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evien-stark · 4 years

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✧I Need You✧ Chapter 178

Stocks dropped the next day. Nothing detrimental, but even one or two points never felt good. It was hard to explain why, too. And explain you had to, as you and Tony sat in an uncomfortable room with the Board. You weren’t scared of those people, and they couldn’t demand much of either of you. But they wanted to know what was going on. And maybe more importantly, what the two of you were planning on doing about it. If you even could.

The Senate meeting had ended in your favor, so you’d thought. It was hard to understand why the public had had their confidence shaken. Maybe Wenham was more trouble than you originally thought. But still not a problem you couldn’t overcome, something you told the Board very strongly. And while they had their shortsightedness set on Tony for some reason, as he bore the brunt of their questions despite it being your show at the hearing, you didn’t feel bad at all for… influencing them. Just a little. Just enough to quell the heat.

Just enough to get them to back off of him and leave feeling like everything was under control. It was, after all. This was certainly nothing you couldn’t overcome. A drop in the bucket. The next move, in fact, was easy enough to determine. If the public at large didn’t like the thought of you or any of the other Avengers being on trial for what had happened, you’d distract them with something else. Something new and exciting and shiny. Something about legacy. Something about improving the world you were still trying to clean up.

Luckily for you and Tony, you’d just restarted the discussion about scholarships and grants. It was nice to have an easy ace in your back pocket for once. Stark Industries called for a presser three days after the senate hearing. The room was packed.

“Tony and I are pleased to announce the initiative stages of our new grant under the banner of the September Foundation. We are looking to help bolster the dreams of students who want a better and brighter future not only for themselves but for the world. We’re targeting promising young students who have been curtailed by poor budget restrictions from public schools. Kids who need help the most and often don’t get it. Kids who are boxed out of getting scholarships that they desperately need because they’re not from a connected background or not athletically inclined.

Kids who then have to turn to predatory loan systems that keep them bogged down in messes so great, their dreams of the future often get put on hold while they dig themselves out of debt. Stark Industries is aiming to help shape the future through kids just like that. We are in the beginning phases right now, and invite you to take a look on our website for more information. In addition to this, the pilot program for our detailed internships was an astounding success, and we’re looking to expand that program again. We’ll be looking for well qualified individuals with a taste for businesses and sciences who want hands-on experience in multiple fields.

Tony and I will take a few questions.”

Probably a mistake. Usually always a mistake, to take any sort of questions at any sort of media event. But you had to do it for this one. And while most reporters kept their questions centered and focused on this exciting new thing Stark Industries was promoting, a few skewed towards recent events. Telling them that you’d already made a statement- several in fact- wasn’t enough for them. And you knew if you didn’t cut the meeting, it’d devolve completely into Sokovia and Avengers and Senate hearing talks. So you thanked them for their time, and tried to leave.

It would have been smart to disappear upstairs where no one could bother the both of you. But you had places to be immediately after. So down onto the front steps the both of you descended, while other news outlets were littered out along the sidewalk, waiting for this exact appearance. Happy was waiting with the car door open, Tony had his arm around you, the other one waving off microphones shoved in either of your direction.

It was also a mistake- so many made today- to let Tony escort you into the back seat first. Because he was two seconds from getting in so the both of you could leave, and a question from a feisty reporter really hit its mark- “Mr. Stark! Can you comment on the public’s fear of the Hulk? Where is Bruce Banner now? Do you think he should be imprisoned for being so dangerous?”

Uselessly you reached up to try and get a hold of his arm, but he’d already turned towards the crowd. A fire had lit up inside him. “A comment? My comment is that those concerns are baseless and wholly irresponsible. You’re talking about an esteemed member of the scientific community- and a hero. Bruce Banner has made it a mission to save lives. Usually at the risk of his own. Anyone willing to try and cut him down to help their own narrow-minded view of the world isn’t even worth the ink you’re going to use to print this headline.”

A real gotcha moment. Tony had realized it too little too late. But more realistically, he probably didn’t care. After saying his piece, after defending his friend, he did what he always did. Mugged for the cameras flashing in his face to show just how much that hadn’t affected him. Threw up a peace sign. And then got into the car. Happy was quick pulling off the sidewalk.

You reached over, uncurling Tony’s fingers from their tight fisted hold. He relaxed, but only slightly. It was a stupid question to ask, but there was only one reason he’d blow up like that over a question that was at this point standard. Shouted constantly. “No hits on Bruce yet?”

His head dropped in a small shake. “Got some on identical wreckage. Banda Sea. If Hulk went down there, he had to swim somewhere. We just don’t know where yet.” Tony would never give this up. No matter what happiness the two of you were trying to earn, in quiet moments alone you knew he was still looking for Bruce.

The information was so scattered. Hulk had taken off in the Quinjet for some reason. And now Tony thought he’d crashed it? Maybe more likely it had run out of fuel and just went down. But if that was the case, Bruce had surely survived. It seemed like the Hulk was almost immortal, sometimes… you had high hopes that he’d found his way to whatever area was nearest. Maybe had turned back into Bruce… You soothed your fingers over Tony’s palm. “We’ll find him.”

“Depends on how much he wants to stay gone.” There was a sure defeat etched in Tony’s heart about this. He and Bruce had always been close. This was a tough loss to swallow.

“At least we know he’s alive.” You were sure about this. Tony nodded, so he must have agreed. “Alive and…” He sighed slowly. “Out there. Somewhere.”

“He’ll come back.” Reaching up, you touched the side of Tony’s face, turning him your way. Gently you removed his tinted lenses, just looking at him for a long time. “He might just need time to himself. You know how he is.”

