CALL & RESPONSE

My process centers around responding to nature and to the connection of being present in a place. To know a place so intimately that it becomes a companion. To be able to hear its call. It is out of that dialogue that begs me to paint the scene. It reminded me of the call and response rhythms in our lives. They happen in conversations, in music, in relationships, in liturgy at church, in poetry, but mostly for me in nature.

This show was especially invigorating since I have already done a body of work around Garden of the Gods. It made me push and find angles that were unique and nuanced. To see the garden as more than an acquaintance but as a dear friend, an “Anam Cara.” Anam Cara, is the celtic word for soul friend and also the written body of work about Celtic wisdom from John O’Donohue that put into words the beauty of light. The first chapter of his book, ‘Light is Generous,’ provides reflections on the mystery and color that light adds to our world. From flying over the Garden of the Gods, to rock climbing, to picnicking, these ancient rock formations continue to unveil new wonders as the light falls on their presences.