Rhythmic Wisdom: Illustrating rhythms of life and art

As we move into mid-summer, the theme of rhythm, under which the ArtPrize at Cathedral Square exhibit is being created, is growing ever more prevalent. The artists with whom we’ve connected all follow a rhythmic beat in the composition, symbolism and configuration of their work. But what about the viewer? How does the understanding of rhythm resonate with the audience?

Let’s start with the basics. Rhythm is defined as a “regular, repeated pattern of sounds or movements” or the recurrence of a formal element (such as a beat or motif). In the case of ArtPrize at Cathedral Square, the theme “HeARTbeat: The Pulse of Art & Life” integrates rhythmic involvement from all walks of life, diverse functionality of the neighborhood, and a pulsing beat of growth for the diocese, the Heartside Neighborhood, the city and ArtPrize itself.

Conventionally, rhythm is measured on daily, weekly, monthly and yearly levels. One’s heartbeat, the generation of new cells, and schedules of sleep, work and socialization are all examples of daily rhythms. Any Michigander can recount the experience of seasonal rhythms through preparation for drastic winters and short-lived summers. Meanwhile, holidays, anniversaries and birthdays are celebrated as parts of yearly rhythmic phases.

Mother Earth has rhythms to follow, too. Although it may not always seem significant, Earth's rhythms grant us the very access to follow our own declared rhythms! Without Earth's recurring rotation, we wouldn't have a grasp of waking and sleeping. Cultural rituals would not prevail without giving reverence to the cosmic rhythms that determine our existence.

As if that isn't thrilling enough, all these observable rhythms emerge in the world of art as method, subject matter, personal affairs, and means of networking.

This leads to the important role of another fundamental element in this experience: the viewer. An audience is identified as a common group of spectators that manifests interest, support, enthusiasm, or similar congruity. There are underlying rhythms that circulate through any audience, as viewers routinely form expectations, interact on the basis of common interests, and develop temporal and spatial schedules to make the best possible use of the experience. These are rhythmic traits of any given assembly of people, especially displayed within a radically versatile event like ArtPrize.

Before assuming things like “it’s impossible to understand art”, “artists and viewers will never see eye to eye”, or “some artwork is better than others”, keep in mind that every person and thing has a role in continuing life’s grand rhythm. If ArtPrize seems like just a trivial social event, remember that every individual decision to take part, from leader to spectator, adds a beat to the cadence of ArtPrize, to the pulse of Grand Rapids, and to the rhythm of life.

So join in, take part, and keep the movement going!