“He’ll think himself into a hole.” Tony understood this because… he was the same way.

“I know. But when he’s ready for help getting out of it, he’ll go to you.” This you knew in your heart. When Bruce had come to his senses and realized he wasn’t getting anywhere by himself, he’d come back to Tony. One of the only people on this planet that had treated him with such care and kindness and with such humanity from the moment they’d met. You’d like to think yourself as close, but you knew Tony and Bruce had a special bond.

Your reassurances eased his heart a little. “You really think so?”

“I do.” Bruce would come back. You knew this. It just might not have been for a very long time. “Until then… telling reporters off is one way of lighting the way home for him.” Giving your okay for little spats here and there. It mattered little anyway, Tony would defend Bruce as often as he had to.

But with your blessing, he smiled. “Glad to see we’re on the same page.”

Yep. Exactly as you’d thought. No plans to stop telling off the press.

Because it was Bruce… that was fine.

---

On July 18th, Steve’s updated, new and improved, museum exhibit was set to be live the moment the doors open that morning. But, as you checked the press docket, he wasn’t expected to show up until three, to see the exhibit for himself. Take pictures with guests. And maybe answer some questions- about the exhibit. And nothing else. But you knew better than that.

Steve might not have.

Which was why it wasn’t a surprise when you arrived, fifteen minutes after three PM that day, walking through the Met and its storied pieces, waiting at the back of the crowd with everyone else, finding Steve overwhelmed completely with everything going on around him. Girls were asking for selfies. Boys wanted autographs and arm wrestling matches. Press had questions he didn’t want to answer. Things he struggled to talk about-

Even things that he should have practiced the night before. Things about the exhibit, even. It was a question by a reporter on the left, who asked something about the Howling Commandos- who asked something about James Barnes-

It not only sparked some sense of hurt in Steve, but prompted recognition from you. That missing piece of the puzzle. Something had changed between New York and Sokovia. And its name was Bucky Barnes. The Winter Soldier. The one that had nearly killed you- and beaten the life out of Steve. Bucky. His old friend who had died and been reborn as some Hydra experiment.

That’s what had changed. Steve had gone out looking for him, and as far as you remembered, had come back empty handed.

But how did that translate into his current attitude problems? You were still missing something.

Either way, you finally took pity on Steve and parted the crowd, drawing your arm around his as cameras furiously started flashing as soon as your presence was at the forefront of the crowd. You gave them a little wave, ignoring Steve’s dual surprise and relief. You were there to save him. It couldn’t be any more obvious. “I think we should let Steve enjoy his own exhibit, shall we? He’ll be around later for more autographs, if you’d like. Let’s say around four PM.”

Questions started coming your way- What were you doing here? What did you think of the exhibit? What’s it like fighting alongside a piece of American history? ...is there any relief expected by way of the American government for the Sokovians? You remained collected. “Let’s not take this day away from Captain America.” And promptly after that told them, “No more questions.” Drawing Steve a little tighter in your hold, and urging him away from the questions, the cameras, and all his adoring fans that he seemed to have no idea about.

Flexing your power of persuasion (or perhaps more your status in the world) you easily got staff to keep everyone away and empty out the Cantor Roof Garden. One semi-uncomfortable elevator ride all the way up and you and Steve were allowed a big open space with no one save the people servicing the bar. “How about a drink?”

He wasn’t frowning, but he wasn’t smiling, either. “Sure.” And he didn’t waste any time once you put an order in for two glasses of wine. “What are you doing here?”

“Checking on you. I know these things can be overwhelming.” After dropping a hefty tip for the bartenders, you took hold of your glass and lifted the other one up Steve’s way.

“I appreciate it.” Even this was hesitant. And as the two of you moved away to lounge at the edge of the roof, looking at the city, he continued. “That’s not all though.”

“No.” Agreeing with him, taking a sip of liquid courage. “I thought we should talk.”

“We’ve been doing a lot of that, for someone who’s supposed to be retired.” Finally he found a little humor, smiling around the rim of his glass. Though it disappeared as he made a face. Clearly not a fan of his drink.

“You know me,” sighed out as you rested your elbow on the railing. “Can’t help myself.” You’d had so much you wanted to say, but… now that you were here, you didn’t know how. Or what it was supposed to sound like.

As quick as it came, Steve’s smile warped into something nervous. Apprehension took hold of him. “Why does it feel like I’m in trouble?”

“Look, I don’t know how to say this, so I’m just gonna say it.”

“Okay.”

The both of you were looking at each other. You’d thought you knew how you were going to do this. But there was no good way. “What’s your problem with Tony?”

“What?” Both his brows shot straight up. “Where’s this coming from all of a sudden?”

It wasn’t fair to him, but you stayed focused. Watching him. Looking beyond the image he was presenting. “I feel like I missed every opportunity to address it, but something changed between you two. And I want to know what it is.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He went just slightly defensive, and wasn’t very good at hiding it. Turning away. Expression going just short of stony. “This is ridiculous. You came all the way here to ask me that?”

You tried to be fair to him. You’d quite literally backed him into a corner. Without your protection he’d have to go back downstairs to the rabid mob that wanted to pick him apart. Yet… you had him on the rooftop doing the exact same thing. It made sense for him to be a little more than upset. “I came here because it’s bugging me. And I need to put it to bed.”

“So do that. I don’t have a problem with Stark. I don’t know where you’re gettin’ that from.”

“Every time you could, you put the blame on him for everything. I don’t know what you two argued about at Barton’s ranch, but I know it was bad. After the hearing you went straight for him. And you- Steve you hurled your shield at him. You remember that he’s just a regular person right?”

