Art content or technique, which is more important?

Looking at Art:

Do you respond to art because it is beautifully made, or is it something more that grabs your attention? The Florida Watercolor society had a panel discussion and all of the panel members were judges of national exhibitions. Their surprising answer to this question was that the artist’s passion for their subject was most important. One judge went on to say that they look at the entries more than once because flashy technique can make the art look good at first, but when taking a second look, the technically excellent may not stand up to work that communicates to the viewer, becoming more substantial rather than decorative.

 Work in the Studio:

In my most recent paintings I am concerned with the impact of light and dark. It is my goal to make the most important part of the image emphasized with the greatest contrast in value. In this way, I hope to engage the viewer with the heart of the work. My approach to taking reference photos has also changed, with this goal in mind, I deliberately select subjects which can almost play hide and seek with the viewer.

Is It Safe? Watercolor, 14” x 11”