I deal with contrast a lot. If a piece of art or a photograph does not have enough contrast, it will not print well, you can’t see what’s in the picture. M-W.com defines contrast as the difference or degree of difference between things having similar or comparable nature.
Without contrast, there is no image; either there is a blank canvas or the canvas is full of similar components. Some prefer just enough contrast to have what they consider to be soft and relaxing, others prefer what I would call clutter. In art, I like an intense arrangement of dissimilar elements, I believe contrast creates passion. I do not see how one could be passionate about something that is barely visible or too chaotic. But, as we all know, art is subjective…
How do you react when something enters your experience that is very different from your preference? When the situation seems to be polar opposite, do you feel vulnerable and weak or excited and energized?
When people enter your life, you notice either your similarities or your differences. You may use that to determine whether you like them or not. You will notice all the things you have in common with a new friend, but when you decide not to be friends with someone or don’t like someone on first impression, you will focus on the contrast.
In life, my preference is to be challenged just enough for growth. I don’t want everybody to agree with me, but I do like to share my space with people who have similar interests. There is comfort in similarities.
Children encourage growth. They are always ready for a new experience. My daughter sees right through me and my son is exactly like me. I see what I like and dislike about myself in my son and I see how much simpler life could be through my daughter’s eyes. They are very different but appreciate what they have to teach each other.
I believe we live for contrast. Once we embrace a moment that is full of opposition we can see what we really want. Like the Ying and the Yang; Without light there is not darkness and without darkness you don’t notice the light. I challenge you to say, “That is what I want” instead of focusing on, ‘that is what I do not want’. It will change your life.
Denice Barton