“It wasn’t at him.”

“Yes it was. I was there.” “So was I. And I think I know what I was doing better than you do.” Just like that the two of you had started arguing. It wasn’t with loud voices, but the pain was all the same. Steve shook his head. “Besides, Stark can take a little bit of heat- and he should have, considering Ultron was his fault.”

“He was my fault, too. And Bruce’s. But you picked on Tony the most about it-”

“What now- I’m some schoolyard bully?”

“Are you?” You finally raised your voice to ask this, edge sharp. The two of you were left staring at one another. Guilt wracked him heavily. “Steve, I don’t know what happened- but stop lying to me. You know I can tell, right?” His eyes dropped, and he set his glass down so he could cross his arms tightly. A storm was consuming him. “You left- to go find Bucky- things were okay then. Then you came back- you told me you had no luck- and suddenly everything was different. Why?”

His heart squeezed, his stomach dropped. These feelings so heavy they penetrated you without much probing. But he was shaking his head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about- and- even if I did- what does it matter? You two left.” There was a certain pain here.

...some sense of betrayal that he’d either hidden very well or hadn’t had time to think about when you’d said you were going. Had he just been stewing this whole time? Was that it? But none of this helped you get to the bottom of what was going on with him.

“We’re still here. I’m still looking out for the team. For you. I still care about you.”

“Right.” He scoffed this out, looking up at you again. “That’s why you came here. Because you care about me.” This kind of smacked you broadside. “You came here to yell at me over Stark. If he has a problem with me he knows where to find me.”

“He doesn’t. In fact, he didn’t want me to come talk to you at all. I do. I have a problem. I don’t like the way you’ve been treating Tony. You’ve changed and I want to know why- I need to know why, Steve, because you’re in charge of a team that needs your guidance. You’re a good man, I’m not questioning that. I don’t think I ever will. I just want to know what’s wrong.” Attacking him wasn’t helping anything. You cared about Steve, and giving him the impression you were picking favorites was not doing you any favors. You were careful as you reached out, putting a hand on his arm. He looked at the connection first and then at you. “Steve. Please. You know I care about you. I love you. You’re my family. Whatever happened, you can tell me.”

If he needed help you would get him help. If he just needed to talk, you would spend hours talking until he was all talked out. Whatever he needed you would get for him. But he had to tell you.

“I-” He was right there. On the edge. He was holding on to something. Something terrible. You felt it now. Only because it was bubbling to the surface now with your pressing. You held your breath. Something awful had happened to Steve when he’d left. Something that was making him act out. Maybe Tony was right. Maybe it had nothing to do with him, and Steve had just picked an easy target to vent his frustrations. “-Buck- he was in there. For just a few seconds. I put the shield down. I let him beat me. Because I knew he was in there. He could’ve killed me. But he saved my life.”

Steve turned away, away from your touch. He settled his arms on the railing, looking out onto the city. You stayed standing in place, though you did hold your arms together. Trying to keep your balance. Steve was very suddenly bleeding emotionally. He needed to talk this out.

So you had to let him.

His head lowered. “He dragged me out of that river. And I spent months trying to get a lead on him. I found all his files. From- ...what Hydra was making him do.” Something clutched in his throat. You watched carefully but impassively. “And I- ...I-...” He stopped himself. Anxiety- dread hit a fever pitch inside him. But perhaps he sensed you were going to ask him to go on, so he pushed through to keep you from doing so. “-Buck is the only family I’ve got left. Except Peggy. And every time I go there… she remembers, and then she doesn’t. She gets startled. My being there hurts her every time. So really it’s just Bucky. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Maybe you’re right. Maybe something has changed. It’s frustrating, not knowing where he is.”

“Steve…” This wasn’t satisfying. You hadn’t come there assuming it would be. But this was… so much less than what you’d been hoping for. “We’re your family, too.”

“Yeah. Sure. But. That part of me. Only he carries that. Only he understands me. I appreciate you- everything you’ve done- you mean a lot to me. But Buck is one of the last pieces of that life I’ll ever have. Maybe you’re right. Maybe I’m taking something out on Tony that I shouldn’t be. I’m sure he’s not holding his breath for an apology.”

You felt your nose wrinkling, your lips pursing. This wasn’t everything. He was holding back. But this was… something. “Does he remind you of Howard or something?” Did that make sense? Steve had one foot in the past and one foot in the present- or the future, to him at least. Maybe where he had lost Bucky and had been unable to retrieve him, where he was lamenting Peggy’s failing faculties-

Tony reminded him of a part of his life that he was grasping at.

A chill swept across him that startled you. His eyes closed. He linked his hands together, and squeezed. It felt like you were holding your breath again. Something dark was swirling inside of Steve. And every part of you rejected it. “Maybe he does. If I’ve been careless- or even aggressive, I’m sorry.”

This was not even close to good enough. He was holding on to something- something important. You knew it now. “No. This is not good enough.”

This surprised him, though, and he looked up suddenly, turning towards you. “What?”

“You’re a bad liar- and omission is still lying. What is it? Just talk to me!”

He got angry again. “I thought that’s what we were doing. I’m sorry what I’m going through isn’t good enough for you.”

“That’s not what I meant. And I can’t ever know what that’s like. And I’m sorry. But there’s something else going on. And if you’re not gonna tell me what it is- I’m going to find out.”

Steve had left to find Bucky. Fine. The last piece of that part of his life. Fine. He’d been unsuccessful and it was hurting him. Fine. But something he’d done while he was out doing that- something he’d seen or come across- He was hiding something.

