On Nature, On Roots: The Importance of Going Back to the Basics
Nothing is invented, for it’s written in nature first. Originality consists of returning to the roots. - Antoni Gaudi
In today's fast-paced, ever-changing world, it's easy to get caught up in the latest trends and forget about the basics. But as the famous architect Antoni Gaudi once said, "Nothing is invented, for it's written in nature first. Originality consists of returning to the roots." In other words, before we can move forward, we must first understand where we came from. And there's no better place to look for understanding than nature.
From the branching veins of a leaf to the unfurling petals of a flower, nature is full of patterns and shapes that have inspired artists and designers for centuries. In fact, many of the world's most iconic designs—think the Eiffel Tower or the Chrysler Building—were inspired by natural forms. So what is it about nature that is so captivating? Let's take a closer look.
One explanation is that we find symmetry and balance visually pleasing because they're indicative of good health and genetic fitness (both in people and in nature). Studies have even shown that looking at images of nature can reduce stress levels and blood pressure!
The wonder of nature doesn't just stop at its appearance, though. There's also the fascinating way that everything in an ecosystem works together to create harmony.
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing and fascinatingly complex, nature can also be a great source of inspiration—especially for artists and designers. After all, as Gaudi himself said, "Nothing is invented, for it’s written in nature first."
One designer who was particularly inspired by nature was Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. Aalto drew much of his inspiration from Nordic landscapes, using soft curves and natural materials to create buildings that seemed to flow seamlessly with their surroundings. In fact, his Helsinki home—including furniture designed by Aalto himself—is now considered one of the most significant examples of 20th century domestic architecture!
Another artist who found inspiration in nature was British sculptor Henry Moore. Moore was fascinated by how rocks he found on walks near his home looked like they had been eroded over time by water or wind—a process he called "nature making art." He sought to replicate this effect in his own sculptures by carving soft curves into hard materials like stone or wood. The result was a series of beautifully organic sculptures that looked as though they could have been created by Mother Nature herself!
Nature has been inspiring artists and designers for centuries—and for good reason! Not only is nature aesthetically pleasing, but it is also fascinatingly complex and teeming with symbiotic relationships. By taking the time to appreciate the natural world around us, we can not only find peace and relaxation but also gain a greater understanding of where we came from—and where we should go next.
