When we think of the French Impressionist Claude Monet, we often think of his vibrant and colorful landscapes that capture the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere. However, in his later years, Monet became increasingly interested in the subtle and muted beauty of the natural world. One of his most iconic series from this period … Continue reading Is there wabi-sabi-ness in Monet’s Blue Water Lillies?
What is the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that values the beauty of imperfection, transience, and simplicity. Its roots are in the Buddhist philosophy of impermanence and the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Wabi-Sabi has become increasingly popular in contemporary design, art, and architecture, influencing Western aesthetics and design practices. In this essay, I will explore the origins, principles, … Continue reading What is the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
My Dreams were bigger than me
If there was a biography about you, what would the title be?
In the thick off it – A thicket: A Photo Safari in 2022
In the dog days of August, one hopes for a reprieve from the noon-day heat in the shade of trees. This reprieve doesn't come easily on suburban walks along the older main roads... while searching for some shade, I noticed how these cedar hedges were trimmed so aggressively on the road side. I had stop … Continue reading In the thick off it – A thicket: A Photo Safari in 2022
Jolene – A Photo Safari in 2022
On a cold, windy, and cloudy day, one sometimes only sees grey. The question is how to capture that feeling without being too obvious. I happily snapped various vistas and hoped for the best. This one revealed itself in a far corner of another shot... perhaps it was Tom Waits' voicing melancholic moods, and/or the … Continue reading Jolene – A Photo Safari in 2022
Along The Fence – A Photo Safari in 2022
I'm forever looking for interesting visuals to fuel paintings, inspire ceramics, and explore the senses. This one did all three. Back in the 1970s, it seemed like almost every. yard used these waterlogged logs as fencing. They added a rustic warmth to people's homes drove a sense of nostalgia for older, simpler times. To me, … Continue reading Along The Fence – A Photo Safari in 2022
Under The Tracks – Montreal Walls Project – Thirty-Five
On a little walk around the Georges-Vanier & Lucien-Lallier metro stations, there are intriguing brownstones facing the ivy covered walls of the elevated train tracks. Wherever there is a clear space between the vegetation, we find graffiti tags in various stages of decay. The remarkable thing is how vibrant the colours have remained over the … Continue reading Under The Tracks – Montreal Walls Project – Thirty-Five
The terrace garden: a snapshot
Having moved into a waterside condo this past year was a big decision… where do I put my summer energy if I have no garden to play in? We’ve planted a few small things this year: tomatoes, eggplants, kale, peppers, herbs… they are growing slowly.
The New Renaissance Mindset 