He squared up to you, facing you completely. Waiting. A small pause while his gaze stayed with yours. “Nothing else is going on.”

Lie. Guilt.

He continued, even through your hard-eyed stare. “And anything else that is- ...it doesn’t have anything to do with you. Or Stark. Not everything does, sorry to say..”

He was never going to give whatever this was up. Never. You knew it now. Maybe it was something deeply personal. Maybe you had no right to it. For all you knew, maybe he’d found Bucky. Gotten into a fight with him. Murdered him by accident. Who even knew? Who knew anymore? You thought you knew Steve but clearly… clearly that had stopped being the case right around the time Bucky had reappeared. Steve was even saying as much right now. To your face.

“That better be true.”

“Or what?”

Was threatening him the right move? Especially if it was something personal to him. Maybe you were going about this the wrong way. You’d wanted to talk to Steve. To tell him to clean up. You’d… sort of done that. Now this had warped into something else. And you weren’t exactly handling it well. “Or I’ll never trust you again.”

You didn’t have to say it, as the both of you stared each other down. He seemed pained again. Hurt that you’d say something like that. Hurt that you didn’t trust him even now.

But. Finally, “Well it is true. So I don’t know what else to tell you.”

---

Tony looked up from the couch as you came in. You stepped out of your heels by the front elevator and walked over to him, falling in a heap, stretching out, putting your head in his lap. He stopped what he was working on, tossing his tablet away to the other end of the couch and ran his fingers through your hair. “Good talk, huh?”

“Oh. Great.” You let out a slow sigh, eyes fluttering closed. “He apologized for the way he was acting, at least.”

“All his sins are forgiven, I’m sure.”

“Mn.” You started drifting just a little with those gentle massages at your scalp.

Tony waited, letting you enjoy yourself for just a little while. But, finally, “What’s your verdict?”

Even now you hadn’t gathered your thoughts. They weren’t anything good, anyway. Blinking up at him, your eyes found his. He waited. Patiently. And eventually… “Steve is having some internal struggles about which life he’d like to live. And as long as Bucky Barnes is at large, they’re never gonna get better.” That was the one thing that was clearest. That was the one thing that made sense.

“...but?” But Tony knew better. Tony knew you. He knew what you’d walked in with- some large, dark cloud. He could feel your hesitation. Your uncertainty.

You just had no idea what to do with it. “That’s not all, I don’t think, but… Steve promised me that was it. Or at the very least he went pretty hard on the idea that it’s none of our business- and has nothing to do with either of us. So. For now I have to believe him.”

Steve wouldn’t open up. There was nothing you could do but take him at his word.

Tony’s head dropped a little in a light nod. “You okay with that?” He reached into his pocket with a small bit of a shuffle, but then settled, taking hold of your left hand so he could slide your engagement ring back into its rightful place.

Did you really trust Steve? Were you going to be able to let this issue rest? That’s what was really being asked of you.

What more could you do? You let yourself be distracted by the fullness of being home with Tony, safe, sound and happy. In the blissful stupor you were tired of grasping for, you made up your mind. “Yeah. I’m okay with that.”

Hopefully that would be the end of it.

#Tony Stark #Tony Stark x Reader #INY Chapter One Hundred Seventy Eight

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thisgalzara-blog · 4 years

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The Art of Overusing the Word Art - (2000 word essay)

Art is almost everywhere now, it’s a huge factor in society; but it’s become so broad that those in so many professions are being labelled as artists. For example; a fine artist, photographer, filmmaker, graphic designer, craftsman, architect, martial artist, inventor, actor, athlete, performer, director, fashion designer and even a doctor to name but a few. Anyone in almost any profession can, if they are one of the best at their job, be called an ‘artist’ and I question whether this undervalues Art as a whole.

To support my essay, I questioned a variety of people whom I know. I chose these particular individuals on the basis that some of them have professional jobs and partake in artistic elements within their profession or hobbies. The aim of this research was to gain insight as to the opinions of those across the spectrum and come to a conclusion as to my initial question. Not all of these people are interested in the arts, some art, some aren’t so there will be a range of views removing the potential bias from my answer.

The question; “Do you think these people should be referred to as an artist?” To which followed the names;

§ Van Gogh? § Leonardo da Vinci? § Henri Cartier-Bresson? § Bruce Lee? § Jamie Oliver? § Michael Jackson? § Tom Hanks? § Hitler? § Mick Stump? § Steven Spielberg? § Ayton Senna? § Sir Christopher Wren? § J.K. Rowling? § Usain Bolt?

I chose these specific examples because I thought these would stir opinion the most. For example, Mick Stump was my art teacher during high school. Does the fact that you don’t know him, not make him an artist? Ayton Senna and Usain Bolt were both at the top of their sporting fields. Are they any different to Bruce Lee who was a martial arts expert and actor at the highest level? Adolf Hitler was actually an artist and his paintings have sold and are treasured by many as collectables. Would people decide he wasn’t an artist as he is predominantly known and disliked for his war atrocities? Interestingly, I noticed that there is a book named “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu. Will anyone think Hitler an ‘artist’ for his war tactics?

Below are the exact responses sent to me. It started a lot of debate. (The responses aren’t in the word count because they’re not my own words.)

……………………………………………………………………………………………

“Well, art is humans expressing their skills so really all of them are artists in their own way but traditionally painters would be classed as artists because they produce in the more common form.”

-Kelly Rix, part time Photographer

“Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, Michael Jackson, Tom Hanks, Mick Stump, Steven Spielberg and J.K Rowling. They’re like performing arts and artists. They produce things using their imagination. For example, J.K Rowling has invented her own world using her imagination and Michael Jackson has come up with his own moves that have influenced others.”

