T A B L E• O F• C O N T E N T S
Acknowledgements
Introduction
The introduction states the fundamental premise of the book: that most people take the act of seeing for granted; that they are largely unaware of the deeper potentials of human vision; and that seeing is a learned capacity, one that can be developed through initiative and effort.
Chapter I: On Perception
Opening the theme, the chapter addresses the vast potential found in human perception and outlines the developmental steps of increasing awareness. The author describes three stages of human consciousness in an accessible and inspiring manner.
Chapter II: Against the Pollution of the I
The title derives from an essay by French writer Jacques Lusseyran and examines the discordant conditions of modern life - and the need to leave space within the mind for seeing. The chapter opens the possibility of new forms of perception, where one may be transparent and fully receive the impressions of the outer world.
Chapter III: Two Worlds: the Dual Nature of Seeing
The world within, and the world without - perception takes place at the intersection of these two worlds. Seeing implies an awareness of both, and the chapter addresses the techniques of "including oneself" in the passage of energies between the world and one's inner life. It outlines the internal conditions that affect one's seeing and examines the difference between a reaction and a true response.
Chapter IV: The Role of the Body
The chapter highlights the wisdom and natural intelligence of the body and feelings. It gives guidance to help achieve a full and enveloping awareness, which includes a relationship with the physical body and a deepening connection to the senses. The author challenges the predominance of the mind in Western culture.
Chapter V: The Creative Response
The chapter relates the extensive teachings on awareness, visual perception and consciousness detailed and advanced by the photographer Minor White, founder of Aperture publications. This chapter grows out of the author's work with White on The Visualization Manual, an unpublished manuscript completed during the final year of White's life that summarized his insights derived from over forty years of teaching.
Chapter VI: Heightened Awareness: A Working Method
At the heart of the book, the author presents the core techniques taught by White and other researchers into creativity and perception, leading to a state of heightened awareness. The chapter delivers a comprehensive method.
Chapter VII: Tools and Techniques
The author provides a series of perceptual and creative exercises to assist readers in the growth of their awareness; divided into three sections: 1.) Voluntary Concentration 2.) The Eye and the Brain 3.) Observation.
Chapter VIII: The Courage to See
The chapter explores self-observation and observation of the world-at-large, emphasizing the need for a greater objectivity: to see what is - not how one wants things to be, thinks they should be, or hopes they might be. The author offers readers advice on connecting with conscience and explores recent developments in modern physics emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things, breaking down the subject/object split common in western modes of perception.
Chapter IX: Learning to See: Vision and the Creative Process
Learning to See explores the relationship between observation and the creative process. Anecdotes and short quotes from artists and writers enhance the text. The author give guidance toward the development of a heightened capacity for observation.
Bibliography