When I chose the title for “The Spirit of Resilience” exhibition I thought about the word and what it means to me. I believe that resilience is an inner strength that enables one to move forward in spite of adversity, obstacles and challenges. In humanity and the natural world, we observe resilience as how living organisms defy threats, errors, failures and environmental changes. They often evolve to become stronger and more empowered and triumphant than before.
In these times of strife, uncertainty, chaos and fear, I believe the spirit of resilience will see us through. “The Spirit of Resilience” will present a wide variety of works of art by at least 40 artists from around the world that communicates the spirit and power of resilience — in the human experience and in the natural world. We’re seeking both literal, realistic interpretations as well as abstract interpretations. We look forward to inspiring our visitors.
As the curator, I asked extraordinary art professionals to serve as panelists on the Special Recognition Art Awards committee. You can read about them, their professional background, criteria and description of their awards on this page “The Spirit of Resilience Special Awards”. When they accepted my invitation to participate, I asked them to share a statement about what “resilience” means to them. ~ Renee Phillips
Karen Johnston
To me, resilience is an experience. It comes after a war is waged either internally or externally. It springs from a place deep inside that recognizes the bottom yet chooses to look up. It is a persistent walk forward in the face of adversity. As an artist, instructor, cancer survivor, and leader of a healing ministry, resilience is the result of a buoyant mind-set. Whether in art or health, or using art to heal, it is empowering to find that space within self to keep going despite trial. Having the privilege to walk beside others, through their storms and seasons of healing and learning, not only grants me the chance to share vital sparks of momentum, but also instills a deep sense of gratitude and purpose, propelling me onward.
Janet Jordan
“Never has there been a better time in our world to consider resilience. Adversity comes in all forms, but a worldwide pandemic is the extreme. It shines a spotlight on our own fragility and begs reflection on our ability to cope. As an emergency physician, I encounter other’s adversities on a daily basis. However, I have learned more about resilience as an artist.”
“We all know those elusive qualities of an artist. The best way to know their inner world is to look at their art. Because artists are “feelers” and empaths, one might naturally assume they are lacking when it comes to resilience. But the tools an artist draws on every day are precisely those same qualities that build resilience. With sensitivity comes a deeper appreciation for the beauty of life and mindfulness. Their locus of control is internal rather than external. Artists are risk takers and orchestrators of their own fate. The choice to perceive an event as a hardship or an opportunity for growth invariably leads the artist down the path of growth and creation. These qualities are the building blocks of resilience.”
Karen Gutfreund
“I was once told ‘the strongest trees grow in the harshest environments.’ I think of the majestic, twisted cypress trees that grow on the windswept coast of Big Sur and in turn, these wild, gnarled trees remind me of wise elders. The wind may howl and bend the branches but they will not break and only be more beautiful for it.”
“This imagery reflects resilience and the needed character, courage and fortitude in these challenging times. It is standing on the precipitous, uncertain of what is to come next, but taking a deep breath and moving forward anyway—being an agent of change, accessing and sustaining positive emotion, finding and reflecting on the beauty still around us.”
Barbara Markoff
“Undoubtedly, these are extremely tough times when our health and livelihood may be put on the line. As an art consultant and nature photographer I am accustomed to working alone, but for many the separation from work, family, and friends is quite difficult and overwhelming.”
“For me, resilience and persistence go hand in hand, and these two qualities have most definitely helped me achieve business success and remain positive in these uncertain times. I choose to be resilient, as I choose positivity and persistence. In business, ‘things happen for a reason.’ When my art consultation proposal or photographs are rejected for a project, I find out why and use that information to make a stronger presentation the next time. Resilience to me is like a shield or state of being that protects me from negativity so that I can carry on with business and more importantly all beautiful things life has to offer.”
Visit the About “The Spirit of Resilience” Exhibition page
Visit the Special Recognition Art Awards Page
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