-Dina Aldrich (currently studying Textiles at Loughborough)

"For me, artistry is about the medium you are using - I think it’s about visual imagery for me. Some of the people on the list are not using visual imagery and so we would call them by other names... So, I would say, Artist: Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Cartier-Bresson and Mick Stump. Not artist: Bruce Lee, Jamie Oliver, Michael Jackson, Tom Hanks, Hitler, Spielberg, Ayton Senna, Christopher Wren, JK Rowling and Usain Bolt. There is artistry involved in the other’s, but they are different disciplines. Their main focus is not on visual imagery.”

-Linda Elliott, Vicar

“Vincent Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci are artists, their wonderful works of art can be still seen today. The likes of which we might not see again. They sell at great prices and are held in museums for safety. Jamie Oliver is an artist in the sense he has to make appealing food for his multi-million-pound business. Cakes and desserts especially have to be artistic. Michael Jackson, Tom Hankins and Steven Spielberg are artists because the first two perform to please the eye of the Audience but a film director has to direct and sometimes write the words so he must have an excellent imagination and therefore is a greater artist. Usain Bolt and Aston Senna and J.K Rowling are not artists but people who were taught or trained or practiced reaching their goal. I don’t know who Christopher Wren is do you mean Sir Christopher Wren the architect of St Paul’s Cathedral? If it’s him then yes architects are artists. He created wonderful buildings at a time when we had no computers or heavy machinery, only pen and paper and bare hands. Adolph Hitler was not an artist. He had a mental condition; people were scared of him and his cruelty. He had the gift of speech but at a time when people were not so educated, they followed him like sheep and if they didn’t, he would deal with them. Bruce Lee was not an artist he was trained in martial arts and was famous as a champion before becoming a film star to earn a living in martial art films.”

-Cheryl Bhatia, Nurse

“So... an artist? Well that is in a large part defined by what I have been educated (by parents, school but mostly by society at large) to understand art to be. We have the "traditional" art in the form of painting, sculpture, drawing etc. that you might find in an art gallery. Then you have "performing arts" such as theatre, music etc. And then there are others on your list who fit into a greyer area where people may disagree over whether they are artists or not - authors, politicians, racing drivers etc. So, from your list... artists: Van Gogh Da Vinci Cartier-Bresson Bruce Lee - performance art Michael Jackson, Tom Hanks, Mick Stump (if you say he's an art teacher, he's probably an artist!) Spielberg, Wren, Rowling (I would say so as she creates pictures - something ethereal) Not artists: Jamie Oliver (although some may say creating good food is an art? - maybe if you had chosen a chef who is a Michelin star one who produces beautiful looking food, then they might be considered an artist in my mind) Hitler (who knows??) Ayton Senna Usain Bolt Athletes are not artists in my mind but I'm not entirely sure why not.”

-Kate Baker, Physics Teacher

“Well definitely Van Gogh due to the wonderful paintings. Leonardo, the drawings and the science. Bruce Lee, as a Martial artist is still an artist! Jamie Oliver is a food artist, slightly different medium, but still a masterpiece. Christopher Ren, the architect is an artist in stone... JK Rowling uses words as her medium, nearly the same as Michael Jackson. He put his to music as well... Tom Hanks uses words and action, probably written by Steven Spielberg. Both artists in their own way. The others are either experts, and they probably exhibit some form of artistry, but not really artists, or I didn't know who they were.”

-Gary Glenn, Chartered Chemist

“All of them that I know of apart from Hitler, because I believe creativity come from a higher mind without ego.”

-Miranda Adams, Martial Artist

“Well art is human's expressing their skills so really all of them are artists in their own way but traditionally painters would be classed as artists because they produce art in the more common form”

-Keith Rix, Graphic Designer

“Well in my opinion they are all Artists in their own fields. E.g.) Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci and Mick Stump were actual artists. Henri Besson was the art of photography Bruce Lee Martial Arts”

-Mrs Field, My Primary School Teacher

“I would say they all are as art is a Personal interpretation of emotion, desire, dreams, wishes and work, whether those aspirations and emotions are right is another matter but life in general is art.”

-Tom Tokelove, Hairdresser

“I think they could all be classed as an Artist in way or another, but all would belong in different category's for different reasons. Creativity has a huge spectrum and although Hitler was an artist, he also believed he could design his perfect world! I love your list it has made me think about how one word "Artist" can mean so many different things depending upon who your talking to and whom you are talking about.”

-Samantha Pratt, Funeral Director

“I would only say Leonardo de Vinci, Michael Jackson, Steven Spielberg and Christopher Wren are artists out the list. It’s all in your mind because I wouldn’t say Van Gogh was an artist because I don’t like his work. Art is in the eye of the beholder! I feel like it’s all in your mind. Would you say I’m an artist because I deliver babies?”

-Tracey Stafford, Midwife

“My thoughts of what an artist is, is someone who displays an extraordinary talent or skill that can’t be taught. It’s someone who displays or engages others in a way that puts them in awe of others. It’s a person who triggers emotions visually, mentally, auditorily, and triggers off our senses. Looking at your list the only persons who I do not think are artists are Usain Bolt and Ayrton Senna. This maybe because I do not have a sensory stimulation when I see them ‘work’ nor do I appreciate their abilities. Also, there is nothing at the end when they have finished, nothing to see or listen to, they haven’t created anything. Having said this Bruce Lee could be argued as being the same, however he has learnt a disciplined martial art rather than being the fastest which is the only real marker for the other two.”

