I am elated to be able to share that we wrapped up the main work from our fire, and that my in-house studio space is back up and running. This brings me incredible joy, and relief beyond words, and I am so deeply grateful to be making art again. The first piece to share is the result of a meditative exercise in which I let my mind be free of expectation of what was to emerge, and to let my hands bring the imagery into dimension. I worked in silence to let my mind be clear, and enjoyed the process of letting the colors flow from many layers of drawing and painting into new form. I really enjoyed working in this way, and will be exploring more like this in the future...
"Patterns in my Mind", (13 x 18 x 4.25 inches), 2016
The next sculpture came about after many hours visiting a grocery that carried food from around the world (made much more fun and interesting with the company of a dear old friend). I paused frequently to marvel at cuisine so different from my own. Coming upon these large cacti leaves (spines removed), I reflected on the sustenance they held... guarded treasure stored beneath their once-spiny exteriors. Like the life-saving water contained within, we also have inner resources to call on in times of need. Connecting with these parallels that lie within the natural world makes me feel more grounded in our shared world.
"Inner Resources", (13 x 18 x 8.5 inches), 2016
The third piece was inspired by a stand of yellow wildflowers growing in one of my favorite nature preserves. I was struck by how the flowers seemed to reach up to touch the sky, especially when viewed from the perspective of the ground. The contrast of the yellow and blue made such a beautiful balance, and seemed to be singing out the innate drive to embrace life in whatever ways we can.
"Touch the Sky", (12 x 26.5 x 5.5), 2016
Once again, I feel so fortunate to have art as an outlet, and this forum as a way to share it with others. Much appreciation is felt in the power of connection that comes from this interchange.