There are images from 17 artists in “What Are You Seeking? Expectations and Epiphany”, a call to consider the creative journey as we move forward through doubt and uncertainty to revelation and epiphany.
 Artists tolerate ambiguity in the search for expression and meaning. Each of the artists participating in this show has held duality as challenges arose. I applaud them for courage to create, persistence in executing and willingness to share.
The artistic process is a vote for life. Active engagement is necessary to organize ideas, plan how to carry them out, select materials, arrange the parts, use elements and principles of design, and ultimately show work. Alisa E. Clark has generously shared her experiences about the liminal spaces inherent in any good work of art through writing that accompanies her current entries as well as her websites and online recordings. In many ways, her work exemplifies the theme of this show as she lives her creative life as epiphany, finding revelations in the process, product and sharing of her work.
Well suited to this format is the digital design work of Linda Witte Henke and Mary Jane Miller. Lens-based images such as those of Sally Brower, Nancy Schofield or Catherine Kerr translate well. Other media represented through photography here will need some prior knowledge to be more fully appreciated. Viewers are encouraged to imagine the subtleties of Karen Loew’s monotypes, one-of-a-kind prints which are rich in textures.
Each of the artists included in this show have recognized their self-worth, creativity and call as an artist. Some, like Claudia Smith, work with a steady certainty, naturally creating in harmony with the majesty and oneness the artist sees and reflects. For Linda Witte Henke, “The journey never fails to help reacquaint me with what my spirit seeks.” Linda finds courage as she visualizes the pathway into the liturgical seasons, which ground, challenge and lead.
Several artists tell of working through difficult situations using the healing processes of making art. Jeanne Harris Weaver's tragic story of a mother’s grief transformed inspires as the image witnesses to her ability to tap into a strength to resurrect a previous image of horror into a thing of exquisite beauty. Mary Jane Miller’s icons juxtapose real-life scenes in thought-provoking ways.
By repeatedly asking three questions of visual thinking strategies, we can learn to understand the people represented here better. Those questions are: What is going on in this work? What supports that observation? What more can be seen? (vtshome.org) Because the ECVA is grounded in the love of Christ, respect for each individual as a beloved child of God is central to discussion.
There is value in reflecting on the personal connections to be made here. By spending time looking thoroughly at each entry, we will find friends.
Prayer: God, be born anew in our hearts, hands and minds.
Bless us as we use our gifts.
Lead us to revelation and insight;
encourage us to never stop learning, growing and accepting change.
Julie Bender- Guest Curator
Viewers will benefit from the accompanying Scavenger Hunt as a vehicle for exploring. Consider joining us for the online reception where a prize for participation will be presented. |