-Jo Jutsum, Company Director and hobby oil painter

“I think Leonardo da Vinci was most definitely an artist and genius. Henri Cartier Bresson - yes, an artist that set standards for other photographic artists to follow. His ability in pictorial composition and timing, the decisive moment set the benchmark. Bruce Lee is a difficult one for me. Jamie Oliver is a chef of exceeding standards prepares a dish of food that is visually stimulating to view then again, it’s this not like a painting. This wouldn’t make the man an artist. Michael Jackson is certainly an artist of sound and dance. Tom Hanks is a great actor in my view, a true master of his craft of acting. His visual performances stir emotions as much as any painting. I would therefore consider him an artist of the performing arts. Hitler; putting aside the fact that he painted, he had great vision, all be it of the darkness in nature, he was a great leader and understood warfare techniques and political tactics to the highest standard. However, I cannot concede that he was an artist is warfare - that would be saying war can be artistic. Mick stump, however, I do not know much about this gent except that he taught you art at school to such a high standard that you were able to obtain access to a great art school. To impart this knowledge upon you he too must be an artist. Ayton Senna was a formula 1 racing driver that I followed. A driver of such talent that at his time he was the world’s best driver by far. His driving ability was inconceivable by many, his focus and vision were obsessional to the point where he died pushing his personal envelope. He made the car dance at 200mph like now one else could at the time. I feel a talent of such enormity, that transcends all others ability makes they an artist of the craft. Christopher Wren was most certainly an artist, a person that can dream up and design a structure like St Pauls cathedral is truly gifted. J.K Rowling - most certainly an artist of the written word and visual arts. For the same reason as Spielberg. They touch the emotion of millions. Although, Usain bolt is a great athlete, talented in his field and gifted with a body to achieve his goals but to a creative person - therefore not an artist.

-Mark Jutsum, Project Manager

“Now that is an interesting question. It depends on how one defines an artist. Is it a person who creates something tangible out of physical media such as paint, wood or stone? If that were the case then the list would include Van Gogh, da Vinci, Hitler, Cartier. If we extend the media to include celluloid (or similar) or the creative activity to include a performance in sound or movement, then we can include Spielberg, Jackson, Hanks, Rowling, Lee. I would include writers such as Rowling as artists since their medium is the pen and the page to create something of beauty and lasting significance. If however, the definition is broader - a persons who creates something out of any media then all would be included. The grace of the sportsman might then include Senna and Bolt. I have misgivings about the including athletes in this - but then what about gymnastics, ballet etc? Perhaps the key for me is that the item produced should provoke an emotional reaction in the person witnessing it. There should be an interaction between artist and viewer transmitted through the medium of the work of art. An emotional connection. I don’t know who Wren and Stump are.”

-Andrew Wordsworth, Doctor and Author

“Artists are creative whether they carry a paint brush, microphone, pen or whisk they all create things, visions, displays of artistry, passion & talent that often conjure up good feelings on their audiences. While often soothing their own being.”

-Jaqi Glenn, Councillor

……………………………………………………………………………………………

Whilst reading the responses, it seems literally everything about ‘art’ is based on opinion. Whether someone is an artist, whether their work or profession is classed as art, is all up to someone else. Thinking about it, even the definition of art is opinion because everyone’s interpretations on art are so diverse, even on just visual art. This got me thinking, is ‘art’ an opinion that has become so diverse that what is and isn’t liked is still called art.

Art has been challenged by the new in each movement. ‘Art’ has become such a broad spectrum that even today, we don’t fully know what art is anymore. Whilst sitting with my family we started talking about photography and this then escalated into a debate as to what an artist is. Ben, my younger brother, suggested that anyone can be an artist in almost anything if you’re good enough. My mum disagreed with that and said that an artist has to be a visual or sensory thing, if others can’t see it, hear it, feel it then it’s not art; so, they’re not an artist. Dad, on the other hand had a completely different theory. He thought that if you were the best at something, whether it be boxing, cooking or even driving a car then you’re an artist. I concluded that we overuse the word artist and maybe it devalues true artists. But the question to ask is what is a true artist?

‘Art’ can also relate to other forms of ‘art’, for example, languages. People observe things differently in languages, even in the same language. Different pitches of the same word mean different things. Some words in the English language sound the same but are spelt differently and mean different things such as the words to, too and two. I feel like it’s the same for art. 'The Bulls Head' by Picasso could be seen in a different way or have an alternative interpretation by individual people, it could be seen as a bike seat and handle or as a “Bull’s Head.” Language and speech are very similar in that aspect; it’s all down to an individual’s interpretation. But by having situations like this, it has stirred up the question as to what art is because so many “artists” have challenged what was before them.

Vincent van Gogh is one of the most well-known post-impressionist artists in the world and he was one of the ‘artists’ in my questionnaire. He is most known for his bold use of colour, brushstrokes and expression. He was born in Groot-Zundert, Holland on March 30, 1853. His life was overall quite sad, he was very poor, a little mad and his career during his lifetime was unsuccessful, only managing to sell one painting before his death in July 1890. During his lifetime, Van Gogh wasn’t considered to be an artist. A painter, yes; but not an artist. Now, his artwork is sold for millions. Vincent van Gogh's “Laboureur Dans Un Champ”, painted from the window of a French asylum, was sold at auction for $111 million.

Prior to my research into this topic and serious contemplation, my opinion was that an artist was one who demonstrated real creativity and originality with what they were creating. If someone were the first to create something to a high standard, I would class them as an artist. But now I think I may have been narrow minded.

