I have recently noticed my image “tastebuds” have kind of changed and evolved since I initially created the blog and started puzzling on a regular basis. Here’s what I mean…

I have always been drawn to the big four image categories I’ve mentioned in previous posts — Christmas / wintery; dogs; cats; buildings as my go to images when considering a puzzle for purchase. I am still very drawn to those go to’s and I don’t see that changing much over time; however, I have noticed something different recently.

I am starting to be drawn toward more simplistic images that are less detailed / cluttered than before. Think Aimee Stewart — I love her artwork, but they are typically very busy and detailed which I do still really enjoy, but I’m discovering now that sometimes a less chaotic image appeals to me more. Here are a couple of examples from recent purchases.

I wouldn’t consider either of these images overly chaotic and finely detailed, but both are pleasant to the eye without having too many little things to focus on at once. Does any of that make sense? These two seem way “calmer” to me than say the Disney-Pixar Toy Store puzzle I had started and quit on earlier this year, and I’m finding myself drawn to these images more than I ever did in the past.

Another area where my tastes have evolved over the years is with fine art type of puzzles which I never liked before at all. Now, some of them I really love. Still not a Gustav Klimt puzzle fan, but I do find a handful of Flemish artist, Pieter Brueghel, puzzles that I would love to do, and have even added a couple to my collection.

Curious if it’s just me or if you too have had a change in the type of images you like. Simpler, more detailed, lots of linear details in the image, etc.