The Giving Hand
- April Gavin
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
"If you hold your hand closed, nothing good can come in. The open hand is blessed, for it gives in abundance, even as it receives." - Biddy Mason
I mentioned in my last post (sorry it was months ago) that I would attempt an art piece every month somehow Michael inspired. Here are two...
Michael surrounded his work spaces with little altars. Usually hands in various states of open-ness. My inspiration was a print from one of Michael's altars. I traced my hand directly on the lino and then created shapes and images that spoke to me of abundance. The abundance that comes from an open hand.
There was none of the planning I usually do. Just time in my studio remembering him.
The analogous colors though surprised me. I had wanted bolder, warmer colors, but the work veered in this direction. I didn't argue - much.
Hearts figured heavily in his work. I often thought of the heads, hearts, hands methodology of learning when I experienced Michael's art. "The Ponder Heart" is a companion piece. Some people's hearts are like this - abundant.
My own work also wanted to be made.
The world feels like this right about now, yes?
We are all in this inadequate sail boat in big, choppy seas working like mad to direct the wind toward the light.
Should we make shelter at the light, the big, choppy seas continue to pound. We may feel safe but this feeling is illusory, because the light is also in peril.
Then, there is this feeling...
I dreamed this. I drew this. I printed it. It didn't turn out how I thought it would and that's a good thing.
And, while I was at it. I took a letterpress class at Compound Gallery. It's offered regularly, if you want, you can play too.
See you next time...
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