Digital BW, The Print

> > The act of creation without an audience is an act of
> > self-gratification.
> 
> The act of creation without an audience is an act of self-expression.

An expression to whom, or what? To oneself (which is what I'm calling an act of self-
gratification)? An imposition of will over materials (which gets druidic)? In my mind, art requires 
communication, and communication is a transmission of something not previously realised, 
connections not made before. In this sense, it is possible to communicate with oneself, but I still 
find this a self absorption.

> > The great beauty of art is
> > that it can impregnate long after the creator is dead.
> 
> The creation of works for our legacy is where the self-gratification
> comes into play. ;-)

That could be an act of self-gratification, but the creator would require the prescience to know 
that the works will both survive, and be seen.

aside: Is this discussion taking place on this list rather than the Fine Art Photo list because of a 
perceived larger audience here?--
Tim Spragens
http://www.borderless-photos.com
&
http://www.borderless-photos.de