Aristotle possibly once said, "The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance." As I look backwards through my artistic journey, this statement has resonated with the way I approach my work. Art, to me, has always been more than a visual experience; it is a language that speaks to the soul, exploring deeper truths that transcend the surface of what we see.
Throughout my career, I’ve consistently returned to the idea that art is not merely about the subject matter or the precision with which it is depicted. While outward beauty holds value, what truly captivates me is the inner essence—the meaning and emotion that lie beneath the form. My work is often inspired by nature, particularly the Hawthorn tree that stood outside my childhood window. In painting that tree, I am not only capturing its form but delving into the memories and feelings it evokes, exploring the deeper connection between myself and the natural world. The outward appearance of the tree is just the starting point; its inward significance is where my true focus lies.
Aristotle’s words have encouraged me to move beyond realism and embrace abstraction and symbolism in my work. I’ve found that the inward significance of a subject can often be expressed more powerfully through colour, movement, and texture rather than through literal representation. When I paint the Hawthorn tree in vibrant pinks or bold greens, I’m conveying not just its physical attributes, but the feelings of resilience, renewal, and interconnectedness it embodies for me. This tree, which has been a recurring theme in my work, represents far more than its outward appearance; it serves as a symbol of life’s cycles, of growth, and of my own personal journey.
This idea of inward significance is something I explore through my use of colour and form. I’ve always been drawn to bold, expressive hues that push beyond mere representation. The bright, energetic colours I use are a way to communicate the emotions that lie beneath the surface of the subject, whether it’s the vibrant pinks of a blossoming tree or the deep blues of a calming horizon. For me, colour is an essential tool for revealing what is unseen—the energy, the tension, and the emotion that bring the subject to life.
As I continue to explore themes of environmentalism and forest sustainability, the inward significance of the natural world has become a central focus in my work. My goal is not simply to depict trees or landscapes, but to capture the fragile beauty of ecosystems, the urgent need for preservation, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
I’ve found that this approach allows me to convey more than just an appreciation for nature—it lets me express my concern, my hope, and my call for action. The Hawthorn tree, once a symbol of my personal memories, has evolved into a representation of our shared responsibility to the environment. The tree, after all, does not exist in isolation—it is part of a larger ecosystem, just as we are. This realization has shifted the narrative in my work, moving from a focus on individual beauty to a broader conversation about the interconnectedness of all life on earth. I strive to capture this duality, offering viewers not just a visual experience but an invitation to explore what lies beneath.
In conclusion, Aristotle’s words help to shape my approach to art and the way I create. Art is not just about capturing what we see, but about communicating what we feel, what we fear, and what we hope for. The inward significance of a subject is where true art begins, and it is this philosophy that drives my work forward.
Exploring Inward Significance in Art: Reflections on a Journey
Art is not just about capturing what we see, but about communicating what we feel, what we fear, and what we hope for.
