Canvas Joy

I just returned from an "Artist's Weekend" in beautiful St. Petersburg, Florida.  I was invited to join a friend and another artist at my friend's condo overlooking a bay in Florida.  So, you don't know me that well yet, but, believe it or not, I can get realllllly comfortable with the status quo, and sometimes, the explorer's perspective is a bit of a reach.  Still, I admire this friend and, from our electronic communication and the jubilant smile of this "soon-to-be-friend," I decided to make the trip!

The weekend was glorious-- yes, the Florida sun was bright and intense, the beach and bay were clean and inviting, and the camaraderie and conversation couldn't be beat!  As we discussed logistics for our "art extravaganza," we decided that we needed a theme linking our work and our journeys.  It wasn't long that we discovered that our "initiations" into our craft was inspired by a parent.  My father has been gone for close to 20 years, yet his spirit and his passion for photography live on in me.  And, for my new friend, it was a gift to her mother that resulted in my friend's discovery. 

It reminds me of Joseph Campbell's work (The Hero's Journey), where the hero is met by a series of guides and sages to help him/her along their journey and deal with their trials and tribulations.  We each had a guide to bring us closer to our dreams.

We also discovered, as with so much in life, that what was motivating us, was not the money, but more the inspiration and spiritual difference it might make to those who view our art.  Today's world is filled with fear, anxiety, and what Ben Zander would call: "downward spiral thinking."  Art can help illuminate what is possible.........  what we can create, to bring positive energy and hope to all.......    

That's a gift well worth my time, energy and passion!  Stay tuned for our artist debut!!

Comments welcome!

Have you ever had moments when exactly the message you were searching for became evident during the course of your day, in the most unexpected moments?  That's what happened to me yesterday when I attended the amazing funeral service of Dr. Bryan G. Rowe.

I didn't know Bryan until yesterday but I work with one of his brothers and had learned of his untimely death through a work notification. I have a great deal of respect for my co-worker, which only grew as I sat and listened to the amazing tribute paid to Dr. Rowe.

Bryan was an amazing musician, a sensitive and brilliant man, with a very giving heart.  The faith and values of achievement, family, community, and love were evident throughout the service.  I am continually amazed at the strength and courage of those who are grieving so great a loss, to be able to stand composed, in front of a congregation and utter words of prose, reflection, humor and encouragement.  Bryan's immediate and extended family did just that, along with soul-inspiring musical interludes, that included the performances of nieces and nephews!

Amongst their many pleas to the congregation was to go home, or return to work, wherever your friends and loved ones may be, and hug them, tell them you love and appreciate them, and cherish the moment.....  as you never know when that moment may be taken away from you.

Wise words............   and I did just that!!

I welcome your comments.