앙리 마티스. Henri Matisse.

Back in my school days, there was a time when I was deeply drawn to Courbet and Corot.

However, as I’ve entered my senior years and time continues to flow, I find my perspective on art shifting noticeably—from representational to abstract, from realism to a preference for pure and simple compositions that express joy and fulfillment, like the Fauvist works of Matisse.
I often wondered why this change was happening.

It turns out that as we age, our brains tend to favor more efficient information processing.
Simple and clear compositions with vivid colors reach us more intuitively and elicit quicker sensory responses.

Additionally, our perception of fundamental beauty evolves.
Rather than focusing on narratives or storytelling, we begin to feel a deeper emotional resonance with pure forms, colors, and harmony itself—something I deeply relate to.

I also realize that Eastern aesthetics, which value empty space and the depth within simplicity, have subtly influenced me over time.

It’s fascinating to see how, as we age, we naturally seek to eliminate the unnecessary and focus only on the essential—and how this mindset is reflected in the way we appreciate art as well.

Feeling grateful today, as always!