"الرسم مهنة الأعمى. إنه لا يرسم ما يراه، بل ما يشعر به، ما يخبر نفسه عن ما رآه."

When discussing the essence of painting, it's fascinating to think about how much of it is rooted in emotion and perception rather than just the visual. At its core, the idea is that painting goes beyond mere replication of visual scenes—it captures and conveys the artist's internal world, their feelings and interpretations. This is what makes art so compelling and deeply personal. It's not just about what the eyes see; it's about the inner dialogue and emotional resonance that the artist brings to the canvas.

Historically, this idea can be connected to the broader movements in art, like Expressionism, where the goal was to depict the world not as it is seen, but as it is felt. Artists like Edvard Munch with his famous piece “The Scream” didn’t just show a person screaming, but rather conveyed the intense emotions of anxiety and existential dread. That kind of painting goes beyond the visual—it digs deep into the human experience.

Let’s bring this into a more relatable, real-life setting. Imagine a young artist named Jamie who is passionate about capturing the essence of a bustling city street. If Jamie were to simply paint what they see, it might be a technically perfect representation of buildings, cars, and people. But Jamie’s goal is different. They want to capture the vibrancy, the chaos, the energy—the feeling of being there. So, instead of a precise, detailed depiction, Jamie uses bold, sweeping brush strokes and vibrant colors to express the dynamic atmosphere. The painting might not look exactly like the street, but anyone who views it will get a sense of that lived experience.

Now, how do we apply this wisdom in our own lives, whether we’re artists or not? Think about how you approach your own creative projects or even daily tasks. Don’t just focus on the surface details. Try to tap into the deeper emotions and meanings behind what you’re doing. If you’re writing a story, don’t just describe the scenes—immerse your readers in the emotions of your characters. If you’re giving a presentation, don’t just present the facts—connect with your audience through storytelling and personal anecdotes that convey your passion and perspective.

Imagine sitting in a coffee shop, chatting with a friend about a vacation you both took together. Instead of listing out every place you visited, you start talking about how you felt standing on that mountain top, the overwhelming sense of peace and awe. Your friend’s face lights up, they remember it too—not just the sights, but the shared emotions. That’s the power of conveying what you feel, not just what you saw.

So next time you’re trying to capture a moment, whether in art, writing, or even conversation, remember to dig deep. Think about what that moment meant to you, how it felt, and let that guide you. Just like an artist who paints not just what’s in front of them, but the rich tapestry of their inner world. This approach doesn’t just create a more vivid and engaging result—it makes your work, and your life, more authentic and deeply felt.