Charles Chaplin and Pure Art

Almost five years ago 2017, when I visited Charles Chaplin's Museum and his home in Vevey, Switzerland. It was during an art fair in which I represented a number of artists in Montreux! This is not about the exhibition neither is it about the artists, but about Charles Chaplin! Up to the day of visiting his museum, I had considered him as a simple character with a unique comedian! Having spent a full day between visiting his both museum and home, I was left with deep appreciation and respect for him! Why? Chaplin was a perfectionist, but this was not the only attribute made him genuine artist or a spontaneous person! His childhood in London was not for anyone to envy. Yet, his unique persona led him to where he became; loved by millions of people up to day! Was this only because he was unique comedian, successful director, natural Actor, sensible composer, keen screenwriter and capable producer or intelligent editor? No, but it was because of his strong stand for his principles. He dreamt of a world of peace free from war and refused to join the army! He loved his family dearly and was loyal person to whomever he met or committed to in particular to his mother.

With his English background, being born in UK, he chose to migrate to US for a number of reasons. But he was accused of communist sympathies, and of other accusations. Consequently, Chaplin was forced to leave the United States and settled in Switzerland.

Regardless of the hardships he faced, Charlie Chaplin was an iconic figure of the silent-film era and was one of film's first superstars, elevating the industry in a way few could have ever imagined. His success never made him haughty, but his soft heart accompanied him all his life. His love and appreciation for his mother were significant. It was his first priority to make it up for the unfortunate years she lived prior to his success.

Conclusion; genuine person is as such at all times regardless of his/her situations or social status. Yes, genuine person has the right confidence to feel comfortable in his/her own skin. Thus, success never make them misplace their originality. They have the courage to speak their minds because they don’t strive to make others like them. Simply, they are present at the moment of reality to be themselves. That is why they are transparent and naturally attract those who appreciate such attributes.

What this has to do with art! Isn’t art about the pure expressions of self-perception on matters or objects? Would it not have made the world a better place if we were motivated by similar purity and operate through similar perspective?

©Mona Youssef