I am Learning to See – Original Oil Painting

Medium  ·  Oil on panel

Dimensions  ·  45 x 60 cm (24 × 24 in)

Signed  ·  On the back

In this painting, I wanted to explore the idea of identity as something fragile, shifting, and deeply personal. Inspired by the writings of Rainer Maria Rilke, the painting reflects my interest in the slow process of becoming more aware of both the inner and outer world.

Rather than creating a traditional portrait, I approached Rilke as a psychological presence. Layers of color and fragmented bands of light move across the face like passing thoughts, memories, or moments of realization. The image appears to emerge and dissolve simultaneously, mirroring the instability of self-perception and the constant process of inner change.

The title comes from a passage in Rilke’s writing in which he describes learning to truly see for the first time. That idea resonated deeply with me. The painting became a meditation on attention, vulnerability, and the quiet transformation that can occur when we begin to look more honestly at ourselves and the world around us.