Seeking Beauty in the World
I used to think that visual arts were merely a way to showcase beauty to the world. I have come to understand that it's about discovering beauty within the world itself. It involves observing our surroundings through a unique perspective, acknowledging the beauty that exists, and sharing that vision with others. I don’t intend to overlook the challenges present in the world. But I do strive to find light amid the darkness, whether it’s external or internal.
Let’s take a moment to dive into the notion of beauty. When I speak of beauty, I refer to the imperfect, raw, and chaotic moments we all encounter in our daily lives—the loss, grief, pain, insecurities, and fears all of which can be transformed into resilience. This is a shared beauty we all encounter.
Consider an artist who creates a breathtaking floral painting. It’s not merely a depiction of a flower, it embodies the journey the artist undertook to express themselves, painting in spite of their own insecurities or fears, being brave enough to share their narrative through their lens. The story behind the art is where the real beauty lies. It reflects the struggles of beginning, the life challenges faced by the artist, yet they continue to persevere. These are the courageous individuals who find beauty in a sometimes chaotic world.
Life never ceases to amaze me. Often it presents us with what we truly need, even if it’s not what we desire.
Recently, a friend suggested a podcast I had listened to before, but this time, I approached it with a new perspective. The episode featuring Mel Robbins and Dr. Tara Swart Bieber, MD, PhD. delves into the science of manifestation and our natural ability to change our thought patterns. A neuroscientist explains the brain and soul connection. I have become increasingly fascinated with neuroplasticity and how our minds can forge new neural pathways. This allows us to shift from a negative outlook to a more positive one, discovering the beauty that lies beneath.
The episode is fantastic and filled with valuable insights. One key point that stands out is when Dr. Swart Bieber talks about "selective filtering and ordering." She explains that when our brains operate on autopilot, they're primarily focused on survival prioritizing our fundamental needs above all else. If we continue down this route, we risk overlooking our individual purposes and the joys that enhance our lives. It's crucial to reevaluate what truly matters to us, rather than just focusing on survival. We must trust the soul. Although art, visual creativity, and beauty may appear insignificant compared to survival, they offer joy, connection, and meaning to many. A shift in our priorities is vital.
So, what do you need to prioritize in your mind or heart? What needs to be filtered to the top of the list? How can you begin to view the world through a slightly different lens finding the beauty in the world around us?