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Visual Language
08-29-2011, 07:54 PM
Yes, I, too am an INTJ visual artist (and have been for over 25 years as a professional).

Likely, I discover too few INTJ visual artists because, well, there are too few INTJs period! (smile)

With so few INTJ artists included in INTJ profiles, I presumed myself an INFJ for years. However, reading the profiles of INFJ artists, I baffle more than relate. I shrug if no one gets the emotional or spiritual aspect of my artwork because, well, I don't put any of that in there. I'm more interested in developing and honing artistic skills.

An avid student of color theory, perspective, value scales, proportion and design principles (such as composition and focal point), I come alive when I see competence in these (which is too infrequently). And, like most INTJ types, my own work never measures up with my standards because I keep bumping up the standards with my (obsurdly) unrealist expectations.

So, I chuckle with empathy to read the struggles of my INTJ art peers who "suffer" perfectionism and who, when attending social functions, pine for some intellectual interaction. However, I've learned to acquire social skills such as restraining a yawn (when overcome with boredom) or offering courteous nods of feined interest (instead of blurting, "Absurd!"). Quite possibly, this is as much a cause for exhaustion when attending social functions as any other, tee.

Curious: What do you other INTJ artists do to make social functions (such as art receptions, exhibit festivals, workshops) more desireable for yourselves? Note: I do these because they enhance my art career and provide networking opportunities for art sales -- otherwise, I choose my reacration according to natural enjoyment.

Paul Siraisi
08-29-2011, 09:26 PM
Check out the visual arts threads in INTJf. Lots of us, it seems.

VictorianKitty
08-31-2011, 02:09 PM
Yep, I'm one too! I've a BFA in Graphic Design and have been working in print and Web design for 15 years. I know what you mean about the perfectionism and perpetually-increasing personal standards...

As for how I cope with public events, I entertain my visual inclinations by dressing to the nines (formal or business, whichever is appropriate) because, being a visual person, I feel more comfortable when I know I look good. I also utilize the polite nod and a lot of "Oh, really?" which extroverts always seem to interpret as genuine interest. ;) I also bring my husband whenever I can, as it gives me a sanctuary when I really need a break from strangers or when I need to express something profound (to me) that no one else will care about. He always "gets it" and has an intelligent and insightful response, so he is a life saver!

Monte314
08-31-2011, 02:35 PM
We all want to excell at our craft, and it can be a struggle to face the inevitability of imperfection.

For me, the visual arts includes not only the classical media, but modern media as well.

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nowt
08-31-2011, 03:42 PM
We all want to excell at our craft, and it can be a struggle to face the inevitability of imperfection.

Out of curiosity, ever do visual art that doesn't qualify as self-deprecatingly or ironically ugly, or rely upon a mathematical equation [like i need to see another fractal] ?

Monte314
08-31-2011, 04:41 PM
Nope! That wouldn't be "art"...

nowt
08-31-2011, 04:53 PM
Nope! That wouldn't be "art"...

Right, then.

BlackMita
08-31-2011, 10:35 PM
I've committed to amateurism at this point. Deliberating a social function to garner non-internet eyes would just make me uncomfortable. A lack of interest in gallery showings or formalized commissions makes it hard to want to competently execute compositions. I use software to crop happenstance 95% of the time. I can count the number of times I've published to the internet on one hand.

Drawing is my cathartic reflex, not my seductive one. I think with less effort, I have more artistry in written persuasion than visual storytelling. There's no refinement to my emotional expression when every part of it depends on brute mimicry and pastiche. I have an archivist instinct and prefer a successful transcribing of an other over broadcasting me. Me? I'm boring... though I do have preferences for things that need to be said, which are so important, they should outlast the sayer. If nobody is nurturing a value I love, I could be moved to compose a series for it, if I was any good at art (not yet).

Visual Language
10-28-2011, 09:34 PM
Wow...I think that's wonderful that your husband provides a refuge (of wit, understanding, humor, intelligence) during public art events. That would certainly make it more rewarding.

I am (finally) beginning to learn how to detect the more intellectually curious and imaginatively active participants at public art receptions.

For example, I look around the room for individuals or couples who are facing the artwork (rather than chattering with their back to the art, juggling a martini). If I notice someone (sober) studying a work of art longer than usual, I simply ask, "What attracts you to this piece?" Most often, I'm rewarded with an insightful and stimulating answer.

However, I can see how you would enjoy a comrade (such as your husband) with whom to swap inside-jokes, profound observations, or telling expressions! (smile)