John Constable: 'When I sit down to make a sketch from nature, the first thing I try to do is to forget that I have ever seen a picture.'

When I sit down to make a sketch from nature, the first thing I try to do is to forget that I have ever seen a picture.

The quote by John Constable, "When I sit down to make a sketch from nature, the first thing I try to do is to forget that I have ever seen a picture," encapsulates a profound approach to artistic creation. In a straightforward sense, Constable emphasizes the need to approach nature with fresh eyes, free from preconceived notions or influence from existing works of art. This mindset allows artists to see the world as it truly is and capture its essence in their sketches.This quote holds immense importance because it challenges artists to break free from the constraints of imitation and recreate nature authentically. By attempting to forget any previous images or representations they have encountered, artists can tap into their creativity and delve into a more intuitive and genuine interpretation of the world around them. This approach leads to originality and a unique perspective, as the artist is not confined by existing standards or trends but instead is guided solely by the observation and connection with nature at that moment.However, beyond its literal meaning, Constable's quote also raises a fascinating philosophical concept. It prompts us to explore the nature of perception and the subjective lens through which we view the world. Our understanding of reality is shaped by our previous experiences, including the art we have seen. Hence, Constable's idea of forgetting that he has ever seen a picture presents a paradox. Can one truly forget everything they have seen and learned before? Is it possible to perceive the world without any influence from past experiences?This philosophical inquiry invites us to question the nature of perception itself. Perception is an intricate interplay between the external world and our internal framework, shaped by past experiences and knowledge. While it may be difficult to completely detach oneself from previous images and representations, Constable's approach encourages artists to strive for a heightened sense of observation and an unfiltered connection with nature.In essence, the quote by John Constable encapsulates the mindset an artist should embody when sketching from nature. By attempting to forget prior images and representations, artists can tap into their creativity and genuine understanding of the world around them. Furthermore, it sparks a philosophical contemplation about the nature of perception and the subjective lens through which we see the world. While complete detachment from past experiences may be impossible, Constable's words ignite an aspiration for a purer and more intuitive connection with our surroundings. So, the next time you sit down to create, take a moment to forget everything you have seen and allow your art to be a reflection of your unfiltered encounter with the beauty of nature.