As I am now back to work and have been very busy I did not find the time to actually go to an exhibit but I found a book on the work of Claude Monet who's work I admire very much.
I read some of the background information and what stood out to me was that he wanted to show the beautiful light that was outside. He wanted to show the beauty of nature while it was usual to paint an inside scene at the time.
Looking at some of his paintings I could suddenly see the "golden hour" light. I had not noticed this before although I was always attracted to his work for the use of colors. I saw his water lily series and thought that I look at the same waterlilies every day and have never seen the beauty he shows in his paintings. I have also tried to photograph them in the past but I have not gotten a photo I like yet.
He has some paintings that show the soft evening light but still have color. This is one of my favorites and this one as well. The weather is so apparent from his paintings. I can suddenly relate to Kat's words of art capturing the essence of a person or place.
I see many images or other types of art that inspire me but until now I have always thought I couldn't capture what they captured. Or sometimes I have tried and it didn't work so I sort of gave up on that.
I took this picture once after being inspired by abstract images and reflections.
But then they are not as beautiful as the work I saw and I guess I give up on it. Now on writing this I realize everybody needs time to learn and the image that inspired me was probably not the persons first attempt at that. It was more likely the product of honing a skill for a while. I have just realized I should give myself time to learn and to pursue. I always want to learn something instantly and have the skill instantly. If I don't I give it up and do something else.
Monique,
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI completely understand your frustration with getting less-than-stellar results as you are learning. But you are so correct that we need to give ourselves time to hone our craft and it is only through experimentation that we find new ways to express ourselves.
And I simply love both your photographs. The water lilies are really stunning - the soft, golden monochromatic color scheme makes the scene appear to be covered in liquid gold; the reflected clouds and the balance of lights and shadows. Monet would be proud!
The reflections photo has an amazing mystery to it - I love the abstract quality,the patterns and the beautiful blue.
Keep exploring!
One of my favourite quotes is "comparison is the enemy of creativity". I'm guilty of it too and, like you, have to remind myself that I'm still learning. I absolutely love both your images. I really see Monet's inspiration in your water lilies. Your abstract reflections is gorgeous - I don't know the images you are comparing it to and I don't need to, it's a beautiful piece of art in its own right.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenBecx
Great job on making this exercise work for you with limited time. I can see Monet and his water lilies (absolute favs of mine!) in your shared images. You are right, it takes us time and effort to hone our craft. Keep working and seeking your vision, because amazing things will result!
BeantwoordenVerwijderenBecs - I love that quote!!
Monique, I love your statement, "It was more likely the product of honing a skill for a while. I have just realized I should give myself time to learn and to pursue. I always want to learn something instantly and have the skill instantly." You described me! There is comfort in knowing others suffer with this, too. Often I am so impatient with my own progress. "I want it all and I want it now."
BeantwoordenVerwijderenNormally I don't always read others comments on a blog post, but I have to agree that Becs quote about comparison being the enemy of creativity is so true.
Patience and compassion with ourselves. Important lessons from this class, I think.
Your images are lovely, especially the water lilies.
It seems to me that even the most accomplished person, at whatever art or science, is probably always looking to improve his/her craft. That you aren't yet able to produce an image with the same qualities as artists you admire just shows that you are at a different place on experience continuum than they are. Keep at it, and I'm sure you will satisfy your own expectations sooner than you imagine.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenBoth of these images are wonderful, though the second one reminds me of Van Gogh more than Monet. I very strongly relate to your comment about wanting to be able to do things well the first time I try them, and giving up if I don't. Thank you for sharing your insight. You've made me think!
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI relate to your journaling. I'm very quick to say that's not what I want and I guess I can't get it! A lesson we all need, give ourselves time!! I love the waterlilies image. Gorgeous light and reflections!
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