Judging Art and Archetypes
September is the time of year when we select an artist to create the artwork for a limited-edition tea we premiere in October. The box and tea are popular items for the holidays and beyond because of the inspiring art we have featured and how the contest strives to support local Black artists.
Last week we convened with our judges. The seven members of the team worked conscientiously and followed a fair and deliberate process that was appropriate for an art contest.
Some of the judges are working artists or have an artistic background, so they could spot the technical mistakes and areas for improvement. They were comfortable assessing the submissions and confident in their choices. They had relevant experience. We will call them the “Technicians.”
Others do not have training in visual arts, nor are they paid in their careers to be creative. These judges were more hesitant to criticize, unsure what was “right” or “wrong” about the art but eventually joined those with the artistic backgrounds to reach consensus. These are the “Novices.”
The remaining judges landed somewhere in the middle. Perhaps they know something about painting or photography; they are collectors of art or hope to be. Nevertheless, they had strong opinions about the submissions, and no problems weighing in on someone else’s creative passion despite a lack of extensive experience. They had a job to do. Let’s call them the “Doers.”
The views of the judges were varied, and all were valid. They chose an accomplished artist with an amazing portfolio whose work will be well-received by customers and the community. The goal, after all, was to choose a winner.
A problem, though, is that the archetypes represented by our tea box art judges (Technicians, Novices, Doers) exist in our daily lives. Rather than contributing to something beautiful, worthwhile, and a benefit to others, these self-appointed adjudicators apply unrealistic standards to the lives of those with whom they come in contact. What is more problematic is that most of us are among one of these categories of judges.
The Technicians have erred in many of the same ways as those around them, but they have overcome or are overcoming, so they are quick to point out our flaws, often without the same level of grace and understanding they were once afforded. Instead, they could offer an ear, a relevant perspective, and if requested, gentle advice.
The Novices approach others in the correct way – cautious and hesitant to be critical. Unfortunately, they are often co-opted by the Technicians and the Doers, rather than giving others the benefit of the doubt. Novices should trust their instincts and remind themselves that there is likely much they do not know about the lives of others.
The Doers may not judge quickly. They want to be seen as wise and experienced, but their judgement can be harsh. Doers may justify the harm caused by their “verdicts” because they believe they are helping others to become “better people.”
When describing the environment at The House, we have often used the term “judgement-free,” and to be sure there is far less judgement within the walls of 3028 Carnes than in many other places. All of us, however, are guilty of judging. Sustaining a judgement-free environment is a conscious choice which requires daily discipline.
Praying together – Orange Mound ladies, volunteers, and sometimes guests – is essential. It diverts our attention away from ourselves and the superficial. Mentors and mentees socializing outside of My Cup of Tea helps us to better understand one another and recognize how we are alike. Sharing a meal daily breaks down barriers and stereotypes.
A Middle Eastern proverb says, “He who shares his food shares his heart,” and in Acts 2: 46-47, in addressing the early Christian Church, Scripture says, “And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people.”
Unlike the tea box art contest, the goal of life is not to identify a single winner. We are not participants in some worldwide version of “The Hunger Games.”
Many of us remember the passage in Scripture where Jesus says, “Judge not that you be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1) Jesus then goes on to discuss the speck in our brother’s eye versus the log in our own. A few verses later, in Matthew 7:12, we receive the “Golden Rule.”
“So, whatever you wish others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”
And who of us wishes to be judged?