"هدف الفن هو تمثيل المعنى الداخلي للأشياء وليس مظهرها الخارجي."

The essence of this quote is that art isn't just about creating a perfect replica of what our eyes see. Instead, it's about conveying deeper meanings, emotions, and truths that lie beneath the surface. Imagine looking at a portrait, not just seeing a face but feeling the person's story, their struggles, their joy. That’s what true art aims to capture—the soul of the subject, not just the skin.

This idea isn't new. Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher, originally expressed this thought. In his time, art was expected to be more than decoration or a simple reflection of nature. It was supposed to stir something inside the viewer, to provoke thought and feeling. Fast forward to today, and this principle still holds strong. Think of Van Gogh’s "Starry Night". The swirling skies aren’t a photographic depiction, but they evoke a sense of wonder, chaos, and beauty all at once.

Let’s bring this concept to life with a real-world example. Imagine an art class where students are asked to paint a tree. One student, Alex, meticulously paints every leaf, every bark detail, so it looks exactly like the tree outside. Another student, Jamie, paints the same tree but uses bold colors and sweeping strokes. Jamie’s tree might not look like the real one in your backyard, but it feels like a tree from a dream or memory. It evokes the peace of sitting under it on a summer day or the awe of watching it sway in a storm. Jamie’s painting captures the essence of the tree—its inward significance.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life, even if you’re not an artist? Start by looking beyond the surface. Whether you’re writing a story, giving a presentation, or just talking to someone, think about the deeper message or feeling you want to convey. If you’re a photographer, don’t just snap what you see—try to capture the moment’s mood or the subject’s character. If you’re a teacher, don’t just relay facts—connect them to real-life experiences that resonate with your students.

Let me tell you a story. Picture Sarah, a young woman who loves to bake. She could follow recipes to the letter, producing cakes that look flawless but taste just okay. One day, she decides to bake a cake for her grandmother’s birthday. Instead of sticking strictly to the recipe, she adds a touch of cinnamon because it reminds her of her grandmother’s kitchen. She doesn’t worry too much about the cake’s perfect appearance. When her family eats it, they’re not just tasting cake—they’re tasting memories, love, and warmth. That’s the cake’s inward significance.

In your daily life, strive to see and express the deeper meanings. It’s not just about doing things perfectly or making them look good. It’s about infusing what you do with your experiences, emotions, and unique perspective. Whether you’re creating art, building relationships, or pursuing your passions, remember that what lies beneath the surface is often the most powerful and meaningful part.