Clear Seeing Unlocks Inspiration

A day last week at the Art Institute of Chicago reawakened me. Sitting with my sketchbook in the space of great art—what Parker Palmer called “the vastness of great things, (1)” was a wonderful reminder that in order to settle out the noise and pressures of the day you need clear seeing and focus. Inspiration is always available; it takes intentional practice to re-perceive and unlock it.

At ActionCraft, we’re always using creativity in service of people seeking breakthroughs. Here’s to the art of “clear seeing—and doing.”

While I was sketching, I met a “street photography” student, Marty Field, who snapped a couple pictures, which I included in this visual scrapbook. Thanks, Marty, for enriching this story.

Ken Hubbell sketch of “Paris Street—Rainy Day” at the Art Institute of Chicago. — **A steady stream of curious of all ages crowd in to experience huge Impressionist paintings like “Paris Street—Rainy Day” at the Art Institute of Chicago.**

**Ken Hubbell drawing “Paris Street.” (Photo by Marty Field; marty@msfdsf.com)**

Ken Hubbell sketch of George Seurat’s famous picnic. — **George Seurat’s famous picnic captivated viewers who moved close to literally drink in the color.**

Ken Hubbell sketch of Van Gogh self portrait. — **Everybody wanted a picture with Van Gogh.**

Ken Hubbell sketch of Cezanne painting. — **Capturing the essence of Cezanne required careful looking past hungry art-lovers.**

Ken Hubbell sketch of Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Clouds Above Sky.” — **Georgia O’Keeffe’s monumental “Clouds Above Sky” filled up the hallway atrium.**

That’s the inspiration sketchbook for July. If you are interested in translating your challenges into inspired action or innovative products, contact kenhubbell@kenhubbell.com.

(1) “We embrace AMBIGUITY not because we are confused or indecisive but because we understand the inadequacy of our concepts to embrace the vastness of great things.” Parker Palmer, The Courage To Teach