Artist Quote by Natalie Goldberg
““... I think I intuitively suspected that perspective would put me outside the painting. I didn't want that. I wanted to get close to those tables and chairs, to jump in and feel myself dancing with them, even as I sat drawing them. I didn't want things to lie down; I wanted them to come forward, to beckon and call, to be noticed on the paper as I was noticing them in real life. I wanted the viewer to have a direct connection with the objects, to feel as happy as I was in their presence.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Writing Down the Bones, Natalie Goldberg, 1986
The artist seeks to merge with subjects, inviting them forward onto the page, creating a lively, shared experience.
In simple terms: Make art feel alive by connecting directly with subjects.
Key Takeaway
Engage deeply with what you depict.
Themes
creativity
presence
embodiment
artistic connection
Mood
inspired
energetic
Type
artistic
instructional
When to use this quote
- portrait drawing
- live sketching
- performance art
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
Embodied cognition
visual storytelling
mindful observation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you stay present without losing perspective?
- What techniques help you invite subjects onto the page?
A Different Perspective
Focusing too much on immersion may limit critical distance and composition balance.
