A Way of Being

To live as an artist is a way of being in the world. A way of perceiving. A practice of paying attention.

- Rick Rubin, The Creative Act: A Way of Being

Ever since starting my creative journey, I've never called myself an artist. I didn't feel worthy of this title as I'm mostly self-taught. I don't call myself a photographer (even though I can spend hours making/editing images), and even cringe/hesitate at being introduced as a calligrapher. Labels and titles make me uncomfortable.

I'm more than my work. I'm more than what I do.

But the quote above resonates deeply: A way of being, a way of perceiving, a practice of paying attention...

These photos may seem like a random mix but they're what I paid attention to on my walk this afternoon to/from meeting a client.

How often do you stop to appreciate a lovely window display (that isn’t bright/loud/glaring in your face)?

How often do you look up at the sky and notice the sunlight trying to break through muted, wispy clouds?

How often do you look at the foliage right outside your home and notice, hey those are (Christmas) holly!

If these things make me an artist, then it's time to fully embrace it. After all, we were created by the ultimate Artist himself.