On this day in 1606, renowned artist Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn was born in the town of Leiden in the Dutch Republic, now known as the Netherlands.
Few artists have been more celebrated and revered. Whereas many of his notable works remain in Amsterdam at the Rijksmuseum, selected works hang in the most respected museums and galleries on the planet, including the Louvre in Paris, the National Gallery of London, the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, and the Metropolitan Art Museum in New York.
His artistry spanned the three fields of painting, drawing, and printmaking during the Dutch Golden Age. His genre and themes included portraits, landscapes, Biblical, historical and mythological scenes. His favorite subject – himself. Throughout his career, Rembrandt painted numerous self-portraits which serve as a unique historical record of the artist. He was, in short, the original selfie artist.
Introspection and self-awareness can be a valuable tool. A strong leader knows his or her own strengths, and seeks to hone and leverage them. Likewise, one should seek to improve upon known weaknesses, while surrounding yourself with others who possess strengths that can supplement areas where you might fall short. Such an approach can lead to great results for your business or organization.
So the next time someone says to you, “You’re no Rembrandt,” you might consider replying “no, but I’m trying to learn from him – and myself.”