Art is born of the observation and investigation of nature
quote by: Marcus Tullius Cicero
When it comes right down to it, there is inspiration everywhere – but I find this is most true in nature. It’s even been said that nature is the art of God. Many artists draw inspiration from the colors, shapes, and textures found in nature, and use them as a foundation for creative endeavors. Nature stimulates all our senses, and each season offers its own rich tapestry and sensational level of detail.
People travel far to experience the changing colors of autumn in New England for good reason. And there is nothing like the ocean on a sunny day in the summer. Things are crisp and clean in the winter after a light snow, and spring bursts with sights, scents, and sounds with the promise of renewal. The many sounds of nature soothe our minds.
Scientific studies have shown that exposure to sounds in nature, such as birdsong or ocean waves, can reduce stress and enhance cognitive function. People often buy noise machines with such sounds and even select them as their mobile ringtone. In the relaxed state triggered by sounds found in nature, individuals often find their minds open to new ideas and creative thinking.
Other studies have shown that visiting green spaces and being exposed to natural environments can reduce psychological stress and enhance your well-being. When we are in a state of being blocked, it‘s stressful.
Have you heard of Earthing? It’s based on the belief that the earth creates energy and relaxation and that being connected to the Earth and nature is essential to restoring and maintaining health and well-being. If this concept interests you, there is an award-winning documentary called: The Earthing Movie, The Remarkable Science of Grounding. It’s available to stream on YouTube.
I was once given a ‘prescription’ to get my hands in the dirt. This was a reference to the therapeutic benefits of gardening and the earth. So many of our senses are ignited in the garden. The colors are extraordinary, and the aromas are intoxicating. Like people, no two flowers are the same and it’s mind-blowing to me how beautiful and unique each one of them can be. It’s inspiring, and that is what we are after. Gardening is another form of art, and engaging in a different medium is a strategy for overcoming artist’s block, so for the purposes of busting through artist’s block, it’s a strategy that feeds two birds with one scone.
There is an entire industry called Biomimicry, which is a practice that learns from and mimics the strategies found in nature to solve human design challenges. It’s about valuing nature for what we can learn – and what we can gain (not take). Many advancements in various industries have been fueled by nature, including art, fashion, and architecture.
From artists seeking visual stimulation to scientists exploring solutions in the natural world, the influence of nature on creativity is undeniable. It very simply has the power to rejuvenate our minds and spark creativity within us. All the benefits of being in nature make it an ideal environment for brainstorming and problem-solving – and an inability to access our creativity, even if just for a short time, can feel like a problem to be solved.
Affirmation: “I am inspired in nature and feel renewed creativity”