Dots on Bouquet – 20 x 24.5cm – 2023 – oil/ acrylic on canvas – frame included (36 x 31.5cm)
 
Arousing the ability to see beyond the frontal view and regard what is different. Diversity of all types and celebrate individuality. The surface is eradicated when you know it’s just the surface. Being open to great many perspectives of vision and seeing with eyes and heart open.
The fact that there are a multitude of dots on top of an old mustard color painting clashes the f#low of experiencing the #bouquet in its normal format. With now 5 ‘grounds’ the main being the #midground : the distance between the bouquet and the back of the dots. This new perceived distance is about 40 cm.
This is regarded as a safe zone. The colors add a sense of #comfort to hide against the brutality of real yet existential issues.
The human brain is wired to recognize patterns and categorize things based on past experiences and learned biases. This can lead to a phenomenon known as "confirmation bias," where we tend to seek out information that confirms our existing beliefs and ignore or dismiss information that contradicts them. However, by actively working to arouse the ability to see beyond what is directly in front of us and regard what is different, we can begin to break free from these limitations and expand our understanding of the world around us.
One way to do this is by exposing ourselves to diverse perspectives and experiences. When we engage with people from different #backgrounds, #cultures, and identities, we gain insight into their unique ways of thinking and problem-solving. We learn to appreciate the richness of human experience and the many factors that shape our individual realities. By embracing diversity in all its forms, we cultivate empathy and compassion, which are essential for building strong relationships and creating a more inclusive society.
Moreover, celebrating individuality is an integral part of this process. Each person has their own distinct #voice, style, and approach to life. When we acknowledge and value these #differences, we create an environment where everyone feels seen and heard. This fosters creativity, innovation, and personal growth, as people feel empowered to express themselves authentically. In contrast, a homogenized culture stifles progress and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
Another crucial aspect of developing this ability to see beyond the surface is learning to distinguish between what is superficial and what is meaningful. Like an iceberg, most of what we encounter in life is hidden beneath the surface. To truly understand something, we must be willing to explore its depths. For instance, when interacting with someone, it's easy to focus solely on their appearance or immediate behavior. However, by doing so, we miss out on the complexity of their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. By being open to multiple perspectives of vision and seeing with both our eyes and hearts open, we can uncover the intricate details and nuances that make each person and situation unique.
This requires intentional effort and practice. It involves asking questions, listening actively, and seeking out various sources of information to gain a comprehensive understanding. It also means challenging our #preconceptions and #biases, acknowledging discomfort, and being willing to change our minds when presented with new evidence or arguments.
Ultimately, the benefits of developing this skill extend far beyond personal growth. As we become more adept at recognizing and valuing diversity, we contribute to a more equitable and just society. By celebrating #individuality and exploring the depths of human experience, we foster a culture of inclusion, empathy, and understanding. This allows us to build stronger communities, break down barriers, and work towards a brighter future for all.
In conclusion, arousing the ability to see beyond what is in front and regard what is different is a powerful tool for personal and societal transformation. By embracing diversity, celebrating individuality, and distinguishing between the surface and substance, we can develop a deeper understanding of the world and the people around us. Through active practice and intention, we can break free from the constraints of confirmation bias and expand our perspectives, leading to greater #empathy, #creativity, and #progress.