I came across a selection of books for which the title started; “The Art of……” and it was literally for anything. For example; “The Art of Shaving”, “The Art of War”, “The Art of Not Giving a Shit”, “The Art of Conference Meetings”. It seems that now anything and everything can be an art, and, in my opinion, this has devalued what I view as ‘Art’ to the extreme. Calling someone an artist in shaving because they have mastered that art doesn’t sit quite right. In my opinion, being an artist isn’t a major thing today. I believed that being considered an artist should be earnt, like earning the titles of doctor or professor. You learn your craft over time, you invest in your skills, you earn that title. So, maybe that’s why people don’t think ‘art’ is that important? Because the status ‘artist’ is being massively overused.

The definition of the word art is this according to the dictionary on Google;

1. The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.

"the art of the Renaissance"

synonyms:

fine art, artwork, creative activity

"he studied art"

works produced by human creative skill and imagination.

"his collection of modern art"

synonyms:

fine art, artwork, creative activity

"he studied art"

creative activity resulting in the production of paintings, drawings, or sculpture.

"she's good at art"

2. The various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance.

"the visual arts"

3. Subjects of study primarily concerned with human creativity and social life, such as languages, literature, and history (as contrasted with scientific or technical subjects).

"the belief that the arts and sciences were incompatible"

4. A skill at doing a specified thing, typically one acquired through practice.

"the art of conversation"

synonyms:

skill, craft, technique.

The definition is so broad that it could be interpreted as almost anything. Maybe the definition in people’s eyes has changed over time. Maybe now it’s to perfect a skill to a certain level. However, in my opinion, the pendulum music we were shown in class was not music. It didn’t fit into the definition of music for which I understand. According to Google. I wouldn’t say that it was music at all, but I guess that’s my opinion. Others might have thought it fitted nicely into the category of music. Another thing we were shown in class which caused a discussion between my fellow classmates was the “Bulls Head” by Picasso. I really liked it, but others didn’t. I thought the way the photo was taken of the “Bulls Head” was artistic in itself because the shadow of the objects looks like the neck and body of the head. I would call this art, but others wouldn’t. I chose this piece to talk about because I feel I feel the metaphor behind this piece is very strong. Picasso did it in a way where his work wasn't all similar, it was quite impressionistic as well.

Picasso formed kind of formed a new form of art. I specifically chose Picasso because he's not only a painter he's also a sculpture printmaker poet the writer and he's just a creator And I feel like because his art form spreads across lots of different art forms I feel like he is perfect for my essay. I feel with this art piece, people with one type of Personality would see the handlebars and bicycle whereas another type of personality would see the bulls head. It just depends on whether you're more creative or academic I feel but that's just my personal opinion. Picasso did a lot of work consisting of a bull and he was also a very playful character and as a child he Was taken to quite a lot of bull fights with his father um so maybe it resembles him growing up too fast because reading about him it says he left his father’s surname behind him, so maybe it could be something to do with that. I would personally call this piece and artwork because even though it's very simple and it's very almost a little bit conceptual I still find it very interesting and the thought process behind this art piece is extremely interesting and it leaves people with thoughts in their mind and questions which is what I think certain art pieces should do. Some however would not consider this to be art but on the idea of my essay is to figure out what art is but some would say that rank off isn't an artist or some would say that Duchamp is an artist when others would so narrowing it down people’s opinions is basically impossible.

I think Graphic Design is a modern form of art and I think it’s extremely similar to traditional art/painting. The only difference I draw is that they have completely different starting points. With Graphic Design, you are told what is required and you are trying to sell an object from your design or to influence someone. Whereas a fine artist/painter wants to set off an emotion to the audience or record a scene or event.

Personally, I think there can’t be a definitive definition of the word art anymore. Not one that defines an artist, as this word is no longer used in purely the traditional sense of art and artistry (painting and drawing etc). Obviously there has to be a definition otherwise it couldn’t be a word, but it needs to be reworded in a way that can be more defined. However, I believe that this would be difficult because people don’t place enough importance in art and artists to validate defining them in their own right.

After asking the public their views of the list of individuals potentially eligible to be labelled artists, I have thought carefully as to what my opinion is of them. My opinion has been formed after doing my research and listening to others’ views, so I feel I may have been influenced.

Although Van Gogh’s work is admired now, it wasn’t back when he was alive. In his lifetime, he wasn’t considered to be a valid artist. His work was hated and he, considered mentally insane. However, today his paintings are sold for millions. This shows how quickly the world changes; his artistic title goes from nothing to everything in just over 100 years. In my opinion he was ahead of his time, he was different, and people disliked him for it. It’s similar to Leonardo da Vinci who was again ahead of his time.

Henri Cartier Bresson set standards for other photographic artists to follow. His ability in pictorial composition and timing, also known as, the decisive moment, made other photographers follow in his footsteps. I believe that makes him an artist. His photographs are world famous and his ideas are known to most photographers. He set a standard and benchmark for others to learn from.

Bruce Lee does provide a visual presentation and I would say that if people class actors to be artists of any kind then he fits into the category of visual artist and martial artist. As to whether or not his mastery of martial arts adds to him being artistic it’s very difficult to say and maybe down to personal opinion. Martial arts do however employ a heavy emphasis on technique and strategy that counteracts those of the opponent evoking some emotion in those spectating.

Jamie Oliver is a chef whom other chefs admire. He makes all his food look and taste to a high standard. I’m not sure I would call him an artist though because if you’re paying how much he or people as good as him charge, then it’s supposed to look and taste good. I would call him a high-class chef. However, I am definitely not a cook and underestimate the skills and qualities involved in cooking.

