It’s funny how people see things differently. I took this photo because all I saw were the joyous pink camellia petals contrasting against the deep black green of the acanthus leaves. My son saw the brooding acanthus leaves and how they felt unapproachable and untouchable. I guess it’s important to remember that we all see the world differently, but it doesn’t always mean that someone is right and someone is wrong. Just a matter of opinion, of perception. That is the brilliance of art - how it brings different viewpoints to the table.
I thought it was appropriate that my first video post for 2025 should be this image. The acanthus leaf has deep historical and symbolic significance. Originating in ancient Greece, the acanthus was initially a symbol of enduring life and regeneration due to its ability to thrive in harsh conditions. In classical architecture, it became a key design element, particularly in Corinthian columns, where its stylised form symbolised beauty, strength, and the natural world’s bounty. The leaf’s intricate, scrolling shape was thought to represent both the flourishing of nature and the divine harmony of the cosmos.
Over time, the acanthus leaf motif spread across Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque art and architecture. Its association with wealth and refinement grew, often appearing in the decoration of palaces, churches, and public monuments. Since 500BCE it has inspired countless artists, sculptors, architects, poets and designers, most notably William Morris who used the acanthus leaf for the design of one of his most famous wallpapers in 1875.
What do you see? Joyous pink petals or brooding acanthus leaves?
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