Art plays different roles in society, from serving as a means of expression to documenting events and notable occurrences. Over the years, the role of arts in society has gone beyond the traditionally-acclaimed ones. Artists now create works to serve purposes like campaigning for causes like social well-being and putting their origins on the global map. Many of them desire one thing above anything else – recognition for their works.

For artwork to be recognized appropriately and adequately appreciated, it must reach the right audience. Those who will appreciate the message the artists are trying to convey will amplify it through their reviews. The right audience is even more critical for up-and-coming artists who still require support to launch their careers prosperously. Artist exhibitions have moved from art galleries and high-class events to cafes, bookshops, and other easily-accessible places to gain a larger audience.

Making art accessible goes beyond supporting the artists. Their works improve society by giving the audience some sort of fulfillment or another. Viewing art that celebrates one’s origin can give a sense of belonging to others with similar backgrounds. Some may be to make personal struggles relatable, while others may raise awareness about social issues. By portraying these messages to those who can relate to them or those who can effect changes, art helps improve social wellness.

The Impressions of the World Exhibition fulfills many roles art plays in society. It was an opportunity for artists from all backgrounds to get their works to an audience that would give them their attention, adoration, and support. It also gave the locals evocative artworks to admire and interpret creatively. Some works displayed at the exhibition include Memories by artist Lolita Chin and Ren Liu’s Chanting.

The paintings received a warm welcome from the locals, who were glad to be able to interact with the arts through the event again. Visitors to the exhibition had a lot to say about the event. “Every painting will mean something different to each person….when we dig deeper, we might find more of the meaning and intention of the painting to the artist,” Dylan Zdon said of Chanting.

Lolita Chin’s Memories also evoked reactions as it depicts the artist’s memories from past travels. Each piece portrayed in the painting is actually an item the artist collected from different countries. One of the most prominent images in the painting is the elephant, which symbolizes prosperity and a good destiny in Chinese culture. It also has the Chinese character for luck written on it.

While going through the exhibition, one can understand the artists’ cultures, heritages, and backgrounds, which they portrayed through their works. Both the artists and the visitors can enjoy the exhibition’s mission of providing a community venue where beautiful art can create cultural corners and healing spaces. The overall goal of social wellness is achieved as the community grows with the contribution of everyone.

Art is subjective and will always elicit different reactions from people. Artists think creatively and often out of the literal box, so it sometimes takes several attempts at interpretations to understand an artwork correctly. Some may require knowing the story behind them as they are open to multiple interpretations.