How to Fake an Interest in Art

With the emergence of new talent each year, the roster of accomplished artists grows faster than most people can track. Fortunately, you don’t need to know every detail about art if you find yourself in a crowd of enthusiasts and want to make a good impression. Read below to find out how you can learn just enough to bluff your way through a conversation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Recognize the names of the basic art periods: Medieval (c. 200 - c. 1430); Renaissance or Neoclassism (c. 1300 - c. 1780); Romanticism (1790 – 1880); Modern art (late 19th century - c. 1970) and Contemporary (1970 to today). Note that these time frames are approximate.
2. As contemporary art is more open to new interpretations because it is so fresh, choose one or two up-and-coming artists to study. You can find names through an Internet search engine or on artist-dedicated sites such as PBS Art:21 (http://www.pbs.org/art21/).
3. Memorize the style, colors and emotions the artist evokes. Also remember biographical information, titles of pieces and where the artist has exhibited.
4. When you find yourself stuck in a conversation about art, listen politely and wait for an opening to share your information. Your listeners will likely be impressed by your knowledge of the art movement, and you can use the opportunity to segue into a broader topic.

Tips & Warnings

• Art snobs do exist and not just in the movies. If you get stuck in a conversation with no way out, excuse yourself and join another group.
• To avoid uncomfortable situations, don't lie or expand the truth. You are likely to get caught and blow your cover.

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