This is a question worth considering as you present your work to the public.

What is it that we expect of it? What reaction are we looking for? And perhaps more importantly, should we be looking for a reaction?

The answers come down to the intention we hold for our creative work.

Why do we do it? Who is it for? Are we creating for ourselves, for the fulfillment it provides us, for joy and satisfaction – for the sheer knowledge that the creative work is given to us to be expressed? Or are we creating it for an audience? To move people, inspire, invoke, disturb even?

Clearly, there can be mixed intentions. Giving some thought to what they are can help you prepare for the public’s reaction.

Even when you’ve been there, done that and the process is familiar – every new project deserves attention to this question.

What do you expect of your art? Who is it for?