Inspired by Ben Street’s How to Enjoy Art, this guide is for travellers who love visiting art galleries and museums but sometimes feel overwhelmed by the experience. Instead of worrying about “understanding” a piece, Street encourages a fresh, curiosity-driven approach to art appreciation. Let’s explore how to enjoy art, featuring famous paintings and installations as examples.
1. Look Without Overthinking – The Mona Lisa, Louvre Museum (Paris, France)
Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (c. 1503–1506) is an oil painting on a poplar wood panel, considered a masterpiece of the High Renaissance. Many visitors rush to the Mona Lisa, snap a quick photo, and move on. Instead, take a step back. Observe her enigmatic expression, the sfumato technique that softens her features, and the intimate size of the painting. Let your mind wander—what does her gaze make you feel? Sometimes, the simplest response is the most powerful.
Tip: Avoid peak hours to get a quieter, more immersive moment with the artwork.
Trivia: The Mona Lisa was stolen in 1911 and remained missing for over two years before being recovered.
2. Let Your Emotions Guide You – The Starry Night, MoMA (New York, USA)
Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night (1889) is an oil painting on canvas and a hallmark of Post-Impressionism. You don’t need to know Van Gogh’s tragic backstory to be moved by The Starry Night. Let the swirling blues and yellows wash over you. Does it feel chaotic or peaceful? Exciting or melancholic? Art speaks to us in different ways—your emotional reaction is as valid as any expert’s interpretation.
Tip: Stand at different distances to see how the painting’s energy shifts up close versus far away.
Trivia: The Starry Night was painted while Van Gogh was in a mental asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France.
3. Engage with Scale and Space – The Infinity Mirror Rooms, Yayoi Kusama (Various Locations)
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms (first created in 1965) are immersive, conceptual installations that use mirrors and lights to create an illusion of infinite space. Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms aren’t just for selfies—they immerse you in a boundless, glowing world. Instead of rushing to capture the perfect shot, take a breath and lose yourself in the experience. What does infinity feel like? How does the light affect your perception of space?
Tip: Book in advance—Kusama’s exhibitions often sell out quickly.
Trivia: Kusama voluntarily resides in a psychiatric hospital and considers art a therapeutic outlet for her mental health.
4. Find the Hidden Stories – The Arnolfini Portrait, National Gallery (London, UK)
Jan van Eyck’s The Arnolfini Portrait (1434) is an oil painting on oak panel, exemplifying Early Netherlandish art. The work is filled with small, intriguing details. Notice the tiny convex mirror reflecting the room, the delicate fur-lined robes, or the artist’s signature above the mirror. Who are these people? What’s their story? Art is often a puzzle waiting to be explored.
Tip: Use museum-provided magnifying glasses or zoom features to catch intricate details.
Trivia: Van Eyck’s signature in the painting reads Johannes de Eyck fuit hic (Jan van Eyck was here), making it one of the first Western artworks to feature an artist’s signature in this manner.
5. Step into the Artist’s Shoes – Guernica, Museo Reina Sofía (Madrid, Spain)
Pablo Picasso’s Guernica (1937) is a large oil painting on canvas in a Cubist style, depicting the horrors of war. Guernicais massive and emotionally overwhelming. Instead of reading the label first, just stand in front of it. Imagine being the artist—what emotions and urgency drove Picasso to create this anti-war masterpiece? How does the size and monochrome palette affect its impact?
Tip: Sketch or write a quick reflection to process your thoughts.
Trivia: Guernica was once displayed at MoMA in New York until Spain’s democracy was restored in 1981.
6. Allow for Personal Interpretation – The Persistence of Memory, MoMA (New York, USA)
Salvador Dalí’s The Persistence of Memory (1931) is an oil painting on canvas that exemplifies Surrealism. What do Dalí’s melting clocks mean? Some say they symbolise time’s fluidity, others suggest they’re inspired by melting cheese! Rather than searching for the “right” answer, let your imagination wander. Does this painting remind you of a dream? A memory?
Tip: Encourage conversation—ask a friend or fellow visitor what they see.
Trivia: Dalí claimed that the soft watches were inspired by Camembert cheese melting in the sun.
7. Interact with Art – Cloud Gate (The Bean), Millennium Park (Chicago, USA)
Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate (completed in 2006) is a stainless-steel sculpture known for its highly reflective surface. Art isn’t always meant to be viewed passively. Cloud Gate invites interaction—walk around it, touch its reflective surface, observe how the city and people distort in its curves. Art can be fun, playful, and part of your experience.
Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and better reflections.
Trivia: The sculpture was inspired by liquid mercury and was originally nicknamed The Blob before being renamed Cloud Gate.
Travel Like an Art Lover
How long should you look at a painting? Art experts suggest spending at least 20–30 seconds on a piece to absorb it, while paintings that captivate you deserve at least 5–10 minutes of close attention. Try shifting perspectives—view it from different angles, distances, and even return to it after exploring other works. Art isn’t about being an expert; it’s about being curious. The next time you visit a museum or gallery, let go of the pressure to “get it” and instead embrace the experience. Observe, feel, explore, and most importantly—enjoy!
Where’s your next art adventure taking you?
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet. Safe and mindful travels!