How We See Art: Shifting Perception and Embracing the Invisible with Gita Joshi
What makes a work of art truly resonate? Is it the colors, the subject, the symbolism—or something more elusive?
In a recent episode of Art & Cocktails, curator, coach, and author Gita Joshi returned to chat with host Ekaterina Popova about her powerful new book, Framing the Invisible: How We See and Understand Art. Unlike her previous guide for artists (Show Your Art), this latest release invites readers—whether artists, collectors, or curious viewers—to reflect on how personal perspective shapes our experience with art.
“There is no wrong answer when it comes to how you see art,” Gita shares. “Your background, experience, and emotions all shape your interpretation. It’s about developing your own taste while staying open to what might not resonate right away.”
Art as a Dialogue, Not a Monologue
A central theme of Framing the Invisible is that art is not a one-way statement, but a living exchange between the work and the viewer. Gita draws from thinkers like Roland Barthes, Susan Sontag, and John Berger to explore how perception is constructed—and how even a small glimpse into an artist’s intent or history can dramatically shift our understanding of their work.
As Kat notes, the book is especially empowering for self-taught artists or creatives who may feel like outsiders in the art world.
“We often think that if we didn’t go to art school, we don’t have the right vocabulary,” Kat reflects. “But learning the basics—like composition, color symbolism, or perspective—can help us speak about our work with confidence, and help others connect to it more deeply.”
The Power of Context
Framing the Invisible explores topics including:
How cognitive dissonance plays a role in visual taste
Why there’s no singular way to “read” a work of art
How colors and symbols are culturally embedded and evolve over time
How to build confidence in speaking about and collecting art
Why having language for what we’re experiencing enhances our enjoyment
Gita also emphasizes that you don’t need a formal art education to engage meaningfully with artwork.
“It’s not about memorizing a reading list,” she says. “It’s about trusting your own experience, while staying open to new perspectives.”
An Invitation to See Differently
Whether you're scrolling Instagram, walking through a gallery, or visiting a friend’s studio, Framing the Invisible offers a simple but profound reminder: pause, look again, and ask what you're truly seeing—and why it matters.
“If you’re making art, you’re already part of the art world,” Kat affirms. “This book helps you step into that role with more presence and clarity.”
Framing the Invisible is available now in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook formats.
Learn more about Gita Joshi’s work at thecuratorssalon.com and follow her on Instagram @thegitajoshi.
🎧 Listen to the full interview on the Art & Cocktails podcast
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