Lovely piece, Elizabeth. You might enjoy reading about contemplative photography / Miksang, and also mindful photography (search Look Again by Ruth Davey). It’s one of the best things about photography for me — it allows me to notice things I would otherwise overlook. I usually practice it with food and plants, but it’s definitely made me notice everyday things more too.
Thanks so much for the recommendations, Giovanna. I’m always amazed at what our eyes don’t take in when we take a photograph. It’s only when we look at the captured shot that we really notice the details. I will definitely look up both the book and the practice. No wonder your photos rae so riveting! 💕
Inspiring as always, Elizabeth. Richard is a gem that every arts organisation wants. Where was he when I needed someone like him? It's so interesting how it takes time to recongise our own gifts. But also to acknowledge them even if everyone around us is pointing at them.
I saw Elif's piece and then did research into the painting. Although the point isn't in research but in looking/seeing. One year, frustrated by people taking photos of the paintings instead of looking at them, I took photos of people taking photos. Needless to say, both they and I were losers in that gallery arena.
A few years ago we adopted a strategy when visiting places like the Met in NY or the Louvre (not something that happens often in the normal course to begin with). We use a museum map and focus on one section we haven’t seen fully—e.g., musical instruments or Ancient Near Eastern Art. We’ll never get through everything but at least we’re not fighting for a spot to sit and contemplate 💕
I am so happy that I follow your writing and get to benefit from your thoughtful pieces. And I have never been a fish stew person, but my husband loves it and now I may have to try this!
Fish stew is a delightful alternative to a vegetable only or stew made with meat. It’s something I’ve been doing more recently and thoroughly enjoying.
Thank you Kalee—that really means a lot 💕. I’ve also been enjoying your posts and reflections; in many ways it seems like we’re exploring very similar ideas. I really do appreciate this wonderful Substack community!
That’s so great, Amie! If you have a chance, read Elif Shafak’s post that inspired this one. Lots of great thoughts on creativity. And she is a wonderful writer too—her book, The Island of Missing Trees, was a favourite in my book club this year.
I’m going to have to chew on that (and I don’t mean the fish soup), to take in all of what can be gained by savouring your words. I think I’ll start by asking, “What am I missing?”
Looking without seeing, is a curse of these times.
Excellent piece Elizabeth.
It’s such an easy trap to fall into, isn’t it? Using slowness as a life lens works in so many moments, I think.
Lovely piece, Elizabeth. You might enjoy reading about contemplative photography / Miksang, and also mindful photography (search Look Again by Ruth Davey). It’s one of the best things about photography for me — it allows me to notice things I would otherwise overlook. I usually practice it with food and plants, but it’s definitely made me notice everyday things more too.
Thanks so much for the recommendations, Giovanna. I’m always amazed at what our eyes don’t take in when we take a photograph. It’s only when we look at the captured shot that we really notice the details. I will definitely look up both the book and the practice. No wonder your photos rae so riveting! 💕
Inspiring as always, Elizabeth. Richard is a gem that every arts organisation wants. Where was he when I needed someone like him? It's so interesting how it takes time to recongise our own gifts. But also to acknowledge them even if everyone around us is pointing at them.
I saw Elif's piece and then did research into the painting. Although the point isn't in research but in looking/seeing. One year, frustrated by people taking photos of the paintings instead of looking at them, I took photos of people taking photos. Needless to say, both they and I were losers in that gallery arena.
Trophy hunting for art has become a blood sport!
A few years ago we adopted a strategy when visiting places like the Met in NY or the Louvre (not something that happens often in the normal course to begin with). We use a museum map and focus on one section we haven’t seen fully—e.g., musical instruments or Ancient Near Eastern Art. We’ll never get through everything but at least we’re not fighting for a spot to sit and contemplate 💕
That's a great strategy. You should trademark it.
I am so happy that I follow your writing and get to benefit from your thoughtful pieces. And I have never been a fish stew person, but my husband loves it and now I may have to try this!
Fish stew is a delightful alternative to a vegetable only or stew made with meat. It’s something I’ve been doing more recently and thoroughly enjoying.
I agree! It’s healthy and satisfying at the same time.
Thank you Kalee—that really means a lot 💕. I’ve also been enjoying your posts and reflections; in many ways it seems like we’re exploring very similar ideas. I really do appreciate this wonderful Substack community!
Agreed!
This is so beautiful, Elizabeth. Thank you!
Thank you Barb! I appreciate your kind words 💕
This is just what I needed—I’m using it as a writing prompt to start each day this week. And your husband is a wonderful example!
That’s so great, Amie! If you have a chance, read Elif Shafak’s post that inspired this one. Lots of great thoughts on creativity. And she is a wonderful writer too—her book, The Island of Missing Trees, was a favourite in my book club this year.
I enjoyed the deeper dive—and that painting!
Well, Richard sounds just wonderful Elizabeth! I am glad he realized his super powers. And Jan is right, these are absolute words to savour. ❤️
Thank you Shell—I’m pretty lucky, that’s for sure 💕
I love having you as a Monday morning reader!
I’m going to have to chew on that (and I don’t mean the fish soup), to take in all of what can be gained by savouring your words. I think I’ll start by asking, “What am I missing?”
The fish soup is definitely not for you, but I hope the words inspire 🥰