February
19, 2015
In
association with the North Carolina Museum of Art, the University of Mount
Olive offered a lecture on the artist, Audubon. While I have been interested in
birds for as long as I can remember, recently purchasing “Stokes Field Guide to
Bird Songs” for myself and a dear friend, the lecture and a YouTube Video from
the National Museum for Women in the Arts prompted an increased awareness and desire
to truly “know” birds. The video introduced me to Maria Sibylla Merian, an
artist from early 1700, who drew amazing images of plants, insects and
birds. Both artists valued direct observation and did so amazingly.
While
the meditation for today is abstracted, an important issue came to mind. As an
artist I appreciate all types of art work, some more than others. Yet, for me,
the act of closely observing anything is an important act of prayer. I believe
we never truly see anything or anyone unless we engage deeply. Constant
internalization creates a warped sense of the true nature of the world around
us, of ourselves, and in turn, our responsibilities as a part of Creation.
One
of the best ways to be so engaged is through drawing or painting. When I
closely observe a person, I know the person far better and in a meaningful,
spiritual way, as no other action on my part can afford me. Direct observation
is a spiritual practice for me, as it is for many now and has been throughout
history. Direct observation is a part of being still, sitting in the silence, and
being fully present. What better way to celebrate creativity than to celebrate
what has been created by the Great Creator and to create from that observation!
This is exciting for me! It is life enriching!
I
look forward to including some closely observed birds in my art work in the near
future!
Here
is the video I referenced as well as some information on Maria Sibylla Merian.
National
Museum of Women in the Arts YouTube Video
Maria
Sibylla Merian
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