106. Blogging, nature, and creative expression

A curvy starry sky as seen through a deep canyon

Introduction

Blogging began as a simple way to express my thoughts, but over time it evolved into an art form—a way to convey complex ideas and emotions through imagery, metaphor, and creative storytelling. The principle of "show, don’t tell" has been central to this evolution, teaching me how to use the natural world and creative expression to craft narratives that resonate with others. This blog explores how the intersection of blogging, nature, and the art of showing has shaped my journey of self-expression, including the creation of my schizophrenic art, which I sell on my website.

Finding my voice through blogging and nature

When I first started blogging, I was focused on telling my story—explaining my thoughts, sharing my experiences, and expressing my opinions. But as I continued to write, I realized that the most powerful stories are not those that simply tell, but those that show—those that allow the reader to see, feel, and experience the narrative in their own way. This realization was a turning point in my blogging journey, and it was deeply influenced by my connection to nature.

Nature, with its vivid imagery and sensory richness, provided the perfect inspiration for this shift in my writing. Instead of simply describing an experience, I began to use natural metaphors and imagery to convey the emotions and themes underlying my stories. A walk in the forest, the sound of rain, the sight of a sunset—these elements of nature became tools for showing my readers what I was feeling, allowing them to connect with my stories on a deeper level.

The power of imagery in storytelling and art

One of the key lessons I’ve learned from both blogging and nature is the power of imagery in storytelling and art. Just as a photograph can capture the essence of a moment, a well-crafted image in writing or a piece of art can convey emotions and ideas that words alone cannot. By using imagery, I can paint a picture for my readers and viewers, inviting them to step into the world I’m describing and to experience it for themselves.

My schizophrenic art is an extension of this approach. Each piece I create is a visual representation of the patterns, thoughts, and emotions that flow through my mind. Like the natural world, which often serves as my inspiration, my art is layered, intricate, and full of hidden meanings. It’s a way for me to show the complexity of my experiences without needing to explain them in words. Through my art, I invite others to explore these complexities with me, offering a glimpse into the unique perspective that schizophrenia brings to my creative process.

Metaphor and symbolism: nature’s role in my writing and art

Metaphor and symbolism are powerful tools for showing rather than telling, and nature is full of both. A tree standing tall in a storm can symbolize resilience, a river flowing through rocky terrain can represent perseverance, and a blooming flower can be a metaphor for growth and renewal. By incorporating these natural symbols into my writing and art, I can convey complex ideas and emotions in a way that is both accessible and profound.

In my blog, I often use nature as a metaphor for the challenges and triumphs of life. For instance, I might compare the process of personal growth to the changing seasons—spring as a time of new beginnings, summer as a period of flourishing, autumn as a time of reflection, and winter as a time of rest and renewal. These metaphors help to illustrate the cyclical nature of life, showing that each phase has its purpose and that growth is an ongoing process. My art, too, reflects these natural cycles, using patterns and forms inspired by nature to explore themes of resilience, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all things.

Creative expression: the intersection of art and blogging

Blogging has become a form of creative expression for me, where I can experiment with different styles, tones, and techniques to convey my message. The principle of "show, don’t tell" has been central to this creative exploration, encouraging me to think more deeply about how I communicate my ideas. By focusing on showing, I’ve been able to craft more engaging and impactful stories, ones that resonate with readers and invite them to reflect on their own experiences.

My schizophrenic art is another facet of this creative expression. Through my art, I can explore the complexities of my mind in a way that complements my writing. Each piece is a visual narrative, rich with the same metaphors and symbols that I use in my blog. By combining art with writing, I’ve created a holistic approach to storytelling, where words and images work together to convey the full depth of my experiences. Selling my art on my website has allowed me to share this journey with a wider audience, offering others a way to connect with the themes and emotions that drive my creative work.

Conclusion: embracing the art of showing in blogging and art

The principle of "show, don’t tell" has transformed my blogging journey, allowing me to craft stories that are rich in imagery, metaphor, and creative expression. By drawing on the natural world for inspiration and incorporating these elements into both my writing and my schizophrenic art, I’ve been able to convey complex emotions and ideas in a way that resonates with others. As I continue to blog and create art, I am committed to embracing this art of showing, using the beauty and complexity of nature to enhance my storytelling and to connect with others on a deeper level.

The reference artwork

Previous
Previous

107. Blogging, nature, and the reflection on mortality

Next
Next

105. Words, nature, and blogging