to make twinkling streetscapes. Art is vital to the festive experience of the holidays.
Much of my verbiage has been dedicated to the exploration of the value of creativity in the public domain. This week, I hope to offer some reminders on why even these traditional holiday public expressions matter, and how to make art an even bigger part of your own celebrations.
Tradition = Timeless
I think we wrongfully assume that creativity is only about new ideas. This notion neglects to see that truly genius creative expressions are timeless. To understand this, think about the art in pop culture. Pop culture all too often pursues fads, or the moment. Do we still wear bell bottoms, eat TV dinners, or listen to NSYNC? Maybe if we are ironic hipsters, but otherwise, no. The expressions do not hold up to cross-generational standards of beauty.
Traditions on the other hand are tested by the fire of time. We cherish Michelangelo’s 500-year-old statue of David. We delight in the 400-year-old play of Romeo and Juliet. We can always wear black. Likewise, our holiday traditions expose timeless beauty. Whether you are religious or not, the sacred stories of Christmas (peaceful protest against oppressive authority) and Hanukkah (rejoicing in ever-abundant resources) are masterful perspectives on humanity. They are excellent fodder for expression. We therefore have beautiful works of visual art, music, and performance to express timeless experiences that all humanity relates to.
I encourage you to take in the explorations of the tales of goodness that have been passed on for nearly two millenia. Find a professional chorus angelically proclaiming the birth of a peaceful rebel in Handel’s Messiah. Catch the lighting of Baltimore’s 35-foot-tall Menorah in the Inner Harbor. Experience a retelling of the tale of a starry night in Bethlehem during a Christmas eve service. Stroll down the “miracle on 34th street” in Hampden. Join a troupe of carollers in your neighborhood and sing some classics. If nothing else reflect on how art is used to expose the goodness in the world around us.
Art = Great Gifts
Besides an experience, art can play another role during the season. Art can be a fantastic gift. It provides an opportunity to share something you enjoy. Think about giving someone your favorite album, a membership to your favorite museum, or even just your favorite recipe. The gift can also go beyond just the joy it provides. It can be an opportunity to share something very personal.
Consider sharing why the work is important and heighten the connection for your family and friends. Let the receiver know something special about the singer, share the secret cove in the museum, or share the first time you tasted those delicious morsels. Finally, art can provide you an opportunity to say something you may not have known how to say any other way. Print the photo of the two of you sharing an intimate moment. Make a card with construction paper and markers using their favorite colors. Hand-write a personal note. Your creativity is valuable. Distinguish yourself by making something no store could ever carry.
Although I have not hit as hard on social change this week, I hope you consider how art can be part of your Christmas and Holiday season. It truly can make it more meaningful. And it just might create a little change in the world.
