"Un peintre devrait commencer chaque toile par un lavis de noir car toutes les choses dans la nature sont sombres sauf là où elles sont exposées par la lumière."

The heart of this quote is about starting with the dark to better appreciate the light. It’s like saying, "Begin with the shadows so you can see the light more clearly." This isn't just about painting but about life and perspective. Imagine a blank canvas. By starting with darkness, any light you add becomes more striking, more defined. It’s a powerful way to create contrast and depth.

Historically, this approach was a technique employed by many classical painters. They would prime their canvases with a dark base layer—often black or a deep, rich color. This method helped them create a more realistic depiction of light and shadow. They understood that in nature, shadows and dark areas dominate. Only where light strikes does the true form emerge. Renaissance artists like Caravaggio were masters of this technique, using dramatic lighting to add intensity to their work.

To see how this applies practically, let’s look at a real-life example. Consider a photographer who prefers shooting at dawn or dusk. Why? Because the light during these times—the "golden hour"—is softer, creating longer shadows and giving more depth to the scene. The interplay of dark and light at these times can make an ordinary scene extraordinary. The shadows highlight the details that would be invisible in the harsh midday sun.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? Think about your challenges and hardships as the dark base layer. They’re your starting point. Without them, the bright moments—the achievements, the joys—wouldn’t stand out as much. When you face a setback, consider it the dark underpainting. It’s laying the groundwork for you to appreciate the light when it comes. If you’re struggling at work, that’s your darkness. When you finally get that promotion or finish that tough project, the satisfaction will shine so much brighter against the backdrop of your earlier struggles.

Imagine Sarah, a young woman who just moved to a new city for a job. Everything feels overwhelming—the loneliness, the new responsibilities, the city’s vastness. That’s her wash of black. She could easily see this darkness as the whole picture. But she keeps going, finding small moments of light. A friendly neighbor, a successful presentation, a weekend exploring the city. Each light moment stands out sharply against her initial loneliness and fear. Over time, her canvas fills with more light, but it’s the dark beginning that gives her journey its depth and beauty.

So, when you’re starting something new or facing a tough situation, remember: Begin with the darkness. Don’t shy away from it. Embrace it. It sets the stage for the light to be more brilliant. Whether you’re painting, taking photographs, or just navigating life, this principle can help you see the beauty in contrast and appreciate the bright spots even more. It’s all about perspective. By starting with the dark, you give yourself the chance to truly see the light when it comes.