Beauty is like strolling through an art museum. Initially, the diverse collection of artworks draws you in. Some pieces instantly seize your attention, their allure is undeniable, like a magnetic force that draws your gaze. Others, however, challenge your preconceptions of beauty. They compel you to pause and contemplate, their unfamiliarity sparking curiosity. while others evoke a sense of intrigue as you encounter unfamiliar forms of beauty. Each piece possesses a unique charm and allure, just as beauty in the world can manifest itself in countless forms. Some artworks, like the stunning masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci or the bold and expressive creations of Jean Michel Basquiat, instantly captivate your attention. Their beauty is so undeniable that it’s almost impossible to look away, much like meeting a person whose attractiveness is immediately apparent.
However, in the world of art, as in life, you also come across pieces that make you tilt your head in wonder. For these masterpieces, you might need someone to explain them to you because your lenses are not equipped to fully capture the beauty of said masterpiece. It doesn’t make it ugly, it’s just not for you” – Some artworks are enigmatic, requiring a guide to unlock their deeper meaning. It’s not that they lack beauty; rather, they exist on a plane beyond your immediate comprehension. Just because you don’t fully grasp their allure doesn’t render them ugly. They simply cater to a different perspective or taste.
These works may challenge your preconceived notions of beauty, just as people who appear different from your cultural or aesthetic norm might. It’s essential to recognize that beauty is not one-dimensional; it is a spectrum encompassing a multitude of perspectives and interpretations. When faced with such art or individuals, it doesn’t mean that they lack beauty; it simply implies that they may not be within your immediate resonance. It’s a reminder that beauty is subjective and multifaceted.
In a way similar to the experience of visiting a local art museum, where your appreciation of beauty is often shaped by the art of your immediate community, where your concept of beauty often revolves around the artistic expressions of your immediate community. It’s in those moments when you venture beyond the confines of familiarity and explore renowned institutions such as the Louvre, the Metropolitan Museum, the British Museum, or the Vatican Museum, that you find yourself in a new realm of sensory experiences. These cultural treasure troves house masterpieces that have the power to awe and astonish, leaving you feeling both disoriented and overwhelmed.
Within these hallowed halls, you come face to face with artistic marvels like the enigmatic Mona Lisa and the iconic Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci, the swirling and mesmerizing Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, the bold and thought-provoking Mecca by Jean-Michel Basquiat, and the divine grandeur of Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam. Each of these masterpieces possesses a unique ability to transport you into a realm of wonder and amazement, far removed from the familiar confines of your everyday life. Just by being in the presence of these artistic treasures, you’re likely to be struck by a sense of awe and wonder that transcends the boundaries of your prior artistic encounters.
These encounters with art on a grand scale can have a transformative impact on your understanding of beauty. They stretch the boundaries of your perception and challenge your preconceived notions of what is aesthetically captivating. The brushstrokes, the colors, the symbolism, and the sheer magnitude of these artworks force you to reconsider your previous definitions of beauty, expanding your horizons and exposing you to the limitless diversity of human creativity. It is within the walls of these celebrated institutions that your concept of beauty takes flight, soaring to new heights and broadening your appreciation for the artistry that enriches our world.
The encounter with such timeless masterpieces not only elevates your appreciation for beauty but also nurtures a deeper understanding of the boundless diversity and creativity of human expression. In the halls of these renowned museums, the definition of beauty becomes a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry, and you, the curious explorer, are left with an enriched perspective that transcends the confines of your previous aesthetic boundaries.
To appreciate the rich tapestry of global art, it’s crucial to acknowledge the constraints of your own perspective. Your lenses are shaped by your upbringing and experiences, and they don’t invalidate the existence of other forms of art and beauty. They simply provide a framework through which you perceive the world. Similarly, in the realm of human interactions, meeting people who don’t resemble you should not automatically lead to labeling them as unattractive or strange. Being accustomed to individuals who share your background, appearance, or culture does not diminish the beauty of those who differ from you. Instead, it should motivate you to broaden your horizons. Embrace the idea that beauty manifests in diverse ways, and unfamiliarity shouldn’t be equated with inferiority.
Traveling, meeting people from different cultures, and immersing yourself in their traditions and perspectives can be a transformative experience. It’s a two-way street; if you are unwilling to see the beauty in others, they may feel the same way about you. By embracing diversity and seeking to understand what makes people unique, you can unlock the beauty that lies within each individual and foster a more inclusive and harmonious world.
Furthermore, it’s important to recognize that not all forms of art are universally appreciated or accessible. Just as not everyone can discern the beauty in abstract art like Basquiat’s or the classical brilliance of da Vinci, not everyone can afford to own such masterpieces. Beauty is not limited to a single standard; it is a tapestry of various tastes, preferences, and possibilities. The key is to be open-minded and accepting of the diversity of beauty that exists in the world, whether in art or in people.
Understanding the uniqueness of each individual is vital. God is the master painter, and everything He creates is a masterpiece. He creates masterpieces without comparison or competition. Each person is crafted uniquely, not to compete for value or worth, but to stand out in their own right. Your worth is not determined by the limited perception of others but by your creator, God. God values each of His children and created them so differently so they can stand out individually, without the need to compete for worth or validation from those who may not recognize their beauty or worth. Recognizing your intrinsic worth, independent of external validation, is crucial. If someone fails to see your value, it’s their loss, not a reflection of your worth.
Your job is to understand where your worth comes from: your master creator, God Himself. If people can appreciate the worth of the Mona Lisa but struggle to see your worth as a living, breathing masterpiece, the issue lies with them, not with you. Your worth is not dependent on the judgments of others. It’s your responsibility to recognize your intrinsic worth, to understand that you are loved.
Look into the mirror and proclaim, “I radiate beauty, I am more than sufficient, I hold significance, I possess individuality, I am destined for greater things, I am divinely chosen. I acknowledge my true self. I embrace self-love. I am exactly what I declare myself to be.”
You are a rare piece of art queen, a masterpiece of God’s creation, and that is a truth that no one can diminish. You are that you are. Your identity is shaped by God’s declaration of who you are.
Again, It’s not your responsibility to convince others of your worth; by the time they realize it, they may only have access to you from afar. Your task is to acknowledge your inherent worth and KNOW that you are a rare piece of art in the grand gallery of life.
