Revisiting My Landscapes

Eric Buechel
Jun 10, 2017
3 min read

Updated: Apr 14

Exploration of Landscape Painting as a Reflection of Identity

Landscape painting is the one thing I do that truly represents who I am in every way. It serves as a profound reflection of my inner self, intertwining my emotions, experiences, and aspirations. This artistic journey began in my early childhood, when I first picked up a crayon and was captivated by the vibrant colors of nature. The allure of vast fields, towering mountains, and serene waters drew me into the world of art, creating a lasting bond that has shaped my identity over the years. From the moment I could hold a crayon, landscapes drew me into the world of art. I remember vividly the excitement of capturing the essence of a sunset with bold strokes of orange and pink, or the tranquility of a quiet forest with gentle greens and browns. Each piece I created was not merely an image on paper; it was a portal to a deeper understanding of the world around me. The act of painting landscapes became a ritual, a way to reconnect with the beauty that exists beyond the confines of daily life. It's just me and the brush striving to match the magnificence of nature. In these moments, I find solace and purpose, lost in the rhythm of my movements as I blend colors and textures. The canvas transforms into a reflection of my thoughts and feelings, a dialogue between my inner world and the external environment. I strive to capture not just the physical attributes of the landscape, but also the emotions they evoke within me. Each stroke is a testament to my admiration for nature's grandeur and a challenge to myself to convey that beauty authentically. It's an opportunity to express everything within me that drives me to challenge nature's splendor. Through landscape painting, I confront the complexities of my emotions and the world I inhabit. The act of creating becomes a cathartic release, allowing me to explore themes of freedom, solitude, and connection. I often find myself pondering the intricate balance between humanity and nature, and my paintings reflect this ongoing exploration. The landscapes I portray are not just representations; they are a narrative of my journey, filled with the nuances of my experiences and the lessons learned along the way. Yet, I understand that, in the end, it's just an impression of the greatness of nature that I seek. No matter how skilled I become, I recognize that my work can only ever be a fleeting glimpse of the true beauty that exists in the natural world. This realization humbles me and fuels my passion even further. I aim to create pieces that invite viewers to pause and reflect, to feel a connection to the landscapes that inspire me as much as they inspire my brush. This might be why I paint large, expansive landscapes—the kind I wish to step into and explore what's beyond the horizon. The scale of my work is intentional; I want the viewer to feel enveloped by the scene, as if they can physically enter the world I have created. These expansive vistas invite contemplation and wonder, encouraging an exploration of the unknown. Each canvas becomes an invitation to journey into the depths of nature's beauty, to wander through fields of wildflowers, scale majestic cliffs, or traverse serene lakes. Ultimately, my landscape paintings are not just about capturing a scene; they are about inviting others to share in the experience of discovery and the joy of connecting with the natural world.