Beauty in the Mundane: A photo essay

Written by Shannon Langas. Photo by Abby Chadwick.

The concept of beauty in art is often associated with grandeur. As artists, it’s easy to feel that every piece we make has to be imbued with a deeper meaning or some sort of intangible inspiration. I think that’s a little ridiculous! Existence is beauty. Nature is beauty. Humanity is beauty. Sometimes being an artist is just pointing out what’s already there. In that vein, here are some little places where I’ve found beauty lately.

I found this rock tucked under some leaves in the park, and I thought it was really touching that a stranger took the time to craft and share something so cheerful.

I’ve been watching this dandelion for days. The rain finally made it bloom!

The trees at Forsyth Park never cease to amaze— plus, they make lots of shady spots to sketch on the weekend.

Lonely flower found on my walk to class. The unexpected pop of color was a nice surprise.

This was the clearest sky I’d seen in days. Taking a moment to drink in the rays in between classes.

Rounding it out with a coffee from Bitty & Beau’s. The notes on their cups make for a great midterm pick-me-up!