A longtime friend was also a gifted artist. As I reflect on his work, I find myself in a recurring place of wonder. I know I enjoy contemporary art while many others do not. My admiration is not a blanket response to the genre, rather it applies to a smaller group of artists within the community. With this artist, every one of his pieces took me to a place I did not expect or imagine.
I enjoy my ongoing bafflement. Early on, I let go of any expectations I would understand how he painted and constructed the pieces along with why he did what he did. This opened myself up to a journey of wonder, discovery, and new ways of seeing the world around me. In a world where it is far too easy to categorize and put frames around those we meet, my lessons in the journey with this artist include the following.
When one parks one’s expectations, preconceived ideas, and historical views at the door, entering a gallery to see and experience a show represents a step into a new world where anything is possible. It is important to meet the artist on neutral ground and in a space where the art stands on its own. This goal is not about bringing an artist into your world. It is an invitation to join the artist in her/his world, to experience their story.
Letting go of how the artist accomplished her/his tasks, creates a window through which the artist can share the pieces with you, if only for a time. I love taking my initial period of silence with a piece and moving with it into a conversation with the artist. Sharing what I felt and saw along with the feelings the piece left written on my heart was my way of saying thank-you.
To John, thank-you. Through your art, I saw Divinity differently. In the chaos of a life shared, I heard the echo of the psalm; “Our Lord is great, with limitless strength; we’ll never comprehend what he knows and does.” (Psalm 147.5)
