Artist Statement: Flower Impressions & Flower Wisdom
The impressionistic form these flowers have created are
exaggerations of Nature’s rainbow. Every color is an optical illusion of
multiple rays of light, varying in wavelength and color. These emulations of
light are meant to beckon you into the canvas. These pieces are emphatic,
intentionally. This series is the first aspect of my journey with flowers,
their color, and beauty. In basic form, they are an excellent reflection of the
spiral, nature’s double helix, per se. The spiral form dominates in the
foundations of a plethora of living things. It is the balance of two
directions, two extremities, infinitely moving within and without,
simultaneously. Like a bee hypnotized by the whirl of aroma exiting the center
of that delicate unfolding, I found myself enthralled by the symbolism and
simplicity of the flower. Its vitality filling me with humility, compassion,
and inspiration.
The flower has long been seen as a reflection of feminine
energy and divine geometry. Its spiral movement, in growth, is exquisitely
balanced and harmonic. The eastern school of thought sees life as being
dualistic, calling this yin/yang, the male and female aspects of existence.
It’s truth is evident in all life. The male shape is the cube or square. The
female shape is the sphere or circle. The spiral is the meshing of these two
powers as one, co-existing.
The
delicacy and temporal nature of a flower teaches us compassion, love of
simplicity, humility, and acceptance. It reminds us that we are reborn, like
flowers, each day, week, or year. When something, someone, some event, impacts
our lives, we are changed. We intend to grow as a result of this experience. In
this way, we use the teachings flower has given us. Plants all around us have
teachings and symbolism. If you are interested in further research:
“Nature-Speak”, by Tim Andrews, is an excellent reference.
Inspirational Poem
The Story of a Flower
By:
Nancy Wood
In the season of wild strawberries
I came from the earth as a flower
High on a hill above my village, with only
The Eagle, the Buffalo, the Bear, and the Butterfly
To watch the petals of my spirit unfold.
The Eagle spoke first. He said:
Sister
you will never have wings like me,
Except
in the pathways of your dreams,
Yet
you will fly to the top of the sky
Because
I give you the Gift of Courage.
The Buffalo spoke next. He said:
Sister,
you will never survive a long time like me,
Except
on the trail of your memories,
Yet
you will see a thousand winters go by
Because
I give you the Gift of Endurance.
The Bear spoke next. He said:
Sister
you will never know the secrets
Of
the four-legged animals, since you are only a flower,
Yet
the knowledge of all creatures is yours
Because
I give you the Gift of Wisdom.
The Butterfly spoke next. She said:
Sister,
you believe you are very important,
Because
the creatures have given their gifts to you,
Yet
here on this hill you will always be at home
Because
I give you the Gift of Humility.
So I have lived many seasons,
Among the Eagle, the Buffalo, the Bear, and the Butterfly,
Watching the birds go by, speaking to rain and sky.
