Redtree Times

To persons standing alone on a hill during a clear midnight such as this, the roll of the world is almost a palpable movement. To enjoy the epic form of that gratification it is necessary to stand on a hill at a small hour of the night, and, having first expanded with a sense of difference from the mass of civilized mankind, who are disregardful of all such proceedings at this time, long and quietly watch your stately progress through the stars.

― Thomas Hardy, Far From the Madding Crowd

There’s often a dichotomy in art that illustrates our connection to all of humanity– our commonality with all things– while at the same time pointing out our own uniqueness and sense of difference. 

It’s a delicate dance that requires a cooperative balance between the two, with neither dominating and each strengthening the other.

Having a sense of our value as individuals brings a depth of understanding and an acceptance of others that enhances our connection with our humanity.

And recognizing that connection brings a sense of humility that keeps us from thinking that, even though we perceive our own uniqueness, we are any more special than the next person in line at the grocery store. 

I think art can do this; make you feel both common and special at once.

Both part and apart.

And I think that is something that we need. It’s easy to see what happens when people feel too much of one or the other, when people begin to believe that they are unimportant– faceless and voiceless– while others believe they are above all others in every way.

It is hopelessness and hubris. The delicate dance falls apart.

That’s a lot to see in a what seems like a quiet and peaceful painting on its surface. But that is how I read this new painting, Far and Away. For me, it is about that delicate dance of connection and apartness. About finding the balance and rhythm between the two and losing yourself in the dance.

You might not see it that way. That’s okay. Some dances aren’t for everybody. 

Far and Away is 18″ tall and 6″ wide on canvas. It is currently at the West End Gallery where it is waiting to be hung on the gallery walls later this week as part of my solo show, Guiding Light. The exhibit opens next Friday, October 17 with an Opening Reception that runs from 5-7 PM.

Here’s an obvious choice for a song to go with the painting and the words at the top from Thomas Hardy. This is Moondance from Van Morrison from 1970, a mere 55 years ago.