Not 'What' but 'How'

If you are familiar with either me or my work, you know that this guy here - Mr. Jiri Harcuba - has been the single most influence on my artistic path. He has taught me not only about the art of engraving but also about the art of expression and the art living. 
In an ongoing discussion about art and the artists search for a meaningful subject, Jiri recently told me that it is not 'What' but rather 'How' (attributing this bit of advice to Goethe) that is the important concern . Jiri says, "People and the world around are always the same. ‘How’ we see it makes the difference. Of course, also ‘how’ we feel about it! You are saying through your eyes and your heart something new. We see the world new and different and beautiful in your way! That is your timeless contribution." 

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Thinking about Jiri's advice for me, I was reminded of my first two portrait engravings that I made in his class at Pilchuck Glass School, in 2003, when we first met.  To this day, Jiri maintains that these are my best engravings to date - Because I was a beginner and free and because I made my 'own way' with the wheels - it is 'How' and not 'What.