“I see why they don’t worry about anybody breaking in here. There’s nothing worth stealing.” I was shocked when I heard those words from a gentleman standing near me, but I did have to smile. I’m guessing a lot of people would agree with him.

I was strolling through the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, thoroughly enjoying the unusual exhibits. The Walker is well known for its modern approach to the cultural scene, and while I love primitive and folk art, I find that modern art gives me cause to contemplate hidden meanings or smile at outrageous (in my opinion) works.

My first art history classes introduced me to cave drawings, Greek statues, European cathedrals, realism, cubism, uses of color in a variety of styles, modern architecture, totem poles and many other forms of art by indigenous peoples.

When I became more selective in the classes I was taking, I learned to love Matisse’s paper cutouts and the fact that when he was too ill to paint, he could still cut paper shapes while lying in bed. Later I discovered Thomas McNight’s paintings of interior scenes with windows and doors open to the outside world. In each of his paintings there is a half empty (or half full) coffee cup or an open book on a table looking as if someone just stepped out of the room. I find myself wanting to settle on the sofa, continue reading the book and finish the coffee. It’s as if his paintings invite me in to a comfortable place.

At the Albert Lea Art Center recently, we were talking about upcoming exhibits and different styles of art work, and the question was asked, “What exactly does ‘art’ mean?” Wow!

My American Heritage Dictionary says, “The conscious production or arrangement of sounds, colors, forms, movements, or other elements in a manner that affects the sense of beauty; specifically, the production of the beautiful in a graphic or plastic medium.” I tend to agree, except for the “conscious” part. I believe that truly great works of art involve an element of soul — reaching into our heart and finding the gift that lives there.

Another recent group discussion revolved around art in our everyday lives. I was enjoying an unusual sculptural shape resting on an end table and then discovered that it was a water bottle brought in by one of the retreat participants. We laughed and then had a fun conversation about how art is all around us. It is a part of everything we do. We had a lively discussion about a possible gallery show of “Every Day Art.”

It seems that most people in our Southern Minnesota/Northern Iowa area, the area served by the Albert Lea Art Center, prefer realistic, wild life, and representational art. I’m guessing that there are also people out there who enjoy more abstract styles, although maybe wouldn’t want to live with them.

What is your favorite style of art? How do you enjoy it? Do you wear it — as in jewelry? Do you look at it — as in the painting of mallards on your family room wall? Do you listen to it — as in classical music or rock ‘n roll? Do you act, tell stories, write? Do you enjoy square dancing or doing the polka? Do you love the historic architecture in downtown Albert Lea? Do you have an interesting design on the fender of your motorcycle? Or is there an Egyptian temple tapestry in your den?

An instructor in one of my painting classes once told his students, “A laborer works with his hands. A skilled craftsman works with his hands and his head, and an artist works with his hands, his head, and his heart.”

Have you talked to an artist today? If not, you will find them to be diverse, friendly, open to new ideas, and all-around great people to hang out with. What kind of art do they like? It really doesn’t matter.

Our preferences are as unique as we are. That’s what makes the art world so great.

I do believe that we can be inspired or moved by any of the arts — paintings, music, sculpture, drama, architecture, or literature. I hope that you are finding a place for it in your life, and that you recognize its value as a part of what makes your home into your haven and your life more content.

Bev Jackson Cotter is a member of the Albert Lea Art Center which is showing the work of Tieta Amberg of Bricelyn throughout the month of June. Her work is described as “Visions Through A Stained Glass Window.”