Hometown Hero— Now at Principle Gallery, Alexandria
Times of heroism are generally times of terror, but the day never shines in which this element may not work.
–Ralph Waldo Emerson, Heroism, 1841
I wanted to write a bit about the new painting at the top, Hometown Hero, which is an 18″ by 36″ canvas that is part of my exhibit of new work that opens this coming Friday at the Principle Gallery. There was something about this piece that spoke of the kind of everyday heroism that takes place in many different locations throughout the world.
As Emerson points out, we think of heroism in times of terror or war but does not have to be confined to those times. Heroism is just as effective and important anywhere, anytime.
There is always the need for a hometown hero.
I’m not talking about running into burning buildings or pulling babies off the tracks before a speeding train, though those are certainly worthy heroic efforts. I’m talking about the simple heroism that comes from acts of kindness and compassion to those people we encounter on an everyday basis.
We all rightfully admire the hero on the big stage– in wars and disasters– but the hometown hero often has much greater impact. A generosity of spirit, an attitude of tolerance and a willingness to understand the circumstances of others go a long way in making the lives of those in our communities better.
A helping hand and a caring heart can elevate an entire community.
And that’s what I see in this piece, the Red Tree here serving as an aspirational symbol attempting to elevate the village around it.
You may something completely different and, as always, that’s okay.
I am playing one of my favorite songs again today. The song is Heroes from the late great David Bowie. This is a version from the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain that I last shared her about 5 or 6 years ago. It’s a wonderful performance, respectful and true to the song.
I have had solo exhibits at the Principle Gallery in Alexandria, VA every year of the 21st century, beginning in 2000. Passages, my 24th such show, opens this Friday, June 9, with an opening reception that goes from 6 until 8:30 PM. I will be in attendance this year and hope you can stop in to see the show, say hello and maybe chat for a few minutes.
Redtree Times 