Nature’s Textures

“The texture of our universe is one where there is no question at all but that good and laughter and justice will prevail.”

Desmond Tutu

FROND

FROND

In the strictest sense, texture refers to the look or feel of a thing, but as in Mr. Scott’s opening quote, it can also take on a more abstract meaning. Could it not refer to the texture of relationships, environments, our very lives?

AUTUMN'S VICTIM

AUTUMN’S VICTIM

“The texture of my own mind renders me very indifferent to the rest of the world.”

George Combe

There are people who have richly textured lives – beyond work and family they seem able to maintain interests in things like the arts, music, philanthropy, sports, education and any number of other areas. Perhaps the much-maligned “Jack of all Trades, Master of None” is not such a terrible thing after all.

BLUE AND GREEN

TEXTURED WATERS

“Art is the colors and textures of your imagination.”

Meghan Trainor

Beyond our various interests, perhaps the texture of our lives could be enriched by focus on what’s right with the world rather than what’s wrong. Surely there are as many things to be happy about as there are subjects deserving of complaint.

ROCK OF AGES

ROCK OF AGES

“The past becomes a texture, an ambience to our present.”

Paul Scott

Finally, I would suggest that nature in all her abundance can add layers of texture to our lives if we will only let her.  A walk in the woods, a stroll on the beach or a simple quiet moment in our own backyard can soothe the soul and refresh the spirit as nothing else.  Here then, a few more examples of nature’s textures.

SAND, SEA AND SUNSET'S REFLECTION

SAND, SEA AND SUNSET’S REFLECTION

“It’s a man’s world they say; but in its daily textures it is a world created by and for women.”

John Updike

DEEP-ROOTED

DEEP-ROOTED

“Extinction rates soar and the texture of life changes.”

Elizabeth Kolbert

GREEN

GREEN

“I think great romance demands great obstacles and textures.”

Ang Lee

SWEETGRASS AND DEW

SWEETGRASS AND DEW

“The eyes’ perception of texture is pale compared to the lips’.”

Laini Taylor

Here’s wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead.

WPC – Textures

127 thoughts on “Nature’s Textures

  1. Hi Tina, the photos look great, and truly are a pure expression of Nature’s beauty.
    I am curious as to what type of camera you use for your photos. Do you have any special recommendations? I am looking into investing into a great camera for my travel adventures. I travel quite regularly, and I do feel the need of an additional device for my travel photos. Thanks for your suggestions!

    • Hi Clem, first thanks for the lovely comment. I shoot w a Nikon D300s DSLR but my lenses are more important. I use a Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 which is fantastic. I am about to invest in a new, lighter rig for travel, probably a Fuji or Panasonic. Go to dpreview.com for an excellent comparison of all brands. If I were just starting I’d go w a mirror less and a good zoom for travel. Hope that helps!

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  2. What beautiful photos and your words are spot on. I also love some of the quotes and as an artist, I particularly like this one: ““Art is the colors and textures of your imagination.” So true.

  3. The sweetgrass and dew is my fav of the post – yet they all flowed so well…
    but that one could be so many things.
    I could imagine it on display at an art show -like yarn from a sweater….
    or possibly a coffee table item…. perhaps something Pier 1 sold…
    anyhow, still chewing on this: “refer to the texture of relationships, environments, our very lives…”
    enjoyed this take on texture….

  4. Hi Tina your textures have broadened ny vocabularly. up to 10 minutes ago the word frond was foreing to me. (actually al the words in your post is foreign as I am Afrikaans speaking 🙂 . There is an amazing delicacy to your sweetgrass and dew, enhanced by the vignette but the age textured rock is my favorite (alternatively you can paste Jewel’s comment here ………..)

    • 😊Both Jewel and I thank you Abrie LOL. I am always impressed by those who write and comment in a second language. Especially those who, like you, use humor to make a point. Thanks for stopping by

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  5. A beautiful picture you paint with these photos, quotes and your words. I have to agree 100% with your view that “Jack of all Trades, Master of None ~ is not such a terrible thing after all…” it allows freedom to pursue what is on our mind at different points in time 🙂 Wishing you a great finish to the summer and continued success with your photography. I enjoyed “Autumn’s Victim” as it is a reminder that my favorite time of the year is right around the corner. Cheers to a great day!

    • Randall! So happy to see you pop up. Have been wondering how you’re doing wherever you are these days. Hope to see one of your beautiful pieces soon

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  6. I’d like to believe Tutu’s statement but it’s hard to be that optimistic these days. Still, I agree with you that more time spent focusing on what’s right in the world might benefit us all.
    I like the abstract notions of texture in the quotes here, mixed with very concrete textures you found in nature – I particularly love that rock!

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