An icon painter starts not with Jesus Christ but by finding earth and rubbing. Now what is earth, what are you rubbing in directing?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Artistic representation begins with understanding the material world rather than starting with abstract symbols.
- In plain terms
- Start with earth and rubbing, not with icons or symbols.
- What can you take from it?
- Ground your work in material reality before adding abstract meaning.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is the raw material of your work?
- How do you start a creative project?
Another view
It may limit the power of pure symbolism or spiritual expression.
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