So I started typing this out in response to a thread, but realized it has been eons(well, over a year) since I have updated my journel so I figure what they hey - may as well post it there.

Drawing and painting is a bit of an obsession with me, I would still do it if no one ever bothered to look at it, but not at the same frequency.  The truth is we post here for others to see it - appreciate it - learn from it - be inspired in some way shape or form.  A magnificent drawing means very little if it is not shared, it has no purpose past the point of creation.  Creation itself has some value - but many of us would consider hiding something like that a bit of a waste.  So that got me to thinking about what exactly is Art, the purpose and what most of us are trying to achieve with it. Like I said I would continue drawing without ever showing it, but I know I would lose some drive and inspiration if I could never get feedback or show it off.  So it is more than Just an internal drive to create.  I keep trying to improve my technique - when I get stagnent, I lose my creativity so it is more than that.  It is not about replicating what you see - it is about leading your viewers on a journey they might have missed without it, but not all.

It is not only about creation, though that is a part,
It is not only about style, though that is a part,
it is not only about technique, though that is a part,
it is not only about improvement or movement, but that is a part,
it is not only about beauty, but that is a part,
it is not only about vision/perception, though that is a part.  

Art is about all of those things, in different proportions for different people.  I believe the journey we call Art is about finding the balance between all of those values and more.  And everyone's balance is going to be unique to themselves as the balance itself is a factor of perception, and perception by definition is unique to the perciever.  
So it is kind of exciting to realize that everyone is on a seperate journey, to a different destination.  We just get to watch the paths evolve visually and literally as tourists here, and maybe suggest or influence a deviation (pun intended) in course.

So sit back, enjoy the ride - please let your hands and arms flail wildly beyond the cart, and don't be afraid to miss the left turn at Albuquerque!