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Resilient

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I was beautifully encouraged at a recent Time Magazine article titled, “We Will Handle It” on how women of color have responded to the hunger crisis that is currently happening in our Country.  Of course, this unfortunate reality has existed way before COVID 19 wrought its ugliness on us https://time.com/collection/women-covid19-pandemic/5942123/women-solve-hunger-us/.  Kudos to Time for dedicating a March double issue including this and other amazing stories on how women all over the world have been impacted and how their responding in the midst of a global Pandemic.

But, are we surprised, really?  I’m not!  As a woman of color, I strongly embrace my culture that has known nothing but challenges to our survival, well-being, etc. Yet, we continue to find creative ways to be resilient.  This is what we do, period!  As I write this, my heart is overjoyed and cheeks hurting (from cheesing too much) because I am reminded how this strength unifies us in many ways not always known.  Women of color may well be the inventors of repurposing, reusing, and possessing the ability to make something out of nothing.  Be mindful that creativity is not to be relegated only to the arts.  Look around you to notice the things that are being done proactively; without waiting for permission.  Although we may not always have the resources budgeted by or approved by the Government or other entity, we always find a way to forge ahead—without fear.  Your thoughts and comments welcome!

No Fear

Unknown Beauty

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Sometimes the beauty around us can found in the unknown.  To me, beauty is often seen in the ethereal, sublime, mysterious, bewildering, breath-taking, and other-worldly.  Insight gained from accepting “the other” can take us to another place where we can find we are able to deal with almost anything.  Although acknowledging that ugliness in this world has its purpose; it does not to pull at us or detract from what matters most.  It can be challenging to choose to look beyond and see true beauty sprouting in everyday situations.

My eyes constantly search for the simple things—acts of love that can go unnoticed if I stay on the surface. What can be discovered from digging deeper, finding more? Perhaps in doing so we can position ourselves to look beyond what we’ve grown accustomed to.  I continue to appreciate the personal growth realized in chasing after the unknown! 

Crimson Paradise
Stingray in Flight

Beyond the Image!

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Art is unashamedly political and while some people prefer emulate the ostrich’s approach to solving problems, the truth is that art is more than its obvious imagery.  There is nothing wrong with aesthetics and beauty.  However, art must go beyond aesthetics to have deeper meaning; its layers must say more than what is on the surface.  I believe in the importance of street art or public art that serves to inform and create accessibility to those who may never get an opportunity to visit a museum or gallery.  What is the motivation of an art activist who uses the medium of art to communicate their passionate views on social issues?

What can art spaces offer to people who have no voice?  Can it promote agency where freedom of expression is accepted?  Who gives the freedom—artist or viewer?  Said another way, “While I may not understand what you’re saying if I slow down long enough to engage in or meditate on it, I may find space to be open and accepting.”