I would say Michael Jackson is an artist of sound and dance. His moves influenced millions of people globally and made them feel something. He was known as the King of Pop and made millions from selling his albums worldwide. He invented dance moves such as “The Moon Walk” which people are in awe of today. His presence on stage was astounding and even today people are in amazed at his talents.

Tom Hanks is a great actor in my view. I would consider him an artist of the performing arts. However, I wouldn’t consider all actors/actresses to be artists. They have to be of a high standard in my opinion. This is the same as authors, singers, painters, directors and architects.

Hitler, putting aside the fact that he painted and tried to get into art school, was a great leader and understood warfare techniques and political tactics to the highest standard. He knew how to get people to believe, follow, and even die for him. However, I cannot concede that he was an artist. A painter maybe, but his work wasn’t known at the time and now he is known for WW2 and sending millions of people to their deaths. However, aren’t martial arts a type of warfare? I think maybe, its people’s own opinion whether warfare is an art because most people couldn’t nor wouldn’t morally justify what Hitler did. This painting was painted by Hitler, it’s of Vienna State Opera House, painted in 1912. Maybe a lot of people don't consider Hitler as an artist because he is known around the world for being something else so maybe to be an artist you have to be known just for being creative or maybe that has to be the most common thing you're known for. I do find it interesting that most of his paintings are of architecture rather than nature considering what he is most known for. To be considered as an artist, do you have to be admired for just your art/creative side or is it that you just have to be liked and popular with people?

Steven Spielberg is a film director with an outstanding talent that has produced visual productions that have emotionally touch millions. He would be in the same category as a singer, driver, actor or author, all performing/visual artists. Although they are different forms, I would say they all fit into that category until proven otherwise. All of these arts though are for an audience and without an audience they wouldn’t exist, but people do create their art for themselves. However, having an audience or someone who appreciates your talents and skills can influence you to become better at your art or encourage you to do so more.

Even though Mr Stump isn’t well known across the world, I would consider him an artist. A lot of people wouldn’t have considered him an artist because they didn’t know who he was, so they assumed he wasn’t an artist. I quote again, “The others are either experts, and they probably exhibit some form of artistry, but not really artists, or I didn't know who they were.” If you don’t know who they are, why would you call them an artist? You wouldn’t. But it doesn’t mean they aren’t one. Or does it? Mr Stump taught me art, encouraged me to do Graphic Design and even escorted me to this university in the hope that I would study this course.

Christopher Wren I would definitely consider to be an artist. He designed St Pauls cathedral and many other structures/buildings. He had an incredible talent in his genuine gift with architecture.

Usain bolt is a great athlete however I wouldn’t say he is an artist. He is incredibly motivated but, in my view, you have to be obsessive to get to that high level. In my opinion there is nothing about him that is creative in any discipline.

To be the best at something, doesn’t make you an artist as, equally, not being the best doesn’t not make you one. Maybe, I have found my conclusion and that it’s down to other opinions as to whether you’re classed as an artist in a field or discipline. In some cases, I feel it is down to luck; being in the right place at the right time for people to see you perform or create your art. Equally they might not see you as an artist at all. Art is in the eye of the beholder and something I might think is amazing, another might think is complete rubbish. So, our opinion and the meaning behind our decision will title whether someone is an artist or not. That is probably why “art” is considered to be of less value as deep down, everyone wants to be an artist. Everyone wants to master an art of something, whether it is the ‘art’ of happiness, music, drawing, shaving, fighting, etc… There is a book on how to master an ‘art’ in so many subjects even though it clearly isn’t an art. You can just buy one and give it a go and hope that once you’ve read it, you’re an artist. So, I have come to the conclusion that deep down everyone wants to be an artist but whether you are one on not depends on what others think. ‘Art’ continues to challenge tradition to such an extreme that art today can be almost anything.

Bibliography/References

§ 'The Bulls Head' by Picasso

§ Kelly Rix, part time Photographer

§ My High School friend, Dina Aldrich

§ Linda Baker, Vicar

§ Cheryl Bhatia, Nurse (and my Nan)

§ Kate Baker, Physics Teacher

§ Gary Glenn, Chartered Chemist

§ Miranda Adams, Martial Artist

§ Keith Rix, Graphic Designer

§ Mrs Field, My Primary School Teacher

§ Tom Tokelove, Hairdresser

§ Samantha Pratt, Funeral Director

§ Tracey Stafford, Midwife

§ Jo Jutsum, Company Director and hobby oil painter (and my mum)

§ Mark Jutsum, Project Manager (and my dad)

§ Andrew Wordsworth, Doctor and Author

§ Jaqi Glenn, Councillor

§ https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&ei=M_nHXOuEFYuS1fAPgcyK6Ag&q=the+art+of&oq=the+art+of&gs_l=psy-ab.3..35i39j0l9.16732.18163..18610...0.0..0.70.295.5......0....1..gws-wiz.......0i71j0i22i30j0i20i263.0HJDL_ISAR0

§ https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&ei=RvnHXLmQMJiN1fAPy5ar6A8&q=definition+of+art&oq=definition+&gs_l=psy-ab.1.0.0i67l2j0i131j0l4j0i131j0j0i131.62172.64538..66147...0.0..0.85.749.11....2..0....1..gws-wiz.......0i71j35i39j0i131i273j0i273.0V1JwL-PNuc

§ https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&ei=ifnHXJrUIe6d1fAPz-aEwAM&q=definition+of+music&oq=definition+of+music&gs_l=psy-ab.3..0l10.80247.81974..82962...0.0..0.49.232.5......0....1..gws-wiz.......0i71j0i67j0i131.NAN6FwTb5Bo

§ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fU6qDeJPT-w

§ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paintings_by_Adolf_Hitler

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