Just out of a lavender-eucalyptus hot bath. The perfect way to end my open studio weekend. Thank you. Thank you! All my friends and neighbors made my holiday sale a huge success.

Our neighborhood, with luminaries lining the streets was magical, full moon and twinkling candles. For me the quiet, still beauty of a winter’s eve and neighbors walking is what the holidays are all about. Sharing a joyful moment with others.

What stands out to me  is this. Over Thanksgiving I did some collage. A new neighbor was interested in a piece, and I explained to her the inspiration and wording comes from my favorite Emily Dickinson poem. The words “hope is the thing,” is collaged onto the art along with rice paper and leaves. I quoted her the rest of the verse, and she said she was looking for a poem to read at her husbands funeral. This was a touching moment and reminded me of the healing quality of poetry.

She bought the art.

“Hope” is the thing with feathers-

That perches in the soul-

And sings the tune without the words-

And never stops – at all-

Emily Dickinson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Art Prescription: Sometimes words bring a different meaning to our daily round. Writing and reading poetry reaches us on a deep level…rhythm, metaphor, subtle…but in a moment catches your breath. Next time you journal write it in prose. Let your mind’s eye be your guide.