This quote suggests that art serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it completes what nature cannot elaborate, meaning it fills in the gaps where nature falls short. This could refer to the expression of emotions, ideas, or concepts that cannot be fully explained or embodied by natural phenomena. For example, nature might not be able to fully encapsulate the complexity of human emotions, but art – through painting, music, literature, and so on – can.

Secondly, it imitates nature, suggesting that art also serves as a reflection or representation of the natural world. Art can capture the beauty, chaos, and intricacies of nature in a way that allows us to appreciate it from different perspectives. This imitation is not just a copy, but a reinterpretation and representation that can highlight aspects of nature that we may not notice or appreciate in our daily lives.

In today’s world, this idea is still very relevant. With the advancement of technology, we are creating new forms of art that continue to fill in the gaps where nature cannot reach and imitate nature in innovative ways. For example, virtual reality art can create immersive experiences that mimic natural environments, or create completely new ones that go beyond the limitations of physical reality.

In terms of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a call to use our own creativity to both complement and reflect upon the world around us. Just as art completes and imitates nature, we can use our own skills and talents to fill in gaps in our own understanding and to reflect on our own experiences. This could mean developing a creative hobby, learning a new skill, or simply taking the time to appreciate and reflect on the world around us.