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Thoughts on Sight Unseen

Catherine Kim's picture

Visual art denotes a visual experience, but I find it fascinating that in Georgina Kleege's perspective, visual art should also be a tactile experience. Learning from her father's experience as a sculptor, Kleege explains that she understands not only the visual appeal of art, but also the craftsmanship and the artistry put into the work. Most people view art as sacred and not meant to be touched or else risk damage. However, Kleege's father puts forward an interesting point about the value of art: "If the craft is sound it should stand up to touching." (Kleege 149). Additionally, Kleege continues to showcase the close relationship between touch and sight when describing her drawing process of a cup; her eyes and her hands work side by side to piece together an object that she can see, understand, and sketch.