Monday, March 31, 2014

We ascribe beauty to that which is simple; which has no superfluous parts; which exactly answers its end; which stands related to all things; which is the mean of many extremes.

                                                                      Ralph Waldo Emerson

 This recent painting perfectly captures the essence of Emerson's observation about simplicity.  One flower blooming in a pot accompanied by one perfectly shaped pear serves as a lovely reminder of the order of nature.  Even though the linen appears at first to be in disarray the overall composition of the pot, the pear, and the cloth is one of symmetry and clear design.  Even in the busiest of paintings, even in the seemingly chaos of an abstract work, simplicity must exist to bring harmony to the piece.  It may take a while to discern ~ it may not be evident at first glance, but it's there.  Trust me.    

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