When I stand before a blank canvas or sit before an empty page, I embark on a journey of self-discovery. Oil painting and poetry, two art forms I cherish, offer unique pathways to explore my inner world. Painting and poetry unfold over time. Each brushstroke or carefully chosen word reflects my perception and intent. I'm not simply recording reality; I'm interpreting and transforming it from my own perspective.The choices I make in paintings - colors, forms, textures - and in poems - words, rhythms, metaphors - mirror my inner self. When I craft visual or verbal representations of my psyche, I reveal aspects I may not have fully recognized before, and that often surprise me. That's the voyage of discovery I'm truly after, even more so than an end product!
Both oil painting and poetry provide rich vocabularies for expressing innermost thoughts and feelings. Bold reds in a painting or vivid imagery in a poem might express passion and joy, or the opposite. Painting and poetry demand time and patience. This slower pace provides the time needed for reflection and introspection to bubble to the surface. As I work on a painting or craft a poem over hours or days, I become pre-occupied with the subject I am depicting. I observe my thoughts and emotions evolving, revealing patterns in my inner life that unfold unexpectedly.
One powerful lesson both art forms have taught me is the beauty of imperfection and the inevitability of change. A painting or poem is always in a state of potential transformation. I can always add another layer of paint, revise a line, or rework a stanza. This flexibility encourages me to let go of rigid expectations and embrace the unexpected, both in art and in life. While creation is often solitary, sharing my work with fellow artists and writers provides opportunities for growth. Through these interactions, I gain new perspectives on my work and myself, spurring further exploration and self-discovery. Oil painting and poetry, with their rich histories and endless possibilities, offer unique paths to self-discovery. As I engage with canvas and page, I embark on journeys of self-reflection, growth, and transformation. I learn to express myself in new ways, to embrace imperfection, and to see the world - and myself - with fresh eyes. In a world that often values speed and instant results, these thoughtful practices provide much-needed space for deep reflection and personal growth. They remind me that the most valuable discoveries often come not from capturing reality as it is, but from exploring the rich, complex landscape of my inner self.
Whether you're an experienced artist or a curious beginner, the paths of self-discovery through painting and poetry are open to all. As you face your canvas or blank page, remember that your goal is not to create a perfect representation of the external world, but to embark on a journey of self-expression and self-discovery. In doing so, you may find that the greatest masterpiece you create is not on the canvas or page, but within yourself.