Lessons from Art
I discovered this on the Internet - I am not sure where, nor do I know the name of the artist who created this. (Please let me know if you do so I can provide attribution).
I love this image for a number of reasons – it is so rich with lessons. Here are some that jump out for me. Please add yours by posting a comment.
1. It is simple – just a few brush strokes - less is often more.
2. It is elegant – elegance and grace are central themes in my new book The Spark, the Flame, and the Torch. What ever is elegant and graceful inspires.
3. It is timely – our examples, metaphors, teaching methods and theories need to be constantly revised and replaced in order to be relevant. Relevance is an essential ingredient for success.
4. It is subtle – notice the skin tones of the players. Blunt and abbrasive messages are the currency of earlier times. We are tired of being bludgeoned with marketing and teaching messages that wear us down. Instead, nuanced messages have greater potency because they will be listened to, while we tune out the loud noises.
What other metaphors for excellence, growth, spirit and inspiring leadership can you find in this image?
July 9th, 2010 at 9:19 am
I see respect. The red is taking care to not hurt the yellow and left him the ball.
July 9th, 2010 at 10:45 am
I see focus, determination, and a bit of competitive spirit. “Keep your eye on the ball,” as they say. Focused leadership is much more inspiring than leaders who lead from so high they can’t even see the ball as it constantly moves between players.
July 19th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Competition came to mind when I examined this awesome picture.
Two people aiming for the same goal. That goal being to win at the game.
July 25th, 2010 at 7:08 am
I see invitation – the yellow player has arms outstretched, inviting interaction – almost saying “come play with me”
I also see hesitancy on the red player – a reminder that as leaders we can’t assume that people are clear about what we’re up to, what we’re playing for, the rules of the game and we need to consistently speak it, be it and generate it!