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This is a regular posting-place for the visual and verbal observations of Jamie Treadwell.
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/The pursuit of one thing
12:20 Tuesday 21 February
How does one find simplicity in the midst of so much stuff? Soren Kirkegaard, the 19th century Danish philosopher defines integrity as ‘a heart that desires one thing’. This is a good summary of my own life journey. It also highlights the challenge of this year’s painting project. How do I simplify the complexity of this spectacularly mountainous landscape?
Simplification is not merely cutting things out. It’s cutting out the things that don’t support the intended goal. This includes good things in their own right. Painful to do, yet the key to success.
The attached sketch from Day 6 in Spain is an exercise in simplification. Each key element of the landscape is given one voice. The colour harmony simplified, then augmented by the introduction of three violet lines. The individual tree placed centre stage amidst the supporting actors. The mountain landscape is highlighted by the ridge silhouetted in the distance, the bold foreground brush strokes providing the counterpoint.
How can I simplify my activities today to highlight what really matters?