One of my favourite stories to share during my High School History of Art classes revolves around the ancient Classical Greek and Roman architecture. The Greeks were the pioneers of architectural development in the ancient world, dominating the scene for centuries and creating some of the most outstanding examples of timeless architecture. To this day, many buildings reference their ingenuity through various classical Greek elements.

THE BEAUTY OF GREEK PROPORTIONS

The mathematically ordered and beautifully proportioned structures of the Greeks were a result of their intuition and instinct for what a building should feel like. When the Romans came along, they were awestruck by the grand buildings of Greece. Armed with measuring tapes and rulers, they returned to Rome and meticulously rebuilt exact replicas of what they had seen, down to the last measured centimetre.

THE INSPIRATION OF IMITATION

It's no surprise that they copied the Greeks. We often find ourselves inspired by what we see, mimicking others in our own creative endeavors. However, there’s a notable difference between the two styles. When you step into a Roman temple, it feels cold and uninviting, while every Greek temple radiates warmth and soul. Art historians attribute this difference to the way the Romans relied on their measuring devices, whereas the Greeks approached their designs with an intuitive, instinctual sense of what was mathematically correct.The big difference, though, is that when you walk into a Roman temple, it is cold and uninviting, whereas every Greek temple has a warmth and a soul. Art historians have put it down to the way the Romans used their rulers and measuring devices, whereas the Greeks responded with an intuitive, instinctual feel for what was mathematically correct.

I often reflect on this distinction when I’m preparing to create a painting or sketch. Instead of reaching for a ruler or establishing a rigid grid that leaves no room for error, I strive to lean into my gut feeling regarding the shape and scale of a building or the perspective of a street. By allowing myself this freedom, I hope my artworks will possess more soul and life.

A FAR MORE REWARDING CREATIVE PROCESS

This approach not only enriches my artwork but also transforms the creative process into a more rewarding and enjoyable experience. Embracing intuition allows for a connection with the art that goes beyond mere replication, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and essence of what I am creating. Ultimately, it’s about capturing the spirit of the subject, much like the Greeks did with their remarkable architecture.