I love the blend of tension and unity that happens when flora and fauna embrace within a consistent context. Here, the physical strength of stone is the conceptual and visual base for the shell (and shelter) of the turtle, as well as the textural ground for a flowering of life. Whether aided by six legs, a pair of wings, luminescent scales, a sly slithering, or an instant ability to disappear within a fortress of armour, these creatures are endowed with context-driven content: the very apparently designed ability to work optimally within their own inhabited space.

This engagement with space happens at a much more complex level when men and women get involved. Our faculties of reason and faith imply a responsibility towards context, whether it be urban, rural, or otherwise wild. Sometimes our actions respect, sometimes they colonize our contexts: but all too often they leave behind such oily mud-puddles as these, which facilitate the dim scowl in a turtle’s reflection. So if these colour choices bother you as much as they bother me, let’s live as shepherds, and not squanderers of earthly space.

Shalom.

Turtle, turle – Large

Conversation was the thing I valued most about showing on James North, as well as at the McMaster Museum of Art. The images have created in these spaces a unique opportunity for me to connect with people in a particular kind of dialogue. Aesthetics and process were always a part of these moments of mutual understanding, but an engagement with the abstract, and a searching for memory, spirit, and God have always been present too. It is my hope that in continuing to show in a shared space – with others also on the wall – that the vibrancy might continue. The exhibition here advertised is part of "The Self Proclaimed Artist Show", a group exhibition, opening on Saturday May 9th, at Sealed Art on 89 Gage Avenue South, in Hamilton. I’m not sure if I actually want to "proclaim" anything. But I hope you will proclaim your presence.
H