A while back I talked about a project we are working on at the non-profit where I work. Volunteers had gone into the local jail to work with the inmates on creating art and writing. We asked community artists to choose one of their pieces and create a response, a companion, to it. The completed works will be exhibited side by side in our gallery in a few weeks.
I had chosen a writing from an inmate who had found a crumpled brown leaf in their cell. They remarked at how odd it was to find a piece of nature in their hi-tech, sanitary environment. I couldn't help but ponder how I might manage if I were far removed from nature.
This was my response.
I would have to hold nature inside me, somehow.
If I were denied it, if I were contained, I would still contain it inside me.
Needle-felted wool inside an old wood cigar box.
For those of you in the area, do not miss this exhibit.
It opens Thur, Sep 25th at 8:30 in the Q Gallery in Brainerd, MN and runs through October 11th.
10 comments:
This is a beautiful response to your inmate's poem. Will he be able to see the exhibit?
Oops, of course. First at the jail and then in the gallery. :) What a *really* wonderful project. This may be the key to turning someone's heart for good. <3
What you have created is so beautiful and speaks volumes.
Hi Lisa-What a great project! I love your response. Nice that people r finding a way to connect with people in jail. They are not all bad people, and they still are people. You must be very proud to be apart of this project.I hope your inmate gets to see what you have made!
Wonderful!! Wish I were closer, this show is going to be amazing! 8*)
I love this piece, totally love it.
(You are braver than I am, to explore this idea and interpret your own reaction as a lovely creation. I honestly can't even let myself imagine being physically separated from the natural world.)
This is beautiful, Lisa. It should find its way to the inmate for comfort.
S - I hope he will see it, but I can't be sure. Some of the inmates have moved on to bigger facilities, treatment facilities, or have been released. I hope to be able to have photos taken of the entire exhibit though so everyone can see it online.
What is interesting is that when I first made my piece for this show it was quite different. I had focused on the brown crumpled leaf and made one out of wool. I then trapped it under stitches. And it wouldn't speak to me. It didn't feel right even though it fit the theme of the poem. I finally ripped it all out and just responded openly. Then this piece came out and it felt right.
Beautiful. A window into your heart, I think.
Loving this stunning piece, and the project sounds so great ! Great work, my friend ! xoxo
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