Cultivate an ever continuous power of observation. Wherever you are, be always ready to make slight notes of postures, groups and incidents. Store up in the mind... a continuous stream of observations from which to make selections later. Above all things get abroad, see the sunlight and everything that is to be seen. - John Singer Sargent
Inspiration, imagination, and ideation are major competences by which I create my art. But I would be without focus and real confidence in my art-making without the power of observation. I believe this true gift of any creator as it is the ability that equally compliments and enriches the labors of inspiration, imagination, and ideation.
What’s amazing about it is that as it becomes part of my rituals of art-making I can more capably create my inspired ideas.
It is through observation that I learn to perceive the majesty in the mundane. I don’t mean “mundane” in the dull humdrum sense but, rather, in the everyday earthly sense. This practice helps me not only to see incredibly beautiful instances and things that are often overlooked (which itself is a noble method), but it empowers me to discern the very nature and character of God, the master artist, and all of His attention to detail in everything. It deepens my trust of who He says He is. For me, there is no greater reason to paint those investigations.
Having this real knowledge is incredibly powerful. Studying the nature of light, for instance, is one of my chief concerns in making art. Taking copious notes of how light actually affects a physical space through varying shapes of light and dark, chasing after nuances of reflected light on various surfaces, and capturing the mood within a room are great joys for me. These studies of light in a room facilitate painting a real presence. Without serious observation the depth of emotion, meaning and truth of the beauty beheld is lost.
As J.M.W. Turner once said, "My business is to paint what I see, not what I know is there."