Rules


20

Rules


Like everything else in life art has its rules. Make sure that you learn about the focal point and then you need to learn about perspective. Having learned that, one has to learn about composition. If we do not follow the rules of composition the painting or work will look like just a jumble of pieces.

Then there is the rule of making sure that all the elements of the work are in agreement. With the shapes, lines, and tone all in harmony.

Next, we need to decide on the colour palette. Are we seeking a saturation of colour? Where is the light coming from and how do we convey that? Shadows and darks must be in accord with the light.

It is also wise to be conscious of the negative spaces. One rule after another. This is true also of composing a piece of music; it too has rules that it is wise to follow. Of course, these are the rules for painting, but every other creative process will have its rules also.

Such things can cause all sorts of confusions, the difference between right and wrong, success and failure. The person new to the process of making art or writing verse becomes afraid and often the brush or the pen is laid aside.

We can desire to do things but end up giving up because it seems far too difficult and confusing. Maybe it is better not to begin and be like others and just enjoy life as it is.

We become enveloped in negative thinking. Why can I not just be as others? I am the fool. The confused. Others seem happy clear and bright while I am lost and bewildered.

Here, the sage tells us that it is unwise to overthink things. When the mind is too busy and full of thoughts and confusion we will never learn to just relax and perform. The performance will be hampered.

Clear the mind and take things slowly a step at a time. Eliminate much of the planning and thinking and go with the natural rhythms of life.

If this is true for arts and creation so it is true for everything else. Stop fretting about the results and things happen in spite of you. One thing is very true, in all matters, nothing will be achieved if we never make a start. 


 The added sentence had to be put where it was not a new paragraph to stay all on the same page in word but I thought I needed to add those.

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